Tag: Standardisierung

  • DC technology as the key to the energy transition

    DC technology as the key to the energy transition

    Direct current is gaining strategic importance. The OVE DC Day 2025, organised in cooperation with the Smart Grids Austria technology platform, brought together around 80 international experts. Key topics included so-called DC microgrids, local energy grids that network renewable energies, storage systems and consumers on a direct current basis.

    These systems enable significantly more efficient energy distribution, for example in buildings, data centres, industry and self-sufficient island grids. Their potential is also evident in electromobility, for example through the direct coupling of charging infrastructure with renewable power generation.

    Focus on standardisation and safety
    In addition to specific fields of application, technical and normative aspects were also discussed. The speakers presented experiences from ongoing DC pilot projects, new regulatory frameworks and progress in standardisation. It was particularly emphasised that parallel projects are essential in order to create robust standards for DC technology.

    Inspiration from the industry
    With keynote speeches by Yannick Neyret (Schneider Electric) and Friederich Kupzog (AIT) as well as expert contributions from well-known companies, the DC Day offered a high-calibre overview of current developments. The focus was on practical insights from the industry and targeted dialogue between experts. An ideal basis for accelerated knowledge transfer.

    Direct current as an accelerator of the energy transition
    A highlight was the panel discussion with leading figures from the industry, including representatives from Siemens, Eaton, AIT, Schneider Electric and the Fraunhofer Institute. Under the moderation of Karl-Heinz Mayer (Eaton), it became clear that DC systems are ready for widespread use. Provided that standardisation and safety develop at the same time as the technology.

  • New principles for data exchange in the construction process

    New principles for data exchange in the construction process

    For over three decades, SIA 451 has formed the basis for standardised data exchange in the construction industry. Originally conceived as a guideline for bills of quantities, it defined how data fields should be structured and exchanged as early as 1992. Supplemented by modern requirements, such as the integration of images and memos, the standard has continuously adapted to the needs of the industry. Nevertheless, a fundamental revision was long overdue.

    New content and objectives of the revision
    The revised SIA 451 not only defines the processes and terms of information and data exchange, but also sets clear requirements for delivery objects, IT infrastructures and quality assurance. The introduction of a standardised information management process regulates the following aspects:

    Clear definition of interfaces and data structures
    Quality assurance:
    Standards for the testing and certification of software solutions.

    IT infrastructure:
    Requirements for technology and expertise of the players.

    These innovations ensure that the standard will continue to serve as the basis for advanced solutions and standards in the construction industry in the future.

    Relevance for construction practice
    The importance of SIA 451 for the construction process can hardly be overestimated. It is not only the basis for numerous software solutions, but also an essential component of communication between all stakeholders – from planning and procurement to the operation and maintenance of buildings. By promoting open standards, it creates transparency and access for all market participants. This strengthens collaboration and enables technological innovations to be integrated efficiently.

    A standard for the future
    The revision of SIA 451 represents a decisive step towards the digital transformation of the construction and planning industry. The revised content sets new standards for data exchange and creates a solid basis for future developments. SIA 451 thus remains an indispensable tool for everyone working in the construction industry.