Analysis of reservation price mechanisms in a peer-to-peer electricity trading system in the context of energy community

Technological advances and cost reductions combined with the need for greater environmental sustainability have led to new ways to generate, distribute and consume energy. In particular, peer-to-peer (P2P) power trading is an innovative method to permits energy exchange. It allows community members to bypass the old grid concept and it permits to purchase or to sell energy directly to each other’s. Peer-to-peer power trading has the potential to boost the sustainability and the efficiency of the electrical grid. In fact, it can improve renewable energy uses reducing transmission and distribution losses. The thesis is focused on the peer-to-peer energy trading system in the context of energy communities. In particular, this study include the feasibility of P2P trading in a small group, highlighting the potential revenues like energy efficiency, cost saving and environmental sustainability of the case study. To do that, it is used a combination of modelling and techno-economic analysis. The thesis presents a first part related to a deep study on the actual state of the art of P2P trading, including different system design possibilities. Secondly, it is examined the relevance of regulatory framework and market structure to create a prosper peer-to-peer power trading system. The thesis then presents an energy community case study that investigates the technological and economic viability of peer-to-peer trading in this context. This includes a detailed analysis of reservation prices and a mathematical model that replicates the operation of a P2P trading system. The results suggest that P2P trading can significantly reduce energy costs and increase the use of renewable energy compared to traditional configurations. The study compares the results of different reservation pricing scenarios using various cost attribution methodologies. Overall, this research provides valuable insights for scholars, industry stakeholders, and regulators working towards the development of P2P electricity trading networks. The study underscores the advantages of P2P trading in promoting the sustainability and efficiency of energy systems.