EAN Code

An EAN code is the unique identification code of a connection to the electricity grid. EAN stands for European Article Number, but in the energy sector it refers to an 18-digit code that uniquely identifies each connection point on the electricity grid. In the Netherlands, such a code usually starts with 871, followed by 15 digits.

A large-scale industrial connection, such as that of a factory, has its own EAN code.

Connections within a GDS or MLOEA also each have their own EAN code.

Why is the EAN code important for GOPACS?

In GOPACS, the EAN code is used to:

• determine on which grid level (location) a connection is situated
• link the connection to a CSP that offers flexible capacity on its behalf
• check whether the offered flexible capacity is technically usable for a congestion issue
• validate and verify the activated capacity (e.g. using measurement data)

The EAN code is therefore an operational anchor in the system — it clarifies where flexibility comes from, who is responsible, and how it can be measured.

Back to Glossary