Analysis of a Power Distribution Network Multi-Area State Estimator with Secure Blockchain-Based Data Exchange

Distribution System State Estimation (DSSE) is an important monitoring tool for decision-making process. The need for data exchange between different actors imposes new requirements of data integrity and security, which can be fulfilled by Blockchain technology thanks to its distributed nature, transparency and immutability In this paper we quantify the time consumption and data exchange requirements between areas. Furthermore, we analyze the implication of Blockchain adoption as a secure data transfer technology, by testing a 2-step MASE algorithm communicated through the Blockchain, and comparing its performance with iterative data exchange methods already present in the literature. Finally, the results are analyzed in terms of storage capacity required for periodic state estimation, and the time required to get a final state-estimate considering the time constraints imposed by Blockchain Technology. Tests and results show different data publication methods for Blockchain adoption and bring quantitative results for the feasibility analysis, depending on the MASE algorithm adopted in the monitoring system.