Open charge point interface (OCPI): Definition, versions, compliance, and software

Open charge point interface (OCPI) is an open communication protocol that enables charge point operators (CPOs) and eMobility service providers (eMSPs) to exchange data. OCPI standardizes information on charging locations, tariffs, sessions, and authentication. It matters because it allows EV drivers to roam between networks using one account, ensuring interoperability across charging platforms.

OCPI works through modular APIs that define how systems share data about charging sessions, costs, and availability. Key modules include locations, sessions and CDRs (Charge Detail Records), tokens, tariffs, and commands. OCPI uses HTTPS and JSON for secure, structured data exchange and supports both peer-to-peer and hub-based communication.

Open charge point interface has evolved through multiple versions. OCPI 2.1.1 focused on interoperability, OCPI 2.2.1 added advanced roaming and tariff transparency, OCPI 2.3.0 improved data quality and smart charging integration, and OCPI 3.0 aligned with ISO 15118 to support energy management. The main OCPI roles are the CPO, responsible for charger operation, and the eMSP, managing user access and billing.

OCPI ensures transparent billing, simpler roaming, and reliable data sharing between networks. Challenges remain in maintaining version compatibility and data accuracy. Unlike OCPP, which links charge points to management systems, OCPI connects operator and service provider backends. Monta offers OCPI-compliant software that enables seamless interoperability, real-time monitoring, and cross-network scalability for CPOs and eMSPs.

What is open charge point interface (OCPI)?

Open charge point interface (OCPI) is an open communication protocol that enables automated data exchange between electric vehicle (EV) charging market participants. OCPI is designed to connect charge point operators (CPOs) and eMobility service providers (eMSPs) through standardized APIs. The core purpose of OCPI is to ensure roaming, transparent billing, and real-time data sharing across different charging networks.

OCPI is used by several stakeholder groups:

1. Charge point operators (CPOs) manage and maintain charging infrastructure.
2. eMobility service providers (eMSPs) offer charging services and billing to EV drivers.
3. Roaming hubs act as intermediaries to simplify data exchange between networks.
4. Fleet operators and integrators use OCPI to access multi-network charging data and optimize operations.

OCPI facilitates communication between independent systems through secure API-based data transfer. Open charge point interface enables roaming across networks, tariff and pricing exchange, real-time charger status updates, authentication through tokens, and automated charge session management.

OCPI aligns with other EV standards such as the open charge point protocol (OCPP) and ISO 15118. OCPP connects physical chargers to management systems, while OCPI connects business backends. Together, OCPI and OCPP protocols form a complete ecosystem for efficient, interoperable EV charging.

Why does OCPI matter in EV charging?

Open charge point interface (OCPI) matters because it ensures interoperability across independent EV charging networks. OCPI allows systems from different vendors to exchange data through a shared standard, removing technical barriers between operators and service providers. The open structure of OCPI enables seamless communication and transparency in a rapidly expanding charging ecosystem.

OCPI solves key problems for all market participants. Drivers use one account to access chargers from multiple networks without new registrations. Charge point operators gain standardized access to external partners and roaming platforms, reducing manual integrations. eMobility service providers manage pricing, authentication, and billing through a single interface. OCPI supports roaming, tariff exchange, and session synchronization, creating consistent user experiences across networks.

OCPI reduces vendor lock-in by promoting open and interoperable systems. Networks built on OCPI scale faster and connect more easily with new partners. The OCPI protocol drives competition, transparency, and innovation, which accelerates EV infrastructure growth. Broader OCPI adoption supports a unified European charging market, where users and operators benefit from connected, open, and efficient charging networks.

What is the history of OCPI protocol?

The history of OCPI protocol began in the Netherlands as an initiative by ElaadNL, a knowledge and innovation center for smart charging infrastructure. The open charge point interface protocol was created to establish a common language for data exchange between charge point operators (CPOs) and eMobility service providers (EMSPs). The initial purpose of OCPI was to enable roaming and simplify interoperability between independent charging networks in Europe.

