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A new digital tool to accelerate the heat transition
As Germany strives towards net zero by 2045, decarbonising the building sector is a key priority. Alongside renovation measures, efficient heating systems and the decarbonisation and expansion of heat networks, digitisation is key to achieving this goal, as it makes energy supply, distribution and consumption more efficient, flexible and controllable.
Through the use of smart meters, the operation of heat pumps, HVACs, wallboxes, storage units and solar PV installations can be synchronised with the energy demand of the building or the grid. To achieve this, metering and grid operators are given access to the data, allowing these installations to be controlled externally. The responsibility for installing and commissioning these systems falls to professional electricians, who ensure a seamless integration.
Establishing, testing and documenting successful connectivity
As part of the DigiWEMS project (Digital Integration of Heat Pumps into Building Energy Management Systems), a new digital tool was developed and made available on the website of the Central Association of Electrical and Installation Trades (ZVEH) in July. The tool assists electronic technicians in establishing communication links with installations, as well as verifying and documenting successful setup.
The “EEBUS Handwerkertool” allows electricians to confirm that the communication link to a customer's device is fully operational and ready for external control. It achieves this by connecting to the device and simulating a control box or CLS adapter. The tool also enables technicians to test power limits and fail-safe mechanisms. Upon completion of the connectivity and functional test, businesses receive a protocol that can be used to complement the initial verification protocol pursuant to DIN VDE 0100-600 as an additional functional test. EEBUS is an internationally recognised communication standard used across various manufacturers.
Free download for ZVEH members
By providing a transparent record of a successful installation, the tool offers professional electricians essential legal protection in their dealings with both metering operators and customers. Should a customer modify the installation after it has been successfully commissioned, the tool provides clear proof that the business had correctly established and confirmed the communication link at the control unit’s defined transfer point at the time of handover. The current (beta) version of the “EEBUS Handwerkertool” is available for free download from the ZVEH “Mein E-Handwerk” platform for registered member businesses.
The first test phase has already demonstrated the tool’s value to practitioners, enabling technicians to install and fine-tune systems to ensure that metering operators can successfully conduct initial connectivity tests – without the need for any follow-up.
This illustrates how formerly analogue processes are evolving into truly digital ones. Rather than adjusting controls manually, technicians can simply scan a QR code on the installation to automatically retrieve all the essential information required by the tool, saving significant time. Connectivity and controllability are tested digitally and can be easily adjusted if necessary. The DigiWEMS project has been funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy since 1 January 2025, receiving funding over a three-year period.
In addition, EEBUS initiative e.V. operates a “living lab” in Cologne, providing a real-world environment to test various grid-connection applications. With a wide array of installed components and devices, including heat pumps, the lab serves as a valuable testing ground for technicians. EEBUS boasts an impressive track record in integrating electric vehicle charging stations into the grid via smart meter gateways and has successfully established several market standards.