Decentralized PV Distributed Generation Integrated with Blockchain Technology: A Case Study in Lagos

Abstract

The paper presents an investigation on energy trading through the secured blockchain energy-trading platform used by Nigerians. This is achieved by modelling and simulating a decentralized distributed solar photovoltaic (PV) generation network in the Lagos State of Nigeria that adopts blockchain technology as the energy-trading platform. The MATLAB/Simulink software was used to model and simulate a section of the Nigerian energy network, where PV distributed generation (DG) systems were installed in decentralized locations. Subsequently, the Python software was used to create an algorithm illustrating how the secured blockchain energy-trading platform should function. Then, the RETScreen Expert software was used to conduct the financial sensitivity and risk analyses of implementing this project in the Nigerian energy industry. The simulation study results showed that implementing a decentralized distributed PV generation network into the Nigeria energy system could improve the reliability and efficiency of energy generation and supply during different seasons of the year. It was also found that the blockchain energy-trading platform could serve as a source of income for some people.