OCPI was designed to solve a growing problem in the early EV market, where fragmented systems made it difficult for drivers to charge across different networks. Before OCPI, operators relied on closed, proprietary integrations that limited scalability and increased operational costs. By introducing standardized communication rules, OCPI allowed automated exchange of tariffs, sessions, and authentication data between systems.

OCPI is now developed and maintained by the EVRoaming Foundation, a non-profit organization that manages its governance, documentation, and version updates. The OCPI foundation oversees protocol evolution through an open, community-driven process, ensuring transparency and global compatibility. This structure keeps OCPI independent, vendor-neutral, and aligned with broader EV charging standards.

How does OCPI work in practice?

OCPI works by enabling structured data exchange between charge point operators (CPOs) and eMobility service providers (EMSPs). The list below outlines the main steps that ensure secure, reliable, and interoperable communication across charging networks.

1. Authentication and connection: Both parties establish a secure HTTPS link and authenticate through OCPI tokens, which confirm identity, access level, and authorization before any data transfer occurs.
2. Location and availability sharing: The CPO provides detailed information about charging stations, including address, connector type, power level, and operational status. Location and availability sharing data helps eMSPs display real-time availability to drivers.
3. Session and charging data exchange: OCPI manages live session information such as start and stop commands, energy consumption, and meter readings. The sessions and CDRs (Charge Detail Records) modules ensure consistent tracking of all charging activity.
4. Tariff and billing synchronization: The tariffs module allows transparent exchange of pricing information. After each session, data is reconciled to calculate costs and enable automatic settlement between providers.
5. Inter-module communication: Locations, sessions, tariffs, and tokens modules interact continuously to maintain accurate information across systems. The tokens module ensures driver authentication and access control.
6. Hub and roaming connectivity: OCPI supports both peer-to-peer and hub-based models. In hub mode, a central roaming platform connects multiple networks through one interface, reducing the need for direct integrations.
7. Security and data integrity: OCPI uses HTTPS encryption, version validation, and JSON formatting to protect transactions and maintain data accuracy.

Through these steps, OCPI provides a standardized, automated process that connects diverse EV charging systems into one interoperable ecosystem.

What is the OCPI architecture?

The OCPI architecture consists of the following core components that together enable seamless communication and interoperability across EV charging networks.

1. CPO system: Operates and monitors charge points, updates availability, manages sessions, and shares operational data with eMobility Service Providers (EMSPs) through OCPI modules.
2. eMSP system: Receives charge point information, displays real-time data such as location, availability, and price to users, and manages authentication, payment, and billing processes.
3. OCPI modules: Define structured data exchange for key functions. Locations provide charger details, Sessions and CDRs record charging activity, Tariffs outline pricing, Tokens manage access control, and Commands handle remote operations like start and stop.
4. API endpoints: Enable communication through standardized RESTful interfaces, ensuring data flows consistently between systems regardless of vendor or software.
5. Authentication layer: Uses OCPI tokens to verify identity and access rights before allowing data exchange, maintaining security and trust.
6. Data models: Apply uniform JSON structures that ensure consistent interpretation of information across networks and platforms.

What are the versions of OCPI protocol?

The versions of OCPI are OCPI 2.1.1, OCPI 2.2.1, OCPI 2.3.0 and OCPI 3.0. All OCPI protocol versions are designed to expand functionality, improve interoperability, and align with new industry standards. Each version introduces technical and operational upgrades that enhance roaming, data accuracy, and integration between charge point operators (CPOs) and eMobility Service Providers (EMSPs).

The list below demonstrates OCPI’s evolution toward stable, secure, and future-ready EV charging communication.

1. OCPI 2.1.1: Introduced improved interoperability and detailed data exchange for charging sessions and tariffs. It established a stable foundation for roaming and back-end communication.
2. OCPI 2.2.1: Added advanced tariff transparency, smart charging capabilities, and refined session management. It became the most widely implemented version across Europe.
3. OCPI 2.3.0: Focused on data quality, error handling, and streamlined communication workflows. It enhanced hub-based network connections and improved compliance alignment.
4. OCPI 3.0: Delivered major updates for energy management and ISO 15118 integration, supporting Plug & Charge functionality and advanced interoperability models.

