A Conceptual Framework for the Business Model of Smart Grids

In spite of the strong believes, the progress and maturity in the deployment of smart grids is very slow. The main reasons behind the slow pace are not due to the technical aspects but, perhaps, as a result of an inappropriate business model, not adequately centered to the customers. Nature, with ability to survive and resist, is a splendid example of competitive life. Mathematical models show that natural complex systems are the replication of simple structures. Exploring this approach, smart grids can be seen as an aggregation of mini and micro grids, with the smart user as fundamental stone. The technical aggregation can be paired with a new business model, based on correspondent enterprises, devoted to operation and maintenance. This framework can open new opportunities, favoring innovations, increasing resilience, pushing toward more responsible energy usage behavior while giving tangible economic and social benefits to the customers.