OCPP stands for "Open Charge Point Protocol".
It is a way of making sure that different EV charging stations and software can talk to each other and work well together. OCPP is like a common language that all EV charging companies can use, no matter what brand or model they have.
OCPP was created in 2009. It was designed to make EV charging easier and convenient for everyone. It is free and open for anyone to use and it helps EV charging companies to improve their products and services.
How does OCPP help EV drivers?
Choosing an OCPP-compliant EV charging station or software has many benefits for EV drivers, such as:- More choices: You can use any OCPP-compliant software to manage your EV charging station, or switch to a different one if you want. You can also find and use any OCPP-compliant charging station, no matter who owns or operates it.
- More security: You don’t have to worry about your EV charging station or software stopping working, even if the company that made them goes out of business or stops supporting them. You can always switch to another OCPP-compliant option.
- Smart functionality: You can enjoy the best features and services that EV charging companies can offer, because they are always trying to make their products better and more competitive with OCPP.
- Competitiveness: You can save money and avoid paying too much, because OCPP makes the EV charging market more fair and transparent.
How does OCPP work?
OCPP works by sending messages and data between the EV charging station (also called charge point) and the software that controls it (also called central system). These messages and data cover different things that happen during the EV charging process, such as:- Setting up and checking the station
- Booking and allowing access to the station
- Starting and stopping charging
- Measuring and reporting how much electricity is used
- Updating and fixing the station
OCPP messages and data are sent over a secure internet connection, using simple formats that anyone can understand. OCPP has different versions and options, depending on what features and functions the station or the software needs.
Where can I learn more about OCPP?
If you want to learn more about OCPP, you can visit:
- Open Charge Alliance: The official website of the group that makes and updates OCPP. Here you can find the latest news, rules, documents, tests, and members.