Table: Overview of OCPI Versions

Version	Release Focus	Key Features
2.1.1	Interoperability foundation	Core modules for roaming, session tracking, and tariffs
2.2.1	Smart charging and pricing	Improved tariff structures, CDR precision, and token handling
2.3.0	Data reliability and scalability	Enhanced error reporting, hub optimization, and validation
3.0	ISO 15118 alignment	Energy management, Plug & Charge support, and extended flexibility

OCPI 2.1.1

OCPI 2.1.1 is the first widely adopted stable release of the open charge point interface protocol. OCPI 2.1.1 was officially published by ElaadNL in 2017 to establish a consistent and open framework for data exchange between charge point operators (CPOs) and eMobility service providers (eMSPs). The first OCPI version addressed early market fragmentation where proprietary integrations made roaming and billing between networks complex and inconsistent.

OCPI 2.1.1 standardized essential modules for the first time, including Locations, Sessions, Tariffs, Tokens, and CDRs (Charge Detail Records) to define how systems share charger information, session data, pricing, and authentication details. The OCPI 2.1.1 version also introduced HTTPS security, token-based authentication, and structured JSON data models, creating a unified language across the EV charging ecosystem.

OCPI 2.1.1 established the operational foundation for interoperability and transparent data exchange that later versions expanded upon.

OCPI 2.2.1

OCPI 2.2.1 is an enhanced version of the Open Charge Point Interface protocol, officially released by the EVRoaming Foundation in 2020. OCPI 2.2.1 was built upon OCPI 2.1.1 to improve roaming efficiency, data transparency, and smart charging functionality. OCPI 2.1.1 became the most widely implemented across Europe due to its stability and compatibility with multiple network setups.

OCPI 2.2.1 addressed limitations in data accuracy, tariff complexity, and roaming flexibility found in earlier releases. It refined the structure of CDRs (Charge Detail Records) and Sessions to support more precise metering and energy reporting. The new OCPI version introduced extended Tariffs definitions, clearer Token handling for user identification, and better synchronization between CPO and EMSP systems.

OCPI 2.2.1 standardized advanced functions such as partial CDR uploads, improved authorization flows, and detailed error handling. OCPI 2.2.1 also introduced support for hub-based communication and more efficient version management.

OCPI 2.3.0

OCPI 2.3.0 is a refined version of the open charge point interface protocol released by the EVRoaming Foundation in 2022. It focused on improving reliability, scalability, and data quality across roaming networks. The OCPI 2.3.0 version streamlined communication between charge point operators (CPOs), eMobility service providers (EMSPs), and hub platforms, making cross-network operations more efficient and consistent.

OCPI 2.3.0 resolved several limitations from OCPI 2.2.1, including inconsistent error handling, version conflicts, and limited hub interoperability. OCPI 2.3.0 optimized the Sessions and CDRs (Charge Detail Records) modules for better event tracking and introduced clearer update mechanisms for Locations and Tariffs.

OCPI 2.3.0 standardized hub communication, improved message validation, and introduced stronger data governance rules to maintain synchronization between systems. The OCPI 2.3.0 version also refined module interaction to support future smart charging and energy management features.

OCPI 3.0

OCPI 3.0 is the latest version of the open charge point interface protocol, officially released by the EVRoaming Foundation in 2024. OCPI 3.0 represents a major update aimed at aligning OCPI with emerging energy and communication standards, particularly ISO 15118, to support advanced features such as Plug & Charge and smart energy management. The release of OCPI 3.0 positions OCPI as a central component in the integration of EV charging with wider energy and mobility ecosystems.

