Seminar: Cryptography for Smart Meters
Smart meters are necessary for a successful "Energiewende" in order to coordinate consumption with the supply. In addition, smart meters enable so-called time-of-use (TOU) tariffs, at which the electricity price adapts to the current load. Therefore, for a clear billing it requires very fine-grained consumption data, which is transmitted to the operator. However, this allows very accurate data to be derived on habits, working hours, religious affiliation or holiday periods. This information is interesting for advertisers and potential burglars alike.
The aim of this seminar is to help students understand how to address these issues with cryptographic techniques such as secure multiparty computation and zero knowledge proofs, ensuring consumer privacy while, at the same time, allowing the provider to determine how much electricity is needed in which areas and to charge the appropriate amount at the end of the billing period. Previous knowledge of cryptography is advantageous for participation. The presentations will be held in English.