Optimizing Microgrid Profits Through Automated P2P Energy Trading Using Blockchain and BESS

Abstract

The integration of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), such as rooftop photovoltaic (PV) systems and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), enables peer-to-peer (P2P) energy trading in microgrids, enhancing grid flexibility and optimizing operational management. This study presents an automated, blockchain-enabled framework for very short-term (VST) P2P trading, tested using Sri Lanka's tariff data to harness the economic and operational potential of decentralized energy systems. The Intelligent Prosumer Energy Node (IPEN) facilitates autonomous energy trading through real-time monitoring, VST demand forecasting, recommendations from the OpenDSS Demand-Side Management (O-DSM), and userguided decisions. Similarly, the Intelligent Consumer Energy Node (ICEN) autonomously executes trading based on power demand monitoring, forecasting, and O-DSM guidance. The blockchain network, built on Hyperledger Fabric, secures and transparently manages transactions across five organizations, supported by multiple channels and smart contracts. Three trading models, Feed-in Tariff (FiT), P2P without storage, and P2P with BESS, were evaluated across prosumer-to-consumer ratios of$25:75,50:50$, and$75:25$. Results show that automated P2P trading outperforms FiT, with BESS providing the highest economic gains. Prosumers achieved up to 35.1% higher profits, while consumers reduced costs by up to 15.2%, demonstrating the system's potential for scalable microgrid deployment.