Peer-to-Peer Energy Trading Using Blockchain in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

Peer-to-peer (P2P) energy trading using blockchain is presented as a great innovative potential to promote rural electrification. Opportunities and challenges assessment for the implementation of this technology in Sub-Saharan Africa shows that it is only at its embryonic stage in the region. The decreasing cost of stand-alone solar technology and the expansion of investment in mini-grid sector are among the opportunities. However, the considerable restriction of private participation in the mini-grid sector, the difficulty of the regulatory process and licensing requirements, the issues with tariff framework, and the uncertainty of the regulation about the future grid integration are among the main challenges. This chapter proposes a policy and regulation framework for the promotion of P2P energy trading using blockchain in Sub-Saharan Africa.