Blockchain for Secure Human-Machine Transactions in Energy Markets

The rapid evolution of energy infrastructure towards decentralization and automation has amplified the need for secure, transparent, and efficient human-machine interactions. In emerging smart grids, autonomous energy trading platforms, and distributed generation systems, transactions between human operators, IoT-enabled devices, and AI-driven systems must be safeguarded against cyber threats, fraud, and operational discrepancies. This chapter examines the transformative role of blockchain technology in enabling secure human-machine transactions within modern energy markets. It highlights how blockchain's decentralized ledger, cryptographic validation, and immutable record-keeping can enhance trust, traceability, and accountability in both peer-to-peer (P2P) and machine-to-machine (M2M) energy exchanges. Through case studies and implementation models, the chapter explores blockchain-enabled microgrids, dynamic pricing systems, and automated settlement mechanisms that facilitate real-time, tamper-proof transactions.