The evolving landscape of modern energy systems and the rapid expansion of Blockchain / Distributed Ledger Technologies (B/DLT) heralds a new era of groundbreaking developments in energy production, distribution, and consumption. These advancements are celebrated for their ability to enhance transparency, security, and efficiency within the energy sector. The critical question is: where does the real potential of these technologies lie, and in what ways are international organizations like IEEE catalyzing these advancements? This panel and workshop are dedicated to exploring the interplay between energy systems and B/DLT, examining practical applications, ongoing efforts in standardization, and the worldwide scenario encompassing markets, research, and pilot projects.

Special attention will be given to the activities of the P2418.5 Working Group and the initiatives of IEEE SA, which are pivotal in steering these technological breakthroughs. This session is designed to illuminate the combined potential of DLT and energy systems, motivating attendees to envision new possibilities for the energy sector. Participants will gain valuable insights, knowledge, and updates on current trends, empowering them to engage in and shape the future of energy systems actively. The program will include a diverse group of esteemed academics, industry leaders, and practitioners leading the way in the convergence of DLT and energy. Their varied viewpoints will span from technical intricacies to market developments, providing a comprehensive understanding of the subject. The panel will discuss several key topics:

• B/DLT in Energy: Beyond the Buzz - A comprehensive look at B/DLT's potential in the energy sector, from decentralized grids to peer-to-peer energy trading.
• Case Studies in Action - A deep dive into real-life examples of how B/DLT is revolutionizing energy practices, with an emphasis on key takeaways.
• P2418.5 Working Group Endeavors and Standardization - A detailed discussion on standardization efforts' significance, challenges, and advancements.
• Surveying the Global Scene - An analysis of global trends in research, market movements, and demonstration projects.
• IEEE's Contribution and Outlook - An exploration of IEEE's role, pivotal initiatives, and anticipated impact in integrating B/DLT with energy.

This workshop will gather experts to deliberate on the latest developments in blockchain and energy and the regulation of B/DLT.

For further details on the IEEE Blockchain Website:  Conferences - IEEE Blockchain Technical Community

• Prof. Umit Cali - Professor of Digital Engineering for Future Technologies, The University of York
• Associate Prof. Hamed Ahmadi - Reader, The University of York
• Assistant Prof. Babar Jamil - Lecturer in Robotics and Control, The University of York, School of Physics, Engineering, and Technology

• Dr. Ramesh Ramadoss, Chair, IEEE Blockchain Technical Community, US (Virtual)
• Prof. Umit Cali, Chair, BCE Committee, IEEE Blockchain Technical Community,University of York, UK (in-person)
• Dr. Alex Norta, Chair, IEEE Finland Blockchain Group, Finland (in-person)
• Prof Miles Elsden, Director of the Institute for Safe Autonomy, University of York, UK (in-person)
• Prof. David Flynn, University of Glasgow, UK (Virtual)
• Prof. Valentin Robu, CWI and Eindhoven University of Technology, Netherlands (Virtual)
• Prof. Hongjian Sun, Durham University (Virtual or In-person: TBC) 
• Assistant Prof. Paul Cuffe, Assistant Professor, UCD School of Electrical & Electronic Engineering, Ireland (in-person)
• Shawn Chander, Director, Guidehouse, Energy, Sustainability and Infrastructure, US (Virtual) 
• Dr. Merlinda Andoni, University of Glasgow, UK (Virtual or in-person) 
• Dr. Desen Kirli, The University of Edinburgh, UK (Virtual) 
• Dr. Benoit Couraud, University of Glasgow, UK (Virtual) 
• Dr. D. Jonathan Sebastian-Cardenas, PhD, Team Leader, PNN, US (Virtual)

Tentative Agenda (UK/GMT zone) 

10:00 – 10:05:  Keynote Speaker (Dr. Ramesh Ramadoss) 

10:05 – 10:15:  Keynote Speaker (Prof. Miles Elsden) 

10:15 - 10:45:  Tutorial 1:  Foundations of B/DLT (Dr.Alex Norta) 

10:45- 11:00:  15-minute Break and Networking

11:00 - 11:30:  Tutorial 2: B/DLT for Energy Sector (Prof. Umit Cali) 

11:30- 12:00:  Tutorial 3: Smart Contracts for Energy Sector (Dr. Desen Kirli, Dr. Benoit Couraud, Prof. Valentin Robu)

12:00 - 13:30:  Lunch Break and Networking 

13:30 - 14:45:  Panel Session: Academic and Industrial Perspectives and Q&A 

Moderators: Prof. Umit Cali and Dr. Alex Norta

Panelists: 

• • Prof. Valentin Robu
  • Assistant Prof. Paul Cuffe: “Smart contracts to implement exotic financing instruments in bulk electricity markets: prospects and motivations.” 
  • Dr. D. Jonathan Sebastian-Cardenas: “Secure and Trustable Energy Applications via DLT”
  • Dr. Merlinda Andoni: “Summarizing Global Landscape about Energy DLT Use Cases”
  • Shawn Chandler: “The need for standardization, interoperability and industrial applicability of DLT-based energy solutions”

14:45-15:00  Closing remarks

--> Find out more about the IEEE Blockchain Technical Community

--> Find out more about the IEEE Blockchain Technical Community

• Ramesh Ramadoss, Chair, IEEE Blockchain Technical Community