einfachNETZ: The new platform for standardised, digital grid connection processes in Germany

The ramp-up of the energy transition is particularly evident in the mass market: photovoltaic systems, heat pumps and charging points are being installed in parallel, often at a rapid pace. For distribution network operators (DNOs), this means a growing number of grid connection applications, often accompanied by heterogeneous data, manual intermediate steps and a multitude of queries. The result: increasing processing costs coupled with growing regulatory requirements.

einfachNETZ is the first nationwide end-to-end platform for digital grid connection available to distribution network operators. It brings together grid connection customers, installers and distribution network operators in a consistent digital process chain, offering a solution that goes far beyond the functionality of traditional grid connection portals.

What is einfachNETZ? A consistent and digital platform

einfachNETZ is a modular SaaS platform that digitises the entire grid connection process: from application entry and technical review to the final establishment of the connection. While many distribution network operators still work with isolated solutions today, einfachNETZ pursues a consistently standardised approach.

Even the application process is fully digitised: connection applicants enter all the necessary information step by step via a guided process. The portal performs plausibility and completeness checks, which significantly reduces the number of incorrect or incomplete applications. Data quality increases measurably, and processors receive structured, comparable and complete processes.

The technical implementation is also consistently designed for future viability. As the platform runs on a cloud infrastructure operated by adesso in Germany, DSOs benefit from a KRITIS-compliant environment that meets the security and compliance requirements of the energy sector. Adjustments to new legal requirements, such as the digital application process in accordance with Section 14e of the Energy Industry Act (EnWG) or the standardised content for renewable energy plants up to 30 kW in accordance with Section 8 of the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG), are implemented centrally and are immediately available to all connected DSOs.

The platform can also be seamlessly integrated into the existing IT system landscape. Interfaces to ERP systems, GIS, document management or workforce management prevent media breaks and enable the digital process chain to be completely closed.

Three portals – one continuous process

The strength of the platform lies in the interlinking of three specialised portals.

In the grid connection portal, end customers can submit their applications digitally, upload documents and view the processing status at any time. The portal automatically identifies the responsible grid operator and guides users through all technical and formal requirements, reducing queries to a minimum.

In the installation portal, electrical contractors manage their certificates, qualifications and training records centrally. At the same time, they handle technical registrations and commissioning digitally. This greatly facilitates communication with the VNB and ensures that all project participants work together in a structured manner, even when workloads are high.

Finally, all processes come together in the case management portal. DSO employees receive a clearly structured workflow, can check applications without media discontinuity, send digital feedback and document all process steps in an audit-proof manner. The direct connection to existing IT systems ensures that the entire process, from the application to the finished grid connection, remains digital.

Why is einfachNETZ particularly suitable for distribution network operators?

The platform addresses core issues that are currently affecting DNOs:

• Increased efficiency by automating routine tasks and reducing queries.
• Improved quality of application data, which speeds up technical checks in particular.
• Digital process management ensures that regulatory requirements (deadlines or information obligations) are automatically complied with.
• Processing highly fluctuating request volumes

Especially in mass business, for example when many heat pumps or PV systems are connected simultaneously in certain regions, a standardised platform helps to keep the process stable and avoid bottlenecks.

A strong joint venture – and why it benefits distribution network operators

einfachNETZ is backed by a joint venture between TransnetBW and adesso. This combination is particularly valuable for DSOs because it brings together two perspectives that rarely occur together in practice.

TransnetBW contributes extensive experience in operational network management and a deep understanding of technical regulations, regulatory requirements and KRITIS processes. This means that real network management requirements are directly incorporated into product development.

adesso complements this perspective with expertise in modern cloud architecture, scalable platform development and in-depth industry knowledge from digitalisation projects in the energy sector. Joint development enables the platform to be operated in a permanently stable and future-proof manner, while at the same time implementing new legal requirements centrally, so that DSOs do not have to devote their own IT resources to this.

The result is a product that is not only technically correct but also technologically robust and continuously evolving.

Conclusion: a digital standard for grid connection

With einfachNETZ, distribution network operators get a platform that holistically modernises the grid connection process: more efficient, legally compliant, user-friendly and sustainable in the long term.

It creates a digital infrastructure that meets the increasing demands of the energy transition and thus sets a new standard in German grid connection.

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