The MaBiS Hub is more than just a compliance project

Many specialist departments within network operators, metering point operators and suppliers are currently taking a relatively relaxed view of the MaBiS Hub: when it comes to new regulatory procedures introduced by the Federal Network Agency, the initial focus is usually on costs, deadlines and the effort required for implementation. This is understandable – but in the case of the MaBiS Hub (procedure BK6-24-210), it falls well short of the mark. Anyone who simply ticks this off as a regulatory formality is missing out on one of the greatest opportunities for market communication in years.

What it’s all about: With the MaBiS Hub, the Federal Network Agency is fundamentally reforming balancing in the electricity market. The aim is to create a central organisation that consolidates all data processes relevant to balancing – tasks that are currently handled decentrally by network operators. The hub is to be operated by the four transmission system operators. Metering point operators, distribution system operators, suppliers and balancing group managers are all equally affected.

The strategic relevance of the MaBiS Hub becomes apparent in the context of critical infrastructure: if central market communication is based on BSI-compliant cryptographic standards, smart metering PKI, signed API interactions and highly available directory services, the market requires a secure and independently operated platform.

Implementation is scheduled for completion by the end of 2029, with testing and adaptation phases extending in some cases until 2030/2031. The timetable is ambitious. Anyone who does not begin their gap analysis until 2027 will come under considerable pressure.

Why a compliance-only approach falls short

Firstly, the value chain is shifting: tasks that currently tie up staff and systems at network operators are being transferred to the hub. Those who consider early on how the freed-up capacity will be utilised in future will gain a head start over competitors who only ask this question after the transition.

Secondly, a standardised, centrally maintained database lays the foundation for new, data-driven services – ranging from more accurate forecasts to new offerings for customers and balancing group managers.

Thirdly, the hub is likely only a first step: the Federal Network Agency (BNetzA) is already examining alternative concepts for a more efficient market communication landscape using hub technologies beyond 2032. Those who merely meet the minimum requirements today will have to make further improvements at the next stage of expansion – whilst others are already using the current transition as a blueprint.

Fourthly, it is not just about building the hub itself. Each of our utility customers will have to set up, test and operate their own connection and interfaces to the hub. The actual wave of implementation therefore affects not only the hub operator, but the entire market.

MaBiS Hub: Why adesso will play a key role here.

The MaBiS Hub generates not only a need for the hub itself – but also a widespread need for implementation across the market

A look at today’s MaBiS logic shows just how deeply the processes are already interlinked: all MaBiS-relevant time series are identified via MaBiS metering points. Added to this are regulated use cases for activation and deactivation, data status, grid time series, supplier clearing lists, balancing area aggregate time series, balancing group aggregate time series and status messages between transmission system operators (TSOs), distribution system operators (DSOs), balancing coordinators (BIKO), balancing group managers (BKV) and suppliers (LF). This demonstrates very clearly that this is not about a single interface, but rather a complex interplay of subject matter expertise, process logic and technical integration.

Adesso recognises this precisely, because the effort does not end with the hub itself. The market roles concerned must adapt their own connectivity, their processes and their target architecture. The significantly larger market therefore emerges not only centrally, but also within the many companies that must integrate the hub – both functionally and technically – into their existing landscape.

For adesso, the MaBiS Hub is far more than just the next regulatory project in the electricity market. It is a strategic opportunity – because it has a profound impact on market communication, process logic, integration requirements and security mechanisms. It is precisely at this interface between utilities expertise, technology and transformation that adesso excels.

Do not downplay the risks

The integration effort will be considerable, particularly for smaller municipal utilities with limited IT resources. The parallel operation of old and new systems during the transition phase, the data security of such a centralised infrastructure, and potential conflicts of interest between the transmission system operators running the hub and other market players must be taken seriously. International hub models, such as those in Denmark, Finland or Sweden, also show that whilst centralised data platforms can simplify processes, their implementation rarely goes smoothly.

Added to this is another bottleneck: the skills market. In parallel with the ongoing SAP transformation, many companies will need developers, integration specialists, testers and consultants with expertise in the energy sector. Those who start too late will come under pressure not only in terms of time but also in terms of staffing.

The MaBiS Hub is coming – the crucial question is whether companies view it as an obligation or as an opportunity. Long-term success will go to those who use the transition to further develop processes, data architecture and business models, rather than simply ticking boxes to meet deadlines. For adesso, this presents a clear strategic opportunity: as a partner for architecture, integration, implementation and energy sector consultancy – both for the Hub itself and for the many customer-side integrations. Given the ambitious timetable leading up to 2028 and the BNetzA’s far-reaching plans for the 2030s, it is already worth shifting our perspective today: from a project that simply needs to be completed to one that shapes the future.

Whether you’re a TSO, DSO, LSO, BIKO, BKV or MSB – the transition to the MaBiS Hub raises different questions depending on your market role. adesso helps you to assess requirements and plan the next steps. You can find out more about this topic and our consultancy services on our Landing Page

If you have any specific questions, you are also welcome to have a no-obligation discussion with our Utilities team.