General framework
Procedure for defining traction current grid access
The determination procedure already initiated by the BNetzA in 2019 for the further development of the business processes for access to the traction current grid is nearing completion. In April 2021, the BNetzA submitted a revised document on future automated business processes for public consultation. The defining procedure aims to improve transparency and enforceability of the access rules, data formats and communication deadlines for all market partners (electricity suppliers, train operating companies, vehicle owners and DB Netze Energy). The BNetzA’s intention by introducing this procedure is to strengthen the responsibility of the owners of railway vehicles. In order to supply the traction current grid operator with binding usage data in due time, this information will be provided by vehicle owners in future. This will improve the quality and speed of the access processes all the way through to settlement. DB Netze Energy welcomes this further development in its role as the traction current grid operator. After the BNetzA has evaluated numerous statements, the business processes defined by the Federal agency are expected to be adopted in 2022. As part of this process, an appropriate transitional period will be required to allow the necessary IT systems to be developed by all market partners involved.
