Reliable and efficient electricity supply to geographically distributed customers is the main task of the Distribution System Operators (DSOs). An increasing number of grid-related data sources is in principle accessible to DSOs, but this information is in most cases not yet utilized for grid operation. Leveraging measurements and ICT reachability of Smart Meters and grid connected systems (such as Intelligent Electronic Devices) for digital distribution grid operation is challenging as it requires resilient and secure data collection, and data-quality aware processing and distribution system control solutions. The Net2DG project will develop a proof-of-concept solution based on off-the-shelf computing hardware that uses existing communication technologies to leverage measurement capabilities of Smart Meters and DER inverters deployed in low-voltage (LV) grids. The solution will correlate this data with information from existing DSO subsystems in order to provide novel LV grid observability applications for voltage quality, grid operation efficiency and LV grid outage diagnosis. The resulting observability is subsequently used by specifically developed robust control and coordination approaches, which utilize existing actuation capabilities for voltage quality enhancement and loss minimization in the LV grid. The use of off-the shelf components, the system level resilience and security solution, and the offered customizability of the Net2DG approach specifically address the needs of small and medium-sized DSOs (less than 100.000 clients). Therefore, the Net2DG solution will make small and medium-sized DSOs early adopters of digital technologies for LV outage diagnosis, grid operation efficiency and voltage quality. The Net2DG solutions will be developed by a consortium including two small and medium-sized DSOs from two different European countries, academic partners, SME and startup technology companies, as well as Smart Meter and inverter vendors.

The project "FORCE" - Fostering Optimal Regulatory Compliance for Cryptocurrencies: An Interdisciplinary Approach - addresses the urgent need for innovative Anti-Money Laundering (AML) systems tailored to the rapidly evolving cryptocurrency ecosystem. Cryptocurrencies, including decentralised finance (DeFi) platforms, have significantly changed the global financial landscape, enhancing financial inclusivity and operational efficiency. However, these technologies' pseudonymous and decentralised nature also creates vulnerabilities that traditional AML systems cannot adequately address. This project aims to bridge this gap through an interdisciplinary research program combining blockchain analytics (business), artificial intelligence (AI), quantum-safe cryptography (cybersecurity), regulatory compliance frameworks (legal), decentralised finance (finance), digital EURO (business and management), education and training. By uniting expertise from academic institutions and dynamic SMEs across Europe, the project will facilitate the development of real-time, efficient, and secure solutions to combat money laundering and financial crime in cryptocurrency markets. Additionally, the project will promote cross-border collaboration, a key priority of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Staff Exchange Program, ensuring that these AML systems are globally applicable and aligned with international regulatory frameworks. The overarching objective of FORCE is to create novel, scalable, and future-proof AML solutions for cryptocurrency ecosystems. Specifically, the research will focus on the following objectives: blockchain analytics & AI for AML, quantum-safe cryptography, global regulatory compliance, and cross-border AML enforcement.