Aussie startup to test P2P energy trading platform with Origin

Australian startup Power Ledger will partner with Australian utility Origin Energy Ltd (ASX:ORG) to test its peer-to-peer energy trading platform in a trial that starts in October.

Tony Lucas, executive general manager at Origin, said that the trial will help better understand the value proposition for consumers, and the regulatory and technical implications of peer-to-peer trading in the energy sector.

Over a three-month period the trial will use anonymised and historical customer data to prove the accuracy and security of the Power Ledger trading platform. It relies on blockchain-based technology to identify the ownership of electricity and manage multiple trading agreements. Thus consumers buy electricity, such as power from solar panels, directly from the original owner or producer, without the need for a middle man.

“Exploring technology options with Origin that could allow consumers to take more control of their energy purchasing options highlights how the needs and expectations of energy users are changing in Australia and reflects Origin’s stated commitment to delivering innovative energy solutions to its customers,” said Power Ledger head David Martin.

Origin’s Lucas noted that the company is exploring a number of emerging technologies to address the changing needs of customers.

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