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Business Case for a Regional AI-Based Marketplace for Renewable Energies

Author

Listed:
  • Jonas Holzinger

    (Competence Center for Innovative Business Models, Aalen University, 73430 Aalen, Germany)

  • Anna Nagl

    (Competence Center for Innovative Business Models, Aalen University, 73430 Aalen, Germany)

  • Karlheinz Bozem

    (Bozem|Consulting Associates|Munich, 80997 Munich, Germany)

  • Carsten Lecon

    (Competence Center for Innovative Business Models, Aalen University, 73430 Aalen, Germany)

  • Andreas Ensinger

    (Ueberlandzentrale Woerth/I.-Altheim Netz AG, 84051 Altheim, Germany)

  • Jannik Roessler

    (Competence Center for Innovative Business Models, Aalen University, 73430 Aalen, Germany)

  • Christina Neufeld

    (Competence Center for Innovative Business Models, Aalen University, 73430 Aalen, Germany)

Abstract

The global energy sector is rapidly changing due to decentralization, renewable energy integration, and digitalization, challenging traditional energy business models. This paper explores a startup concept for an AI-assisted regional marketplace for renewable energy, specifically suited for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Driven by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), big data, and Internet of Things (IoT) technology, this marketplace enables efficient energy trading through real-time supply–demand matching with dynamic pricing. Decentralized energy systems, such as solar and wind power, offer benefits like enhanced energy security but also present challenges in balancing supply and demand due to volatility. This research develops and validates an AI-based pricing model to optimize regional energy consumption and incentivize efficient usage to support grid stability. Through a SWOT analysis, this study highlights the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of such a platform. Findings indicate that, with scalability, the AI-driven marketplace could significantly support the energy transition by increasing renewable energy use and therefore reducing carbon emissions. This paper presents a viable, scalable solution for SMEs aiming to participate in a resilient, sustainable, and localized energy market.

Suggested Citation

  • Jonas Holzinger & Anna Nagl & Karlheinz Bozem & Carsten Lecon & Andreas Ensinger & Jannik Roessler & Christina Neufeld, 2025. "Business Case for a Regional AI-Based Marketplace for Renewable Energies," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(4), pages 1-13, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:4:p:1739-:d:1594666
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    References listed on IDEAS

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