OCPI 3.0 addressed the fragmentation and limited flexibility found in earlier versions by introducing unified message handling, improved error reporting, and expanded data models. OCPI 3.0 strengthened interoperability between peer-to-peer and hub-based systems, ensuring consistent behavior across complex roaming environments. The latest OCPI version improved the scalability of roaming platforms and established stronger governance for module interactions.

OCPI 3.0 standardized new functionalities, including enhanced energy flow data, multi-contract management, and extended support for vehicle-to-grid (V2G) communication. The OCPI 3.0 version also simplified future updates through modular versioning and clearer compliance definitions.

What are the key modules of OCPI?

The key modules of the open charge point interface (OCPI) protocol are listed below.

1. Locations: Shares detailed information about charging stations, including address, GPS coordinates, connector types, power levels, and real-time availability. Locations module ensures drivers and EMSPs have accurate, up-to-date visibility of all charging points.
2. Sessions: Tracks active charging sessions in real time, including start time, duration, energy transferred, and charger status. It synchronizes live usage data between CPO and EMSP systems.
3. CDRs (Charge Detail Records): Provides final session data for billing and settlement, including total energy used, cost, and time stamps. CDRs ensure consistent financial reporting and transparency between parties.
4. Tokens: Manages driver authentication and authorization using RFID cards, mobile apps, or digital identifiers. Tokens allow users to access multiple networks through one account.
5. Tariffs: Defines the structure of charging prices, including rates per kWh, per minute, or per session. Tariffs maintain transparent pricing information across connected networks.
6. Commands: Enables remote operations such as starting or stopping a charging session, unlocking connectors, or reserving a charging point. The Commands module ensures responsive and controlled network management.

Locations

The Locations module in the open charge point interface (OCPI) protocol provides detailed information about every charging site within a network. The Locations module includes the station’s name, address, GPS coordinates, operator identification, available connectors, charging power levels, and real-time operational status. Locations allow systems to describe precisely where and how a vehicle can charge.

The Locations module enables eMobility service providers (eMSPs) to display accurate, live information to drivers. Through the Locations data, eMSPs can show which stations are active, which connectors are in use, and what charging speeds are available.

Charge point operators (CPOs) maintain and update Locations data through OCPI’s standardized API endpoints. Each change in availability, maintenance status, or configuration is transmitted in real time to all connected eMSPs. The automated data synchronization ensures consistent and reliable visibility across different networks and platforms.

Sessions and CDRs (Charge Detail Records)

The Sessions and CDRs (Charge Detail Records) modules in the open charge point interface (OCPI) protocol manage the recording, tracking, and reporting of charging activity between networks. Sessions and CDRs ensure that both charge point operators (CPOs) and eMobility service providers (EMSPs) maintain consistent, synchronized records of every charging event from start to finish.

The Sessions module captures live session data such as start and stop times, duration, charging power, and total energy transferred. Sessions provide real-time updates while the charging process is active, allowing EMSPs to display accurate session status and progress to drivers. Once the session ends, all relevant data is transferred to the CDRs module.

The CDRs module finalizes the transaction by compiling verified data for billing and settlement. CDRs calculate total consumption, applied tariffs, and total costs, ensuring accurate and transparent financial reporting between providers. The Sessions and CDRs modules work together to create a standardized and traceable record of every charging session, maintaining accountability and trust across connected charging networks.

Tokens (user identification)

The Tokens module in the open charge point interface (OCPI) protocol manages the identification and authentication of electric vehicle (EV) drivers across different charging networks. Its main function is to verify user credentials, ensuring that only authorized drivers can start, stop, or access a charging session through their preferred eMobility service provider (EMSP).

Tokens are unique identifiers—such as RFID cards, mobile app IDs, or digital credentials—generated and maintained by eMSPs. Tokens are shared securely with charge point operators (CPOs) through OCPI’s API to enable cross-network access. When a driver initiates a charging session, the CPO validates the token with the eMSP to confirm authorization before power delivery begins.

The Tokens module ensures secure authentication during roaming by maintaining encrypted communication and real-time synchronization between both parties. The standardized process around Tokens prevents unauthorized use, enables seamless access across networks, and supports a unified charging experience for EV drivers throughout interconnected systems.

