Identification and Authentication in a Common European Data Space

September 11, 2024

Identification and Authentication (I&A) are essential building blocks for creating a secure and integrated energy data space in Europe. Project EDDIE addresses the challenges of establishing a reliable I&A framework that spans multiple countries and systems, ensuring that data exchange is streamlined and secure.

Key Challenges in Identification and Authentication for Energy Data

Project EDDIE identifies four main challenges in the context of a Common European Energy Data Space:

• Integration with Existing Federated Infrastructures: Each EU member state has its own processes and platforms for managing energy data. EDDIE’s I&A strategy must harmonize with these national requirements while maintaining compliance.
• Dynamic I&A for Distributed Participants: Managing large numbers of participants, from distributed energy resources (DERs) to flexible consumers, is complex and requires advanced technologies like Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) and eIDAS.
• Platform Orchestration: EDDIE needs to manage identification and access for multiple platforms, ensuring that data is accessible and secure across diverse environments.
• Cross-Space Data Connectivity: Establishing a bridge between EDDIE and other data spaces is crucial to facilitate comprehensive data sharing across the European energy ecosystem.

EDDIE’s Identification and Authentication Strategy

EDDIE’s I&A strategy revolves around leveraging the eIDAS Regulation and the European Digital Identity Framework to create a secure, cross-border I&A system. The following are the core domains covered in this strategy:

1. Integration with National Federated Data-Sharing Infrastructures

Each country has its own unique way of managing energy data. For example, in Austria, market participants must register through the Energy Data Exchange Austria platform. EDDIE’s solution is to offer a consent management layer that harmonizes local practices into a unified European interface.

2. Dynamic I&A for Large Numbers of Distributed Participants

In distributed energy systems, devices such as heat pumps or electric vehicle chargers must be securely identified and authenticated. EDDIE employs cryptographic certificates and secure communications protocols to ensure that every participant, whether it’s a device or an individual, can be trusted and validated.

3. I&A for Platform Orchestrations

The EDDIE framework incorporates components like the EDDIE Marketplace, Admin Console, and AIIDA (Administrative Interface for In-house Data Access) to support user and system authentication. Technologies such as Keycloak are used to manage roles and permissions across these platforms.

4. Data Space Connectors

EDDIE aims to connect seamlessly with other data spaces, such as GAIA-X and sister projects like Synergies and OMEGA-X, through dedicated data space connectors. This integration will help create a cohesive European energy data landscape, promoting data accessibility and interoperability.

Key Policy Recommendations

• Mandate eID/eIDAS Authentication for All Eligible Parties: Using a common European authentication framework will reduce barriers and make it easier for new participants to join the market.
• Standardize IDs for Connection Agreement Points: Consistent identification for all key actors in the data exchange process is crucial for secure and efficient operations.
• Encourage Deployment of eID/eIDAS on Flexibility Platforms: This will streamline authentication processes and support the development of a unified European energy data space.

Project EDDIE is at the forefront of creating a standardized, secure, and interoperable I&A framework for the European energy sector. By addressing these key challenges, EDDIE aims to lay the foundation for a truly integrated Common European Energy Data Space that supports innovation, efficiency, and security.

To learn more about Project EDDIE and its I&A strategy, explore the full document on the EDDIE website.