A server-assisted secure blockchain model for residential demand response in smart grids

The paper proposes a two layered blockchain-based residential demand side management (DSM) scheme that integrates a secure centralized server, (Energy Plus) EnPlus, and a private Ethereum blockchain to deliver both real-time operational efficiency and distributed transaction trust. The architecture also allows secure and transparent peer-to-peer energy trading using (Green Energy Reward) GER Tokens, which are controlled through Solidity-based smart contracts. Computationally demanding tasks of load forecasting, bid-offer matching and policy enforcement are carried out in the EnPlus server. The authorization of prosumers is provided through Public Key Infrastructure where AES-256 encryption is used when data from smart meter collected and uploaded to server and SHA-256 hashing with RSA is used to provide data confidentiality and integrity. The shiftable appliances are scheduled through Firefly Optimization Algorithm in two conditions: DSM without P2P trading and DSM with P2P trading using tokens to reduce the energy costs. The validity of the system is brought out with a case study of 52 prosumers (25 real prosumers and 27 are part of the extended project) within the climatic conditions of Kolkata with each having a 2.5 kW rooftop photovoltaic system. This system offers better savings and reduces peak to average ratio. P2P trading has typical financial advantages and it will lead to local energy independence but there will be little delays in transactions because of the hybrid processing model. The protocol is proven to be highly scalable, privacy preserving, and robust that offers a viable roadmap to secure, decentralized residential energy markets.