Mannheim, December 5, 2024 — Power Plus Communications AG (PPC) is the first company to successfully complete the certification process for the so-called MSB supply chain. As a result, all PPC customers can now benefit from the streamlined processes.
In early November, the BSI, in collaboration with the “Secure Logistics Chain” project group of the VDE’s Network Technology/Network Operations Forum (FNN), developed and published a catalog of requirements for the “MSB supply chain.” In order for an MSB to be able to handle the delivery of SMGWs from the point of goods receipt on its own responsibility, this delivery option must be specified in the SMGW manufacturer’s certification documentation.
PPC immediately incorporated this feature for efficient delivery into the ongoing development of its smart meter gateway and successfully completed the certification process for it on December 4.
The new MSB supply chain enables metering point operators to develop and implement a security concept tailored to their individual needs as an alternative to the Secure Supply Chain (SiLKe), which remains available for use.
PPC CEO Ingo Schönberg is pleased that PPC is making the new MSB supply chain available for certified products so quickly: “With the MSB supply chain, we can make the logistics of smart meter gateways more efficient and less bureaucratic. This simplifies and accelerates the rollout process for our customers.”
The requirements catalog for the MSB supply chain defines the requirements that must be met when the MSB handles deliveries on its own. For example, it must be ensured that deliveries are carried out by reliable personnel trained by the MSB itself and that a reporting center is in place to which any security incidents can be reported. In addition, clear responsibilities, corresponding procedures, and security guidelines for the affected IT systems must be defined.
The MSB’s security concept for implementing general and process-specific requirements must be documented but does not necessarily have to be audited by an external party. Requirements for the secure storage and transport from the warehouse to the installation site can thus be adapted to the individual processes of the respective metering point operator. The new MSB supply chain is now available to all PPC customers who have defined a security concept in accordance with the requirements catalog.
