Renewable Energy trading

Ideally, the policies and market structures that are currently evolving in the domestic energy market all point to the realization of a free trading market for renewable energy in the foreseeable future. Renewable energy trading has seen diverse implementations across the United States, Europe, and South Korea seems to follow in its footsteps.

All roads lead to the realization of peer-to-peer (P2P) energy trading between individuals, businesses, or organizations, allowing prosumers (producers and consumers of energy) to sell surplus renewable energy directly to other users, bypassing traditional utilities. Through this prosumer mechanism, consumers can purchase electricity at competitive rates, often lower than traditional utility prices, as there are no significant overhead costs, while prosumers with surplus energy renewable energy can generate additional income by selling electricity directly to neighbors or businesses. P2P in energy, thereby, promotes efficient use of locally generated renewable energy, reducing wastage and transmission losses. In terms of grid efficiency, real-time trading platforms can balance supply and demand efficiently, reducing strain on the grid during peak times. Utilization of DERs is, therefore, directly associated with the implementation of P2P energy trading since its utilization enhances the efficiency of DERs like rooftop solar and energy storage systems (ESS) enabling a more resilient and flexible energy grid.

Challenges and risks are associated with the implementation of P2P energy systems, since most regions still lack clear policies and market regulatory frameworks. Due to complexities in grid management, high penetration of P2P trading can complicate grid stability and coordination, requiring advanced technologies for grid integration, while digital platforms are integral to maintaining high levels of cybersecurity against hacking of the power grid.