INSPIRE data and metadata harmonisation in the energy saving domain

The module provides an overview of the procedures used to transform heterogeneous source datasets and metadata according to the relevant INSPIRE target schemas and describes the steps needed in the harmonization process. The module explains how to analyse the data models (source and target) and how to utilize matching tables in order to perform the mapping between source data and INSPIRE target schema elements. It gives an overview of some transformation tools in order to help the selection of the most suitable one. It provides examples of transformation of a source dataset containing energy performance certificates of buildings into a dataset compliant to the technical requirements of the applicable Implementing Rules and Technical Guidelines of INSPIRE. In the example an extension of the INSPIRE Building data model is used as target schema.

The principles of validation, as a necessary step to check/claim the compliance of the harmonized data and/or metadata to the relevant specification, are introduced. It shows, step by step, a schema transformation process, starting from the analysis of the source dataset and of its data model and the analysis of the applicable INSPIRE Data Specification. Practical examples about the use of the matching table, as useful tool to document the mapping process between the elements of the source dataset and the INSPIRE data model elements, are provided.

Through the use of a selected tool, the transformation process is practically explained, showing also the “live” validation of the mapping being performed against the relevant INSPIRE application schema. At the end, a demonstration is given of how to generate a harmonized GML dataset. Using different tools, examples are given on how to validate existing metadata and/or create compliant metadata according to INSPIRE Implementing Rules for Metadata (Commission Regulation (EC) No 1205/2008). Examples are also given on integrating the six additional metadata elements for interoperability required by INSPIRE Implementing Rules for interoperability of spatial data sets and services (Commission Regulation (EU) No 1089/2010). This module shows how to assess the degree of conformity to the requirements specified by Commission Regulation (EU) No 1089/2010 relevant to a GML dataset belonging to INSPIRE Annex I/II/III data themes. Conformity is assessed through an Executable Test Suite (ETS), i.e. physical implementation of the Abstract Test Suite (ATS) defined in the Annex A of the Data Specifications.

The training material consist of presentations. The module is a self-learning module.

This module is composed of the following learning units:

1. Overview of the EU energy policies
2. Introduction to INSPIRE
3. Principles of INSPIRE data and metadata harmonisation
4. INSPIRE Data transformation and validation
5. INSPIRE metadata editing and validation

After the training module, the participant will be able to:

• identify and describe the steps needed to perform a data/metadata harmonization
• identify the applicable regulations/guidelines needed in an harmonization and/or validation process
• evaluate the complexity of a data/metadata harmonization process
• identify and understand the source and target data models
• fill-in a matching table and perform a data transformation from a non-harmonized source dataset into an harmonized one
• export a harmonized GML dataset
• assess the conformity of an INSPIRE GML dataset
• create and validate INSPIRE compliant metadata

GIS and ICT professionals and students who aim to understand the principles of an INSPIRE harmonization process and to apply them in a thematic domain.

No specific prerequisites are required for this module but basic knowledge about INSPIRE may help.

Presentations. The module includes practical exercises. The module is a self-learning module.