Tariffs and pricing

The Tariffs module in the open charge point interface (OCPI) protocol defines and communicates pricing information for charging services across networks. Its role is to ensure that eMobility service providers (eMSPs) and charge point operators (CPOs) exchange accurate, structured tariff data that reflects real-time costs for energy consumption, session duration, and other charging conditions.

The Tariffs and Pricing module supports multiple tariff structures, including time-based, kWh-based, and session-based pricing. It can also combine several elements, such as different rates for peak hours, idle fees, or connector types. By structuring this data in a standardized format, OCPI allows all parties to interpret and apply pricing rules consistently.

Accurate tariff communication improves transparency for end users by displaying clear, predictable prices before and during charging. Drivers can compare rates across networks, avoid hidden costs, and make informed decisions about where to charge.

Commands (remote start/stop)

The Commands module in the open charge point interface (OCPI) protocol enables remote control of charging sessions between charge point operators (CPOs) and eMobility service providers (EMSPs). The primary function of the Commands module is to transmit operational commands—such as starting, stopping, or unlocking a connector—through secure, standardized API communication.

CPOs use Commands to receive and execute remote instructions from eMSPs on behalf of drivers. When a user initiates a charge through an app or RFID card, the eMSP sends a command request to the CPO system, which then activates or terminates the charging session at the physical charger. The Commands module ensures fast, automated coordination between digital platforms and charging hardware.

The Commands module improves customer control by allowing remote session management and instant troubleshooting. Commands also enhance operational efficiency by reducing manual interventions, enabling automated error recovery, and ensuring seamless service continuity across different networks and hardware types.

Hub and peer-to-peer communication options

The open charge point interface (OCPI) protocol supports two main communication methods: peer-to-peer and hub-based. Both peer-to-peer and hub-based models define how charge point operators (CPOs) and eMobility service providers (eMSPs) exchange operational and financial data within the EV charging ecosystem.

In the peer-to-peer model, each CPO and eMSP establishes a direct API connection. The peer-to-peer setup provides full control over data exchange and ensures maximum flexibility for bilateral integrations. However, as the number of partners grows, managing multiple direct connections can become complex and resource-intensive.

The hub-based model connects all participants through a central roaming hub, which routes data between networks. The hub-based approach simplifies scaling by requiring only one integration per party. Hub-based models enhance interoperability, reduce connection overhead, and improve data routing efficiency across large ecosystems. Together, both peer-to-peer and hub-based models allow OCPI to adapt to different network sizes and technical architectures while maintaining standardized communication and consistent data flow.

What are the key roles in OCPI protocol?

The key roles stakeholders in the open charge point interface (OCPI) protocol are the charge point operator (CPO) and the eMobility Service Provider (EMSP). CPOs and eMSPs form the foundation of interoperability within the EV charging ecosystem. The CPO manages and maintains charging infrastructure, ensuring chargers remain available, operational, and connected to the network. The eMSP provides charging access, payment solutions, and customer interfaces that allow drivers to locate, start, and pay for charging sessions.

Through OCPI, these entities exchange real-time information such as charger locations, availability, tariffs, authentication tokens, and session data. OCPI’s automated data flow enables roaming, where drivers can charge across different networks using a single account, and ensures accurate billing and transparent data exchange between service providers. By defining how CPOs and eMSPs communicate through standardized APIs, OCPI eliminates fragmentation, promotes competition, and builds a unified and scalable EV charging environment.

CPO (charge point operator)

A charge point operator (CPO) manages and maintains EV charging stations, using the open charge point interface (OCPI) protocol to share standardized data with eMobility service providers (EMSPs). The CPO ensures the technical operation, availability, and connectivity of all charging points in its network, publishing real-time information on station status, connector types, power capacity, pricing, and availability through OCPI modules such as Locations, Sessions, and Tariffs.

