System Communication through Smart Metering Systems (iMSys)

The central element of the digitalization of the energy system is the smart meter gateway (SMGW), which together with modern measuring equipment (mME) forms the so-called intelligent measuring system (iMSys). In addition to the secure transmission of consumption data to the metering point operator, the SMGW, in conjunction with connected control boxes, also offers the option of controlling local generators and loads via a secure communication channel.

Fluctuating and decentralized energy generation increasingly require the coordination of the consumption side and the use of existing flexibility options that are available in the domestic energy system. Numerous new business models are currently emerging in the field of smart buildings: energy management systems are being used to connect and control various flexible consumers, meters, generation plants and battery storage systems. Feedback systems allow targeted energy efficiency analysis and optimized operation depending on the current grid status.

The nationwide roll-out of iMSys smart metering systems has begun - however, the functionality is still very limited. At Fraunhofer ISE, we are developing extensions for system communication and testing them in laboratory and field trials. In this way, the potential of the new system can be exploited and offer real added value.

We offer:

  • Expansion and testing of communication interfaces along the entire route
  • A modern laboratory environment for testing your installations in the system
  • Analysis and optimization of energy management and operational control algorithms
  • Regulatory and process know-how

Analysis and Optimization of Energy Management via the HAN / CLS Interface

In particular, Fraunhofer ISE is investigating the communication processes for controlling relevant systems (such as charging infrastructure, heat pumps or battery storage) in the building context, which are jointly managed by a home energy management system. The key component here is the control box, which supports power limitation signals from the grid or market level via standardized interfaces, for example in accordance with § 14a EnWG.

We test your systems in a controlled laboratory environment in conjunction with a wide range of other components. You receive a comprehensive overview of compatibility and functionality in relation to flexibility provision and energy management. We are happy to support you in the further development of your systems. 

Further Development of Communication Protocols for Energy Systems

The basis for controlling and monitoring decentralized systems are communication protocols that enable data exchange between systems and backend systems. Technological progress in the field of ICT and the development of new types of systems and devices, such as intelligent charging stations, intelligent inverters or smart meter gateways and control boxes, are also changing the requirements for the way in which data is transmitted. In order to meet these requirements, existing communication protocols are being further developed or new types of communication protocols are being developed in standardization committees.

We investigate which protocols are best suited to specific tasks and, depending on our customers' requirements, we develop new data models and expand the functional scope of existing protocols. We evaluate the functionality using hardware-in-the-loop (HiL) tests in our laboratory.

In addition to consulting and development services, we also offer communication stacks for e.g. IEC 60870, IEC 61850 and EEBus as open source implementations for industry and research to support them in the development of innovative solutions.

Development of EEBus Software Solutions for Energy Systems

The EEBus stack “jEEBus” developed at Fraunhofer ISE and implemented in the Java programming language includes the SHIP transport layer, the SPINE data model and protocol as well as use cases from various domains such as e-mobility and grid. Our implementation already supports the necessary use cases for the technical implementation of Section 14a EnWG via EEBus. We are continuously adding further use cases to the functional scope of “jEEBus”. As a member of the EEBus Initiative e.V., we are also in close contact with the association and the community.

Take advantage of our expertise in the field of EEBus to develop innovative, EEBus-compatible products. We support you in your development with our tailored advice and individual software license agreements. We also offer virtual EEBus devices that you can use as a counterpart to your product for communication tests in quality assurance.

More Information on this Topic:

 

LamA-connect

BSI-Compliant Charging Using Smart Meter Gateways

 

Digital Grid Lab

Power-hardware-in-the-loop (PHIL) simulator for distribution grids in the power range up to 800 kVA for low voltage

 

News

UtiliSpaces

Project Launch of UtiliSpaces: Control and Power Regulation within the Smart Meter Infrastructure