The interdisciplinary collaborative project CloudEnerChain has been launched to research and demonstrate secure, interoperable, and scalable solutions for the digitalization of energy networks until February 2029. At the core of the project is the development of an end-to-end chain of trust that reliably connects field devices, IoT components, cloud systems, and control systems, enabling secure and verifiable communication across system and domain boundaries. The project is funded with approximately €3 million by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy as part of the 8th Energy Research Program.
CloudEnerChain addresses key challenges in the future operation of power grids. Increasing electrification, the integration of decentralized generation and flexible consumers, and the growing number of interconnected devices are raising the complexity of distribution networks while simultaneously increasing the demand for automation and expanding potential attack surfaces. The project therefore pursues a holistic approach that jointly considers interoperability, IT/OT security, and practical applicability. The objective is to better connect cross-vendor and cross-stakeholder system landscapes, reduce dependencies on proprietary stand-alone solutions, and create new operational flexibility for grid operators.
A central element of the project is a cloud-based interoperability layer featuring a technology-independent data and metadata model. Based on this infrastructure, secure value-added services such as AI-supported anomaly detection, real-time load management, monitoring, and the control of flexible resources will be enabled. This is complemented by a comprehensive security concept including Hardware Security Modules (HSMs), Trusted Core Networks, endpoint attack detection, and assistance and monitoring systems for control rooms.
The consortium combines scientific, technological, and operational expertise. Fraunhofer FIT coordinates the overall project and develops methods for attack detection, assessment, and operator assistance systems. Hochschule Bremen – City University of Applied Sciences works on trust models, the integration of Hardware Security Modules, threat analyses, and simulation environments. Digimondo GmbH further develops the cloud-based interoperability layer and the interoperable data model. PSI Software SE contributes its expertise in control systems and cloud-based value-added services. SWO Netz GmbH ensures alignment with real grid operation requirements through use cases as well as laboratory and field tests. Schleswig-Holstein Netz AG and Rhebo GmbH support the project as associated partners with additional practical and cybersecurity expertise.
The project officially started on 1 March 2026, with the kick-off meeting held on 10–11 March 2026 in Aachen. With CloudEnerChain, the consortium aims to develop a transferable blueprint for the secure digitalization of energy networks. In doing so, the partners intend to contribute to a resilient, open, and future-ready energy system.