Bilanzkreisverantwortliche

Bilanzkreisverordnung, abbreviated BiKV, is a German regulation governing balancing group accounting in the electricity market. It defines how Bilanzkreise (balancing groups) are formed, operated, and dissolved, and assigns responsibilities to market participants involved in balancing the grid’s energy needs. The regulation introduces key roles such as the Bilanzkreisverantwortlicher (the entity responsible for the energy balance of a Bilanzkreis) and the Bilanzkoordinator (the coordinating party within a Bilanzkreis), and it sets out the procedures for data exchange and settlement related to balancing energy.

Scope and core concepts

A Bilanzkreis represents a set of metering points and energy flows that are treated as a single balancing unit for settlement purposes. The Bilanzkreisverantwortlicher is responsible for ensuring the accuracy of energy balance data, submitting required information to the transmission system operators (TSOs), and coordinating with other market participants to achieve correct balance. The Bilanzkoordinator assists in the reconciliation and allocation of energy across the Bilanzkreis, particularly at interfaces and cross-border points. The BiKV standardizes data formats, reporting deadlines, and data quality requirements to support timely and accurate settlement.

Data exchange and settlement

BiKV prescribes the collection and transmission of metering data (Zählerdaten) and settlement data to TSOs and other market participants. It outlines processes for balance closure, imbalance settlements, and the handling of discrepancies or non-compliance, including penalties or corrective actions. The regulation thus links measurement, scheduling, and financial settlement to maintain system security and reliable grid operation.

Relation to other regulation

BiKV operates within the broader German and European regulatory framework for electricity markets, including the EnWG and related market rules, and is administered by the Federal Network Agency (Bundesnetzagentur) in consultation with TSOs and market participants.