🏆 2nd Place – Hack the Sem 2026
WattExchange is a peer-to-peer solar energy trading platform that uses AI-based matching and Solana settlements to let households buy and sell surplus solar energy directly with their neighbours.
In many countries like Australia, households with solar panels generate excess energy but are underpaid when selling it back to the grid. At the same time, nearby households pay high retail prices for the same electricity. We wanted to bridge this gap by enabling direct energy exchange within communities.
- Fair compensation for households generating surplus solar energy
- Lower electricity costs for buyers
- More efficient use of renewable energy within neighborhoods
- Reduced reliance on centralized energy grids
This project was built around the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals:
- SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities
- P2P Energy Marketplace – Buy and sell surplus energy locally
- Geolocation Matching – Connect with nearby households
- AI-Based Matching – Smart ranking based on price and proximity
- Real-Time Updates – Dynamic listings and trade updates
- Secure Transactions – Blockchain-backed payments using Solana
- Energy Simulation – Realistic, formula-driven energy data
Have a look at our presentation in the repository to see how we pitched our idea to the judges.
It also includes a short demo video that highlights key features and shows the platform flow.
This project was built during Hack the Sem 2026, where judging was based on:
- Innovation
- Impact
- Implementation
We’re proud to have placed 2nd overall 🎉
- Integration with real-world energy data APIs
- Smart contracts for automated settlements
- Expansion to larger communities and smart grids
Built with a focus on sustainability, community, and impactful technology.