CPOs maintain accurate charge detail records (CDRs) for transparent billing and settlement while ensuring compliance with OCPI standards through secure APIs and data verification. Their operations create the foundation for interoperability, enabling seamless integration with EMSP platforms and delivering a consistent charging experience for users across networks.

eMSP (eMobility service provider)

An eMobility service provider (EMSP) connects EV drivers to multiple charging networks by using the open charge point interface (OCPI) protocol to manage authentication, roaming, and billing. Acting as the user-facing service provider, the eMSP gives drivers access to chargers operated by different charge point operators (CPOs) through a single account or app, using OCPI modules such as Tokens, Tariffs, and CDRs (Charge Detail Records) to verify identity, display pricing, and process billing data.

The standardized data exchange provided by OCPI enables seamless roaming and flexible payment options across networks. By integrating OCPI, EMSPs remove the need for closed agreements or separate subscriptions, improving accessibility and convenience for EV drivers while ensuring interoperability across the entire charging ecosystem.

What are the most important OCPI use cases?

The most important OCPI use cases are listed below.

1. Roaming between CPOs and EMSPs: Allows EV drivers to access and use charging stations across different networks with one account. OCPI automates data exchange between charge point operators (CPOs) and eMobility service providers (eMSPs), removing the need for separate contracts and ensuring seamless cross-network charging.
2. Data transparency and settlement: Standardizes how charging session data, tariffs, and charge detail records (CDRs) are shared. Data transparency ensures accurate billing, reliable transaction reporting, and clear financial reconciliation between service providers.
3. Dynamic pricing and smart charging integration: Enables real-time tariff updates and integration with energy management systems. OCPI supports flexible pricing models and smart charging features that balance grid demand, optimize costs, and promote efficient energy use across networks.

Roaming between CPOs and eMSPs

OCPI enables EV drivers to charge across different networks by allowing charge point operators (CPOs) and eMobility service providers (EMSPs) to exchange authentication, pricing, and session data in real time. Using standardized modules such as Tokens, Locations, and Tariffs, OCPI authenticates drivers, shares charger availability, and ensures consistent pricing information across networks, creating a unified and seamless user experience.

Unlike traditional closed-network models, OCPI-based roaming offers greater flexibility and convenience. Drivers gain access to a wider network of charging stations through one account or app, while operators and service providers expand their reach without costly integrations. OCPI supports market growth, enhances accessibility, and fosters collaboration across the EV charging ecosystem.

Data transparency and settlement

OCPI ensures data transparency by standardizing how session records, tariffs, and billing details are exchanged and verified across providers. Through structured APIs and shared data models, charge point operators (CPOs) and eMobility service providers (eMSPs) can exchange consistent, verifiable information about every charging transaction, supporting fair pricing, accurate reporting, and greater trust across the charging ecosystem.

Using modules such as Sessions and CDRs (Charge Detail Records), OCPI records live charging activity, finalizes energy and cost data, and automates settlements between providers. OCPI’s real-time, tamper-proof synchronization minimizes manual reconciliation, reduces administrative work, and prevents billing disputes—creating a transparent, efficient, and accountable EV charging environment for all participants.

Dynamic pricing and smart charging integration

Through OCPI’s Tariffs and Commands modules, operators implement real-time pricing and smart charging strategies that respond to energy grid demand. The OCPI protocol allows charge point operators (CPOs) and eMobility service providers (eMSPs) to share live pricing data and remotely control charging sessions based on grid capacity, energy availability, or market conditions, enabling flexible tariff adjustments that reflect real-time energy use.

The Tariffs module defines dynamic pricing structures that adjust according to time, consumption, or network load, while the Commands module enables remote control of charging sessions for load balancing and energy optimization. By linking EV infrastructure with smart grid systems, OCPI enables a shift toward flexible, data-driven energy management and sustainable charging operations.

What are the benefits of OCPI?

The major benefits of OCPI are listed below.

