A Comprehensive Review of Blockchain and Machine Learning Integration for Peer-to-Peer Energy Trading in Smart Grids

The transition from traditional energy or electrical grids to smart energy or electrical grids has significantly transformed energy management. This evolution emphasizes decentralization, efficiency, and sustainability in energy systems. However, it also introduces numerous risks, including cyber-physical system vulnerabilities and challenges in energy trading. The application of blockchain and Machine Learning (ML) offers potential solutions to these issues. Blockchain enhances energy transactions by making them safer, more transparent, and tamper-proof, while ML optimizes grid performance by improving predictions, fault detection, and anomaly identification. This systematic review examines the application of blockchain and ML in peer-to-peer (P2P) energy trading within smart grids and analyzes how these technologies complement each other in mitigating risks and enhancing the efficiency of smart grids. Blockchain enhances security by providing privacy for transactions and maintaining immutable records, while ML predicts market trends, identifies fraudulent activities, and ensures efficient energy use. The paper identifies critical challenges in smart grids, such as unsecured communication channels and vulnerabilities to cyber threats, and discusses how blockchain and ML address these issues. Furthermore, the study explores emerging trends, such as lightweight blockchain systems and edge computing, to overcome implementation challenges. A new architecture is proposed, integrating blockchain with ML algorithms to create resilient, secure, and efficient energy trading markets. The paper underscores the need for global standardization, improved cybersecurity measures, and further research into how blockchain and ML can revolutionize smart grids. This study integrates current knowledge with a forward-looking perspective, providing valuable insights for researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders in the energy sector to collaboratively build a future of efficient and intelligent energy systems.