Two small Sicilian islands test decentralised green energy

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🗞️ Driving the news: The small Sicilian islands of Favignana and Lampedusa are testing 'microgrids' for energy production based on renewables and blockchain technology
• The system, called BloRin, allows users to produce, share, and sell solar energy, turning them into both consumers and producers of power

🔭 The context: Fifteen private individuals are currently piloting this model, which was conceptualized in 2017 by a team of researchers at the University of Palermo
• The model provides instant clarity in consuming, managing, and coordinating with energy distributors

🌎 Why does it matter for the planet: As the world seeks to transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, initiatives like BloRin offer a decentralized model for energy production and consumption

⏭️ What's next: The project, largely funded by the EU's Cohesion Policy, continues to be tested and developed, with four energy companies also contributing funds
• The integration of ICT, including a real-time app for energy production and consumption, and the exploration of bidirectional charging stations, point to future innovations in the renewable energy sector

💬 One quote: "The energy that I can produce using photovoltaic panels and that I don't consume, I can sell on the grid and I can give to my neighbour or to someone who belongs to the same blockchain. The more of us there are, the more we save." (Vincenzo Tenerello, SEA)

📈 One stat: The total budget for BloRin is nearly €2 million, with 86.69% provided by the EU's Cohesion Policy and the remaining 13.31% supplied by associated energy companies

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