Archipels

Archipels is a French digital identity and document certification platform launched in 2020 as a consortium between major French public institutions including Caisse des Dépôts, La Poste, EDF, and ENGIE. The platform leverages a permissioned blockchain infrastructure using Proof of Authority consensus to provide document certification, identity verification, and Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI) services.

The platform's core technical infrastructure consists of a Layer 1 blockchain with 20 validation nodes operated by consortium members, coupled with a Layer 2 scalability solution using Merkle trees for improved transaction throughput. It implements Zero-Knowledge Proofs and selective disclosure capabilities to protect privacy while enabling verification of credentials. The platform supports the W3C Verifiable Credentials and DID standards, allowing users to:

• Create and verify digital credentials
• Manage decentralized identifiers
• Certify and authenticate documents
• Perform KYC/KYB verifications

In 2023, IN Groupe (formerly the French national printing office) joined as a strategic investor, strengthening the platform's position in anticipation of eIDAS 2.0 implementation. Notable implementations include:

• Document certification for VIALINK's KYC processes
• Pay slip certification with Digiposte
• Commercial court registry document verification
• Authentication services for Banque de France

The platform aims to become a European standard for decentralized digital identity while maintaining sovereignty and compliance with EU regulations. All infrastructure is hosted in France, with a focus on privacy-preserving features and reduced energy consumption compared to public blockchains.