Digitalization of the cross-departmental information process for technical connection requests

Initial situation

What was the situation up to now?

The BKW Energie AG is facing the challenge of adapting the capacity of its distribution networks to the increasing power demand of its customers as an energy provider. Homeowners must register their planned installations (heat pumps, photovoltaic systems, wind turbines, charging stations, energy storage systems, emergency generators, etc.) with BKW. BKW then checks whether the power capacities in the corresponding transformer circuit are sufficient or how the distribution network needs to be expanded. In such cases, the requests must be considered and planned in BKW’s medium- and long-term expansion planning.

The number of technical connection requests has significantly increased due to the energy transition, posing a challenge for BKW to process the requests efficiently and in a timely manner. The previous process for receiving requests was characterized by media discontinuities, with some request data being redundantly recorded. A new workflow solution aims to optimize cross-departmental information flow, reduce media disruptions, and thereby increase efficiency both in collaboration between departments and in customer communication.

Customer benefits

What has improved as a result of the solution?

The process solution implemented by FROX supports both the Network Connection Management team and the Network Technology Project Management team in handling technical connection requests with insufficient network capacity, as well as the associated installation notifications. The required data is read via an interface from the installer application forms and automatically transferred to a corresponding request dossier.

Since months or even years can pass from the initial technical assessment to the planning and implementation of a necessary network expansion, it is crucial to keep the requests under control throughout the process. Tasks are assigned to individual teams through workflows, and a notification dashboard assists process participants with internal communication.

• Complete control over all ongoing requests and inquiries
• Overview of the status of requested services
• Ability to provide information to applicants at any time
• Automated notification of customers and professional partners upon project completion and release of requested network capacities

Services

What services have we provided?

As a longstanding digitalization partner of BKW, FROX implemented this tailored application based on the Axon Ivy automation platform. Understanding the operational processes was crucial to designing and implementing the optimal solution in collaboration with the client.

Our services for BKW:

• Support in Requirements Engineering, Design and UX involvement, implementation support
• Solution architecture, agile software development (SCRUM), continuous delivery, project management
• Support and further development

Platforms & technology

Which platforms and technologies did we use?

• Axon Ivy

Industries

For which industry was the solution developed?

• Energy Sector