Energy Transition and Blockchain

Decentralization as a Tool

Abstract

This article analyzes the role of blockchain technology as a tool to support the global energy transition, particularly within the context of environmental governance and technological innovation. Grounded in the notion of the environment as the common heritage of humankind and recent decisions by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights and the International Court of Justice recognizing the right to a healthy environment, the study discusses the need for decentralized solutions to address the climate crisis. It examines blockchain’s potential to enable decentralized energy trading, ensure the traceability of green certificates, and enhance transparency in carbon markets, with emphasis on experiences in Germany, a leading country in applying this technology to the energy sector. The article also identifies environmental, technological, and regulatory challenges to its adoption, such as high energy consumption, lack of regulatory standardization, and cybersecurity concerns. It concludes that blockchain holds transformative potential for promoting efficiency, democratization, and sustainability in the energy sector, provided it is supported by effective public policies and robust regulatory frameworks.