Secure and Transparent Data Governance in Power Distribution Using Blockchain Technology

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

1 East Azarbaijan Electric Power Distribution Company, Tabriz, Iran

2 Department of Electrical Engineering, Shab.C., Islamic Azad University, Shabestar, Iran

10.22080/frai.2026.30443.1029

Abstract

Operational data in electrical distribution utilities—including equipment maintenance logs, system performance metrics, and asset condition records—plays a pivotal role in strategic planning and the evolution toward smart grid infrastructures. Despite its importance, widespread issues such as data fragmentation, limited transparency, and a lack of traceable audit mechanisms significantly impair its utility. This study presents a novel blockchain-based framework for transforming operational data governance in power distribution networks. The proposed model integrates three foundational pillars: structured data governance protocols, lifecycle management of physical assets, and permissioned blockchain architecture. A full-scale regional pilot was executed, seamlessly interfacing with existing CMMS, GIS, and SCADA platforms. The deployment was accompanied by rigorous performance tracking and the acquisition of structured data. Quantitative results revealed a 40.2% reduction in audit report preparation time (p < 0.001) and a 35.5% decrease in manual data entry errors (p = 0.003). Load testing confirmed a peak throughput of 158 transactions per second (TPS), with linear scalability up to 720 TPS under enterprise-grade configurations. A comprehensive techno-economic evaluation projects a 5-year return on investment (ROI) of 86.4%, with a payback horizon of 2.6 years. Sensitivity analysis further indicates a 92% likelihood of achieving a positive net present value (NPV). The framework’s maturity is substantiated by a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 7 and a detailed organizational change management assessment. This research offers a robust, economically feasible pathway for utilities to pursue digital transformation, while safeguarding grid reliability and ensuring data integrity across operational domains.

Keywords

Future Research on AI and IoT
Volume 2, Issue 1
January 2026
Pages 11-22

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History

  • Receive Date: 03 November 2025
  • Revise Date: 20 January 2026
  • Accept Date: 21 January 2026
  • First Publish Date: 21 January 2026
  • Publish Date: 01 January 2026

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