1. Interoperability and roaming freedom: OCPI enables seamless roaming across networks, allowing EV drivers to use charging stations operated by different providers through a single account or app.
2. Data transparency and standardization: The protocol defines unified data formats for sessions, tariffs, and authentication, ensuring clear and consistent information exchange between systems.
3. Scalability and flexibility: OCPI’s modular structure allows networks to expand easily, integrate new partners, and maintain backward compatibility across updates.
4. Reduced integration costs: Standardized APIs eliminate the need for custom technical connections, reducing setup time and operational expenses for both CPOs and EMSPs.
5. Improved billing and settlement accuracy: Structured charge detail records (CDRs) and automated data synchronization ensure fair, traceable, and transparent financial transactions.
6. Enhanced user experience: Drivers benefit from real-time charger availability, transparent pricing, and reliable roaming access, improving confidence and convenience.
7. Support for smart charging and dynamic pricing: OCPI enables energy-efficient operations through tariff flexibility and smart load management aligned with grid conditions.
8. Vendor neutrality and open governance: Managed by the EVRoaming Foundation, OCPI’s open-source framework encourages innovation, prevents market lock-in, and ensures long-term interoperability across the global EV charging market.

What are the challenges and limitations of OCPI?

The most important challenges of the open charge point interface (OCPI) protocol are listed below.

1. Complex implementation and maintenance: Integrating OCPI requires technical expertise, especially for new charge point operators (CPOs) and eMobility service providers (EMSPs). Smaller operators may find it difficult to manage APIs, authentication, and module updates.
2. Version fragmentation: The coexistence of multiple OCPI versions—such as 2.1.1, 2.2.1, and 3.0—creates compatibility issues between partners. Networks using different versions may experience connection errors or limited functionality.
3. Data synchronization and latency: Differences in update frequency can cause inconsistencies in real-time charger status, pricing, or session information.
4. Limited smart grid integration: While OCPI supports dynamic pricing, it does not yet fully enable advanced functions such as vehicle-to-grid (V2G) communication or automatic load balancing.
5. Governance and compliance gaps: As an open-source protocol, OCPI lacks centralized control or certification enforcement, leading to variation in implementation quality.
6. Security and data privacy concerns: Although OCPI uses HTTPS and token-based authentication, improper setup or outdated configurations can create vulnerabilities in data protection.
7. Global adoption barriers: OCPI was developed in Europe and remains most widely used there. Differences in regional standards and regulations limit its full adoption in North America, Asia, and other global markets.

What is the difference between OCPI and OCPP?

The main difference between OCPI and OCPP is their communication scope and purpose within the EV charging ecosystem. Open charge point interface (OCPI) connects back-end systems between charge point operators (CPOs) and eMobility service providers (eMSPs), while OCPP (open charge point protocol) connects the physical charging station to the CPO’s management platform.

OCPP focuses on the technical operation of charging hardware. Open charge point protocol manages real-time communication between chargers and the central management system, handling tasks such as remote start and stop, firmware updates, and fault reporting. OCPI, on the other hand, governs the exchange of business-level data such as locations, tariffs, sessions, and user authentication between networks. Open charge point interface enables roaming, billing, and interoperability across different service providers.

Understanding the distinction between OCPI and OCPP is essential for EV industry professionals because both protocols complement each other. OCPP ensures reliable charger operation and connectivity, while OCPI ensures network-level interoperability and transparent data exchange. Together, they form a complete foundation for scalable, open, and efficient EV charging infrastructure.

What is the future of OCPI and EV interoperability?

The future of the Open Charge Point Interface (OCPI) is defined by growing interoperability demands, global standardization, and integration with smart energy systems. As electric mobility expands, OCPI will evolve to support seamless cross-border charging, automated settlements, and deeper connections between EV networks and the power grid.

Future OCPI development will focus on greater alignment with ISO 15118, OCPP 2.0.1, and emerging vehicle-to-grid (V2G) standards. Future OCPI updates will enable plug and charge authentication, dynamic energy routing, and real-time grid interaction. The OCPI protocol is also expected to adopt enhanced data security layers, machine-readable compliance tools, and cloud-based scalability to manage the increasing data volume from global charging infrastructure.

