Connected secondary and control technology
From sensors and actuators to grid control systems, data and communication relationships in the power grid are becoming denser
Project
CloudEnerChain connects secure digitalisation with the needs of modern power grids
CloudEnerChain explores how secondary systems, IoT components, cloud platforms and grid control systems can work together securely, transparently and across system boundaries.
The energy transition brings more distributed energy resources, flexible demand and a much higher need for data-driven observation and control. At the same time, requirements for interoperability and cybersecurity are increasing.
CloudEnerChain addresses this development with an overarching approach: systems from secondary systems through substation and grid control technology to the control room need to exchange data securely, transparently and across system boundaries.
This points to a core question for digitalisation in power grids: how can new digital applications create practical value without losing sight of trust, robustness and transferability?
Foundations
Four technical perspectives shape the project
These four perspectives show which technical foundations the project builds on and where the central challenges of digitalisation in power grids lie.
Cloud and edge integration for utility operations
Digital infrastructures must balance scalability, latency constraints, security requirements and regulatory conditions at the same time
Interoperability as a prerequisite
Without shared models and clear interfaces, new applications often get stuck at proprietary system boundaries
Holistic cybersecurity
Prevention, monitoring, attack detection and response need to work together if digitalisation is to remain robust
Target picture
Moving from isolated system boundaries toward robust digital cooperation
At the core is an end-to-end chain of trust from secondary systems through substation and grid control technology to the control room. The goal is to make digital applications in power grids robust, interoperable and ready for operational use
Interoperability instead of siloed solutions
A shared approach to data and interfaces is meant to connect diverse systems more effectively and strengthen interoperability
Cybersecurity along the full chain
Security is not treated as a point solution, but as a principle spanning secondary systems, communication paths and control-centre integration
Cloud and edge aligned with operational requirements
Digital applications should be placed where they create value while respecting latency, safety and operational requirements
Operational value for grid operations
Monitoring, anomaly detection and new digital applications are intended to support day-to-day utility operations in practical ways
Practice-oriented perspective
CloudEnerChain aligns its research with future operational use
Transparency for grid operations
An interoperability layer can improve observability and interpretation of complex grid situations
Secure integration of distributed components
Secondary systems, gateways, platforms and grid control systems should interact reliably even across heterogeneous settings
Digital applications with tangible operational value
Applications such as monitoring, anomaly detection or support for flexible processes are aligned with operational needs