Digitization of Networks and Data Protection

Abstract This chapter examines data protection and consumer privacy challenges that arise with the digitization of energy networks under a Distributed Energy Resources (DER) model. Drawing lessons from the European Union and Australia, the chapter outlines the tensions involved in facilitating shared data access and use while enabling effective data protection and consumer agency as renewable energy is integrated into previously centralized energy models. Within a market-based regulatory environment such as Australia, policy and legal developments around data protection and digitization are predicated upon a dialogue of consumer/prosumer utility. These policy platforms obscure what is in effect a trend away from the first phase of small-scale DER. Small scale solar and wind and now electric vehicles have been promoted directly by governments but are now being rapidly overtaken by large wind and solar projects where the opportunities for consumer participation are more constrained. The chapter offers commentary on the emergent DER trends, as well as some recommendations around ensuring the pivotal integrity of data as these transformations occur.