Abstract
Blockchain and smart contract technology is advancing rapidly and, as many companies and industries are stepping up to adopt the technology, it is a worthy subject of research. This study presents a decentralized microgrid model that considers blockchain and smart contract technology. We consider a microgrid consisting of two players: a power distribution company (DC) and an electricity prosumer. The cost-benefit analysis of utilising blockchain and smart contract technology is assessed through an evaluation model for the two players. Further, to encourage the prosumer to generate renewable energy, a credit period that allows the prosumer to defer payments is provided by outside banks. A game-theoretical method is applied to analyse the decision-making by the two players, seeking to maximise their own profits. The DC acts as a leader who determines the electricity price and blockchain technology investment level, and the prosumer is a follower who determines how much renewable energy should be generated. The results show that the adoption of blockchain and smart contract technology benefits both the DC and prosumer in a decentralized microgrid. Further, several examples are provided to illustrate the model and obtain managerial insights.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.