OCPI will continue to play a central role in creating an open, user-centric EV charging ecosystem. OCPI’s transparent, modular structure allows for continuous adaptation to new technologies and market models. By promoting vendor-neutral collaboration and standardized communication, OCPI will remain a cornerstone of scalable, efficient, and interoperable EV charging worldwide.

How to achieve OCPI compliance?

To achieve OCPI compliance, organizations must follow the key steps listed below.

1. Understand the OCPI specification: Companies should review the official documentation published by the EVRoaming Foundation, including version-specific requirements for modules, data models, and API behavior.
2. Select the appropriate version: Organizations need to determine which OCPI version—such as 2.2.1 or 3.0—aligns best with their technical infrastructure, regional standards, and partner systems.
3. Implement required modules: Core OCPI modules such as Locations, Tokens, Tariffs, Sessions, and CDRs (Charge Detail Records) must be correctly integrated and tested to ensure functional compatibility.
4. Establish secure communication: Authentication is managed through unique OCPI tokens. Secure HTTPS connections and encryption protocols should be used for both peer-to-peer and hub-based communication.
5. Test integration and data exchange: Interoperability testing between charge point operators (CPOs) and eMobility service providers (eMSPs) is essential to verify consistent data flow and accurate module operation.
6. Document and validate compliance: Validation can be performed using community testing frameworks or certification tools provided by the EVRoaming Foundation, helping partners confirm protocol conformity.
7. Maintain ongoing updates: Systems must stay aligned with new OCPI releases, governance revisions, and security improvements to preserve compatibility and compliance.

Official OCPI documentation, test tools, and developer resources are available on the EVRoaming Foundation website, which serves as the central authority for protocol governance and technical support.

What are the key features of an OCPI-compliant software?

The main features of an OCPI-compliant software are listed below.

1. Full module implementation: Supports all core OCPI modules, including Locations, Tokens, Sessions, CDRs (Charge Detail Records), Tariffs, and Commands, to enable complete interoperability.
2. Secure API communication: Uses encrypted HTTPS connections and token-based authentication to maintain data integrity and prevent unauthorized access in both peer-to-peer and hub-based setups.
3. Real-time data exchange: Synchronizes station status, availability, and session details instantly to keep information consistent across networks.
4. Version compatibility and upgradability: Maintains full support for major OCPI versions such as 2.1.1, 2.2.1, and 3.0, with scalable architecture for future updates.
5. Accurate tariff and billing integration: Ensures transparent cost calculation, automated settlement, and consistent pricing data between operators and service providers.
6. Smart charging support: Enables dynamic pricing, demand-based energy management, and integration with grid systems for optimized load distribution.
7. Comprehensive reporting and monitoring: Provides analytics dashboards for tracking usage, session data, energy performance, and roaming activity.
8. User and partner management: Facilitates efficient handling of relationships, permissions, and agreements between CPOs, EMSPs, and roaming hubs.
9. Compliance and certification alignment: Adheres to EVRoaming Foundation validation requirements and recognized best practices to guarantee full OCPI compliance and interoperability.

Does Monta Offer OCPI-Compliant EV charging software?

Yes, Monta offers fully OCPI-compliant EV charging software that supports seamless interoperability between charge point operators (CPOs), eMobility service providers (eMSPs), and roaming partners. Monta’s platform integrates all core OCPI modules—including Locations, Sessions, Tariffs, Tokens, CDRs, and Commands—to ensure accurate data exchange, transparent pricing, and real-time charger visibility across networks.

By using OCPI, Monta enables cross-network roaming, automated billing, and live synchronization of charger availability, giving users consistent and reliable access to multi-brand chargers in one system. The software’s open and modular architecture allows partners to connect easily through secure APIs, reducing integration complexity and supporting network scalability.

Through its OCPI-compliant framework, Monta ensures transparency, data consistency, and interoperability across the EV charging ecosystem—helping operators and service providers expand their reach while maintaining full compliance with industry standards.