Vodafone to Connect 'Billions' of Energy Producing Devices Using Blockchain

Global telecommunications giant Vodafone has partnered with blockchain startup Energy Web (EWT) to connect “billions'' of distributed energy generating assets via internet-of-things (IoT) and distributed ledger technology (DLT).

Energy Web announced the partnership on May 26, revealing that the project will combine SIM-centric DLT with IoT connectivity provided by Vodafone Business to “create secure IDs for energy assets.”

“This means that renewable and distributed assets like wind turbines, batteries, heat pumps, and solar panels can be integrated with energy grids safely and efficiently,” said Energy Web.

Vodafone is a global leader in IoT with over 100 million connections worldwide. The news appears to have pushed Energy Web’s EWT token into new all-time highs.

Vodafone and Energy Web

The firms will develop a system inspired by the way that telecom operators securely identify mobile phones using SIM cards for grids to identify and track distributed energy sources.

The smart grid system will be underpinned by Vodafone’s IoT technology and the Energy Web Decentralized Operating System.

“We are seeing the convergence of multiple sectors in making the energy transition happen — the energy sector, of course, but also automotive, telecoms, and even finance,” said Energy Web chief executive Walter Kok.

Erik Brennei, director of Vodafone Business IoT, stated, “As the number of decentralized, new-generation, low-carbon devices grows, so does the need for them to be securely connected regardless of their location.”

“This connection needs to be simple and secure, ensuring assets are easily able to be connected to, and managed by, energy and communication networks around the globe,” he added.

Vodafone expand exploration of DLT

While Vodafone has been engaging with blockchain technology for many years, recent months have seen increased DLT adoption from the telecoms giant.

In March, Vodafone revealed it was exploring DLT applications for its supply chain, looking to use blockchain to streamline internal processes.

In 2019, Vodafone identified over 20 use cases for blockchain across its global operations, including identity, security and digital rights.