Does digitalisation have the potential to make the electricity market more intelligent?
This is undoubtedly true. However, automation and monitoring processes frequently require a certain level of investment. Unfortunately, it is rarely possible for many players to participate in, have a say in, and benefit from digitalisation. As a result of political decisions and investments and the strategic approach taken, monopolies, tendencies towards more excellent centralisation, and cartels can emerge (as observed in many areas) that impede progress, disempower citizens, or do not allow participation.
The growth of the state economy is further cementing the latter trend.
How might it be possible for more people and smaller and medium-sized companies to participate in the electricity market?
A more market economy and a segmented market economy are required. Energy policy should motivate citizens to take entrepreneurial decisions on their initiative. The necessary interest tends to be generated when there is something to gain. This is not negative per se; as the number of independent, better-off people with a certain level of autonomy rises, so will the benefits for a country or region. Having more players and alternative perspectives often leads to the distribution of power, federalism and an improved standard of knowledge. Digitalisation and affordable technology play a key role here.
Independent auditors are crucial for functioning markets
Do you trust management lobbies, such as the tobacco lobby, or large banks and international organisations? Perhaps your answer to this question has sometimes been “yes and no”. As an independent observer, one could conclude that financially strong institutional investors wish to profit from the opportunities created by digitalisation on a grand scale. A balanced, civil-controlled system that utilises professionals from different areas is generally the best option. Particularly in Switzerland, many people are searching for a supposedly “secure” job.
Nevertheless, institutionalised organisations, social services and state structures continue to grow quickly in this country. As a result, “legions” become dependent on these players, constraining independent businesses or even placing them under taboo. This trend has a few isolated positive effects, but not about innovation, progress and sustainability.
Can digitalisation be monitored functionally?
There are many relevant topic areas here that are desirable in functioning democracies. Auditors’ inspections are key. A mutual system of independent and governmental monitoring would theoretically be sensible but not entirely feasible in terms of costs. Economical decision-making, market power and deliberate business competition would be highly successful in a relatively short period when paired with thought-out basic conditions, standardisation and digital intelligence. It is time for legislators to act. There is no lack of committed, hard-working groups in this area. Let us make landmark decisions that allow for reasonable accelerations so that we can slow down in places where, for example, our health and knowledge will be promoted.