Business Model Evaluation for Peer-to-peer Energy Sharing Systems: Insights from Off-grid DC Microgrid Deployment in Pakistan

The developing world needs viable access to green electricity for the 770 million people without electricity. Microgrids with Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) and advanced information-sharing technologies present a practical solution to give consumers control over energy generation and allow them to share energy in a Peer-to-peer (P2P) system. This increases system efficiency and consumer satisfaction compared to stand-alone PV solutions. Robust business models are needed to facilitate energy trading and to ensure the sustainability and growth of P2P systems in remote communities. In this paper, we propose a business model for a P2P prosumer-based microgrid with DERs that will increase consumer confidence, reduce energy bills and allow seamless system operation. A case study is presented for a DC microgrid deployed in an off-grid village in Pakistan, with a viable business model to cater for the energy and social needs of the community.