Automating capacity bookings can make a world of difference. For Uniper, it led to major time savings and a smoother process for managing gas transport capacities across Europe.
We spoke with Patrick Braun, Senior Capacity Manager at Uniper, about how the company implemented the Shipper API, what changed afterwards, and which lessons other market participants can take away.
PRISMA: Patrick, you’ve been with Uniper for quite some time and were already involved in capacity booking before the Shipper API was introduced. What was it like back then?
Once the results came in, we received dozens of emails and had to manually enter every deal into our internal trading system Endur: copy, adjust IDs, dates, prices — all by hand. Then our back office validated everything. It was time-consuming and, of course, prone to error.
PRISMA: Was that the main reason for implementing the Shipper API?
Patrick Braun: Yes, the main goal was to automate the bidding and capturing process and reduce human error.
PRISMA: How complex was the implementation, and how did PRISMA support you?
Patrick Braun: It was quite a complex project because we use customised trading systems. The implementation took about six to ten months. PRISMA supported us throughout the process with clear documentation, coordination, and technical guidance.
PRISMA: And what has changed since?
Patrick Braun: A lot! Tasks that previously required several people can now be handled much more efficiently through automation. Our internal systems are now directly connected to PRISMA, sending bids automatically and staying within predefined limits. Successful deals flow back automatically, validated and ready to go. This has significantly reduced manual effort and freed up our teams to focus on higher-value tasks beyond day-to-day booking operations.
Overall, we've reduced the manual workload of these booking processes by around 90%. — Patrick Braun, Uniper.
PRISMA: Who would you recommend the Shipper API to?
Patrick Braun: To any PRISMA user who regularly participates in auctions — at least quarterly. It’s not about company size but frequency. If you’re actively booking capacities, the PRISMA API saves time and significantly reduces manual errors.
PRISMA: Any wishes or upcoming features you’d like to see?
Patrick Braun: Honestly, it runs so smoothly that I don’t have any big wishes right now. The API has been stable and reliable from the start — exactly how you’d want it to be.
PRISMA: Thank you for taking the time, Patrick!
If you’d like to learn more about the Shipper API, visit our Shipper Services Page.
For practical guidance, check our Knowledge Base — or reach out directly to our Customer Success Team.