Publication

Abstract : The global energy landscape is undergoing a fundamental transformation from centralized generation to a decentralized sustainable energy system. This paradigm shift is primarily driven by the rapid proliferation of distributed energy resources (DERs) such as solar photovoltaics, wind turbines, battery energy storage, responsive real-time demand response, and energy management. The virtual power plant (VPP) concept has emerged as an advanced framework to integrate, coordinate, and optimize these diverse DERs, enabling them to operate as a unified, flexible power entity. However, conventional centralized power plants face many challenges in terms of scalability, trust, security, and transparent coordination among all operating units. Blockchain technology, with its decentralized ledger, immutability, and smart contract capabilities, offers a transformative solution to these limitations. When such revolutionary technology is integrated with VPPs, it facilitates transparent peer-to-peer (P2P) energy trading, Nega-watt trading, and kilo watt trading. Hence, such a blockchain-based VPP (BVPP) framework establishes a decentralized energy management system that ensures trustless coordination, data integrity, and real-time optimization of renewable assets. This chapter explores the architecture, operational mechanisms, and potential applications of BVPP in the context of futuristic power systems. It discusses how blockchain enhances energy democratization, fosters prosumer participation, and optimizes transactive energy models. Furthermore, it addresses critical technical, economic, and regulatory challenges such as scalability, interoperability, and governance and proposes viable solutions for large-scale BVPP deployment.