Abstract
The smart grid environment requires the enhancement of various computational tools, especially for routine tasks of data acquisition and system monitoring. This paper presents the building blocks of a conceptual framework to be used as the basis for the construction of novel distributed remote metering systems with utilization of the cutting edge Blockchain technology. The proposed methodology is suitable for processing a large volume of data aimed at monitoring modern electric power distribution grids. As a proof of concept, a collaborative metering system is conceived based on the Blockchain technology, being primarily capable of: dealing with the entirety of the collected data (conveniently stored and filtered); assuring data integrity by means of cryptography; optimizing implementation/operation costs of the telecommunication services involved. Simulation results concerning the reliability and performance of the designed distributed remote metering system are presented.

Abstract
Over the past few decades, the behavior of electricity consumption has been changing, especially because of improvements in the distributed generation segment and technological innovations presented by smart grids. The use of microgeneration and the availability of electricity pricing in real time allow consumers to control their consumption, or generation, according to market conditions. This new dynamic tends to increasingly change the price elasticity of electricity demand, by indicating the need to readjust load forecasting models. In this market environment, in addition to providing robust estimates for the planning and operation of electric power systems, load forecasting models have become fundamental in the context of demand management. Thus, this paper proposes to develop an artificial neural network and fuzzy logic for load forecasting to perform an efficiency analysis. This system is able to provide estimates of the elasticity of electricity demand behavior with more satisfactory results. To do so, improvements in the neural network with multilayer perceptron are proposed. In this case, the adaptation of parameters to correlate variations in consumption with the changes in electricity tariffs was developed. The addition of this new structure produced better results compared with the conventional neural network. Computer tests were conducted using historical data from the ISO New England Inc and PJM Interconnection. Price elasticity estimates of electricity demand showed a sharp increase of demand in relation to the elasticity behavior.