A Cost Analysis of Implementing a Blockchain Architecture in a Smart Grid Scenario Using Sidechains

Abstract

Smart grid systems have become popular and necessary for the development of a sustainable power grid. These systems use different technologies to provide optimized services to the users of the network. Regarding computing, these systems optimize electrical services by processing a large amount of the data generated. However, privacy and security are essential in this kind of system. With a large amount of data generated, it is necessary to protect the privacy of users, because this data may reveal the users’ personal information. Today, blockchain technology has proven to be an efficient architecture for solving privacy and security problems in different scenarios. Over the years, different blockchain platforms have emerged, attempting to solve specific problems in different areas. However, the use of different platforms fragmented the market, which was no different in the smart grid scenario. This work proposes a blockchain architecture that uses sidechains to make the system scalable and adaptable. We used three blockchains to ensure privacy, security, and trust in the system. To universalize the proposed solution, we used the Open Smart Grid Protocol and smart contracts. The results show that architecture security and privacy are guaranteed, making it feasible for implementation in real systems; although scalability issues regarding the storage of the data generated still exist.

Dynamic Adaptive Cross-Chain Trading Mode for Multi-Microgrid Joint Operation

“…Ochôa et al [33] described a cross-blockchain architecture that uses a protocol widely used in the smart grid scenario, supporting the implementation of this architecture on existing systems. The presented architecture provides security, reliability and privacy for users through the use of sidechain communication technology.…”

“…In Table 1, we list the applications of all current blockchain cross-chain interoperability technologies in the energy field, and compare their technical types, technical contribution and application scenarios. [32] 2019 Relays method Trust transaction Multiple energy transaction Ochôa et al [33] 2020 Sidechain Solving privacy and security problems Smart grid Firoozjaei et al [34] 2020 Hybrid blockchain Privacy-preserving and trustful Energy transaction in IOT platforms He et al [35] 2020 Sidechain Cross-system trading Joint operation of PV and carbon markets…”

Conceptual Assessment of Smart Meters Compatibility Levels

“…Open Smart Grid Protocol (OSGP) was created to complement EN 14908 [10] for utilities deploying multiapplication smart grid infrastructures and can be applied for different smart grid devices [11].…”

A Formal Analysis of the Mimblewimble Cryptocurrency Protocol

“…Sestrem et al [ 14 ] have pointed out the importance of privacy and security over Smart grid systems. They propose a sidechain architecture which is built up of three different blockchains.…”