OCPP: What is OCPP, and why is it important?
What is OCPP?
OCPP, or its longer name, Open Charge Point Protocol, is the language spoken between an EV charger and its back-office system. Or in more technical jargon, an open-source communication protocol.
When an action is started on the charging point, the OCPP software immediately chats to the other side (the back office system), allowing for a seamless, secure operation. It’s what allows your EV charger to send updates, take commands, report issues, and do its job without getting lost in translation.
The Open Charge Alliance (OCA) created OCPP in 2009. Why? To standardise electric vehicle charging.
But, while standardised, it’s not stale.
In fact, OCPP is constantly being refreshed and revamped to maintain the highest quality experience in electric vehicle charging. And, because OCPP standardises, different brands of chargers, all in a variety of colours, techs and specs, can work together.
Examples of OCPP in action
Here are some examples of OCPP EV charging to make it easier to digest and visualise:
EV Charger |
EV Charging Network (Back-End Office System) |
| EV driver taps an RFID card. | Authenticates user |
| Sends “Start Transaction” via OCPP | Starts the session, begins billing |
| Sends status updates | Tracks energy used in real-time |
| User stops session | Sends “Stop Transaction” |
| Shows total cost | Records session sends the receipt. |
What is the timeline?
Believe it or not, OCPP software has developed over time, constantly changing.
Let’s take a closer look at the timeline to see which generation we are on.
Are there any benefits to OCPP chargers?
All-in-all, OCPP protocol keeps EV charging moving. No matter the manufacturer or the user.
Whether you’re starting a charge, checking status, or running remote maintenance, it keeps the whole conversation flowing smoothly. Succinctly. Providing a number of perks to EV drivers and chargepoint owners.
Here are the specific benefits of OCPP:
1. Interoperability and freedom of choice
Firstly, OCPP enables interoperability. Or, in layman’s terms, it’s open software.
What does it mean? Manufacturers and back-office providers aren’t locked in with one sole provider. They can swap, choose and change. This means more choices for everyone, better compatibility and an all-around improved EV charging experience.
2. Future-proof, adjustable operations
Secondly, OCPP allows future-proof EV charging operations. New smart feature? New pricing structure? New authorisation process? Push it live through the software from the get-go.
So, if you want to offer dynamic pricing or a specialised rate to loyal customers, OCPP allows just that. And more.
3. Quick, remote diagnostics
Thirdly, OCPP compliant EV chargers allow remote diagnostics. Wherever and whenever you are, you can monitor the status of an EV charging point without having to be on-site. Simply flick up the app and check your chargers.
An issue? Find the fix instantly. Then, save time and money by only deploying an installer once, not twice. And keep your customers happy.
4. Advanced security
Security is arguably the most important benefit. Ensure safe, secure EV charging sessions with OCPP-compliant EV charging points.
The latest and greatest OCPP 2.01 ensures Transport Layer Security (TLS), preventing eavesdropping, detecting tampering, and offering protection against malicious impersonators.
All compliant EV chargers encrypt data, too.
Never fret about payments again, even if an EV charger looks a little worse for wear.
5. High quality charging experience
To be frank, OCPP sets the industry standard in EV charging. Implementing OCPP compliant chargers therefore keeps the bar raised and ensures all charge point operations are held the highest standards. Always.
6. Smarter charging
With enhanced software, comes smarter actions. Unlike basic “plug-and-play” chargers, OCPP-enabled ones can offer features like scheduled charging, vendor lock, set charging profiles. All because of seamless communication.
Smarter charging, not harder charging.
Conclusion:
In short, OCPP is the standardised language that an EV charger and its back-office system use to speak to each other for functionality. Across the board, it offers a number of benefits, including interoperability, freedom of choice, future-proof operations, quick, remote EV charging point diagnostics, and stricter security.
Summary:
- OCPP meaning: OCPP means Open Charge Point Protocol, and is the language between an EV charger and its back-office system.
- It’s an open-source protocol designed for seamless, secure interaction.
- When a charging action begins, the charger instantly communicates with the backend, enabling actions such as: real-time updates, command processing and issue reporting.
- Created in 2009 by the Open Charge Alliance (OCA) to standardise EV charging across different systems.
- Despite its standardisation, developers continually update it to improve quality and performance.
- Its open nature allows chargers from different brands (with varying technologies and designs) to work together smoothly.
Interested in OCPP-compliant hardware and software? We have the EV charging solutions.
Implementing OCPP compliant hardware and software is essential to compete in this day and age. Don’t fall behind. Get yours today.
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