Arvato Systems supports utilities industry in converting market communication to API web services with SaaS-based solution

Context: EDIFACT is reaching its limits, particularly in terms of the processing volume and speed of market messages. Both factors are becoming increasingly important in the changing and further digitalizing energy market. API web services eliminate such restrictions. API web services – the abbreviation stands for Application Programming Interfaces – enable almost instant data transmission, are easier to customize and facilitate the integration of communication partners.

That market communication via API also uses the SM-PKI of the Federal Office for Information Security as well as parallel AS4 communication. With its decision BK6-22-024, the BNetzA has already announced a gradual conversion of the existing processes. The first step is a new MALO Ident process before the actual change of supplier, which must run via API by 01.04.2025.

What will the API web service from Arvato Systems include?

A look at key functions and services:

– Process handling for the identification of a market location ID assigned to the market location in accordance with GPKE
– Receiving and sending API requests
– Management of communication partner certificates
– Connection of a directory service
– Support with the initial creation of certificates for the SubCA
– Connection of backend systems via standard interface (e.g. SAP IS-U)
– Secure market communication in accordance with BSI specifications via API web service within the SM-PKI
– Multi-client capable and highly available SaaS solution

Arvato Systems API web service can be used by existing customers as an add-on or extension module of AEP.B2B and continue to use familiar functions such as monitoring and message conversion.

Arvato Systems has experience and wide-ranging expertise

Alexander Beck, who works in Business Development at Arvato Systems and is very familiar with all facets of the API topic thanks to his expertise, is optimistic: "We are working intensively on the design of our API solution and will provide all the required function modules on time. The benchmark for us is the successful and extremely successful changeover to AS4."

Interesting in the context of API: The BNetzA BK7 is currently holding an initial consultation on a basic model for handling network access for the future hydrogen core network in Germany. The model envisages a powerful central data exchange platform for market and communication processes. The market participants are to be securely connected to the data hub via API. Arvato Systems is also a specialist and proven solution provider when it comes to data hubs.