Tracing local energy markets: A literature review

Abstract

We conduct a structured literature review on the concept of local energy markets (LEMs). LEMs have gained increasing attention in the last two decades. Yet, a holistic definition and clear demarcation of LEMs is still missing. The review shows current works to shift their focus from conceptual implementation and design to increasingly realistic applications of LEMs. Secure access to (near) real-time smart meter data is a prerequisite for LEMs. Current research gaps, e. g. the inclusion of network constraints, agent-centric LEM designs or a comparison of market mechanisms, are identified.