EDESandbox

The project

Digitalisation in the energy sector requires the exchange of reliable and secure data. While current projects demonstrate the feasibility of data spaces, significant barriers to entry remain for SMEs. Critical issues such as authentication (eIDAS vs. Smart Metering PKI), semantic interoperability and usage control remain unresolved. EDESandbox is a cross-Fraunhofer experimental data space laboratory for the energy sector. It enables SMEs, municipal utilities and service providers to test data space-based technologies and business models in a practical setting. The sandbox is based on established standards (Gaia-X, IDSA, EDC) and preliminary work from ongoing projects (dena-Testfeld, energy data-X, idFlexNetz). It integrates connectors, backend systems, and real-world energy components.

Scientific innovations in authentication, policy enforcement and interoperability are validated and exploited for commercial purposes through training programmes and business models.

Project goals

The goal is to establish a fully operational experimental data space laboratory for the energy sector that enables SMEs and municipal utilities to conduct practical testing of data space technologies. We, the IOSB-AST, are the lead institute responsible for operational implementation: deploying and hosting the EDC infrastructure, configuring connectors, and integrating real-world backend systems (energy management systems, charging stations, smart meters). Central to this is the validation of scientific innovations in authentication (eIDAS vs. smart metering PKI), usage control, and semantic interoperability.

Further objectives include mapping typical energy market roles, developing practical use cases and business models, and establishing a monetizable training and consulting offering. The results will culminate in a guide and lay the foundation for contract research and technical services.

Results

Upon completion, EDESandbox will provide an operational experimental data space laboratory with real-world energy sector interfaces. Validated solutions are expected for authentication (eIDAS vs. Smart Metering PKI), policy enforcement, and semantic interoperability—essential building blocks of functional data spaces. Proven business models and use cases will be documented in an implementation guide. The project establishes a Fraunhofer-wide training and consulting program that facilitates SMEs’ entry into data space technologies. The results create standards for the energy industry, promote digital sovereignty, and position Fraunhofer as a leading provider of data space expertise with sustainable exploitation opportunities.

Project partners

• Fraunhofer Institute for Optronics, System Technologies, and Image Processing, Applied System Technology Division (IOSB-AST)
• Fraunhofer Institute for Energy Economics and Energy System Technology (IEE)
• Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research (ISI)
• Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Information Technology (FIT) 

The EDESandbox project is funded by the Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence for Integrated Energy Systems.