SECProMo

Secure Energy Management Through Control of Prosumers via the Smart Meter Gateway and Reusable Service Modules

SECProMo lays the groundwork for future use cases in the energy sector by developing secure communication solutions and flexible energy optimization via smart meter gateways, with the aim of seamlessly integrating prosumers into a smart, distributed energy management system and enabling innovative business models.

The project aims to systematically gather practical experience across the entire communication chain of grid-supporting control processes, including all components and systems involved. Another goal of the planned work is to introduce new technologies into the value chain, particularly in the areas of system interfaces, third-party system integration, smart metering systems, and process experience.

The massive increase in prosumers in distribution grids, driven by the expansion of controllable consumption devices (e-mobility, heat pumps) and generation systems (rooftop PV systems), underscores the importance of the SECProMo project. The resulting strain on distribution grids necessitates the secure and standardized integration of prosumers in a manner that benefits the grid. In addition, energy management systems are to be used to realize potential savings through smart metering systems. The field test will focus on the grid area served by Stadtwerke Bielefeld.

Challenges

For future energy sector applications, successful integration of smart metering systems and energy management systems is essential. Key challenges in this regard include the lack of uniform standardization of the data model and the communication protocol for end devices. The consortium aims to address and test the development of interoperable solutions for the energy sector, as well as the further development and simplification of operational processes in the context of CLS. In addition, key regulatory frameworks (e.g., Section 14a of the German Energy Industry Act (EnWG), TR-03109-5) are still under development and must be continuously aligned with the concepts and further development of the systems and devices.

Role of PPC

As part of SECProMo, PPC AG plans to significantly advance its operational processes in the CLS sector in order to bring innovative features to market as quickly as possible and tap into new market segments in the field of prosumer control. In addition, PPC will support the design and development of a secure end-to-end system by contributing its expertise in SMGW, IT security, and cryptography, as well as its experience with various communication technologies. Furthermore, various solutions based on WAN communication technologies—and in particular CLS gateways for prosumer control developed by PPC—will be introduced and tested in laboratory and field trials.

To achieve these goals, PPC is collaborating with a consortium consisting of smartOPTIMO GmbH & Co. KG (consortium leader), Stadtwerke Bielefeld GmbH, Osnabrück University of Applied Sciences, ZENNER Hessware GmbH, Arvato Systems Digital GmbH, and itmes GmbH & Co. KG. To ensure the project’s findings are sustained, the consortium will present and discuss the results in the relevant standardization bodies and associations.