Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) is an open communication standard for electric vehicle charging stations and charging station management systems. OCPP defines how charging points and central management systems exchange information, enabling interoperability between hardware and software from different vendors.
OCPP versions include OCPP 1.2, OCPP 1.5, OCPP 1.6, OCPP 2.0, OCPP 2.0.1, and OCPP 2.1. OCPP 1.6 remains widely deployed, while OCPP 2.0.1 and OCPP 2.1 support advanced use cases such as smart charging, security, and energy management.
Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) works through two main components: the charging station and the central management system. The protocol specifies message flows for operations such as start and stop charging, authorization, meter data reporting, and firmware updates.
OCPP delivers key benefits including interoperability, cost reduction, scalability, improved security, and vendor independence.
OCPP adoption has reached global scale, supported by the Open Charge Alliance, utilities, manufacturers, and software providers. Compliance with OCPP requires charging stations and management platforms to support certified implementations of the protocol.
Open Charge Point Interface (OCPI) complements OCPP but serves a different role. OCPI focuses on roaming and data exchange between service providers, while OCPP enables communication between chargers and backends.
OCPP compliant charging software ensures reliable operation of charging networks. Monta offers OCPP compliant EV charging software that connects with multiple charger brands and supports advanced energy management.
What is open charge point protocol (OCPP)?
Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) is a standard communication protocol used in electric vehicle charging infrastructure. OCPP defines how a charging station communicates with a central management system, creating a common language between hardware and software from different providers.
The purpose of OCPP is to enable interoperability across the EV charging ecosystem. Charging stations and backend systems that follow OCPP can connect and exchange data regardless of manufacturer. This reduces vendor lock-in and ensures flexibility in network expansion. Interoperability has a commercial impact too, since it helps increase charger utilization, which in turn drives higher revenue per asset and strengthens the business case for charging infrastructure.
OCPP was developed in 2009 by the Open Charge Alliance, a global consortium of charging hardware manufacturers, software companies, and utilities. The alliance continues to maintain and update the protocol to meet new requirements in EV charging.
The core components in OCPP communication are the charging station and the central system. The charging station executes transactions and reports status, while the central system manages authorization, billing, monitoring, and updates. Message flows between these two components follow defined OCPP formats.
OCPP supports interoperability by standardizing these message flows between A and B. A charging station that implements OCPP can operate with any central system that supports the same OCPP version. This interoperability drives market growth, lowers integration costs, and encourages competition among providers.
What is the history of OCPP?
The history of OCPP began in 2009 when a group of Dutch utilities and technology partners created the first version of the protocol, OCPP 1.2. The motivation was to provide a common standard for communication between charging stations and central systems. At that time, the EV charging market was small and fragmented, with proprietary systems that limited interoperability.
The Open Charge Alliance (OCA) was established in 2010 to maintain and expand the OCPP protocol. The OCA brought together stakeholders across the EV charging sector, including manufacturers, operators, and utilities. The alliance ensured that OCPP remained open, vendor-neutral, and globally relevant.
OCPP evolved through several milestones. OCPP 1.5 introduced the first basic communication standard. OCPP 1.6 added important features such as smart charging profiles and security improvements, and it became the most widely deployed version. OCPP 2.0, released in 2018, expanded support for advanced energy management and diagnostics. OCPP 2.0.1 in 2020 refined these features, while OCPP 2.1 in 2025 aligned the protocol with broader energy system integration.
Global adoption of OCPP accelerated as governments, utilities, and network operators recognized the value of interoperability. The OCA promoted the protocol worldwide, making OCPP the leading EV charging protocol history reference point and a foundation for scalable EV infrastructure.
What are the versions of OCPP?
The versions of OCPP are OCPP 1.2, OCPP 1.5, OCPP 1.6, OCPP 2.0, OCPP 2.0.1, and OCPP 2.1. Each OCPP version release expanded the protocol to meet the needs of a growing EV charging market. OCPP 1.2 and 1.5 introduced the first interoperable communication standards. OCPP 1.6 became the most widely implemented. OCPP 2.0.1 and OCPP 2.1 delivered advanced functions for energy management, diagnostics, and security.
The table below shows an overview of the main differences between OCPP 1.2, OCPP 1.5, OCPP 1.6, OCPP 2.0.1, and OCPP 2.1.
| Feature | OCPP 1.6 | OCPP 2.0.1 | OCPP 2.1 |
| Release Year | 2015 | 2020 | 2023 |
| Communication | JSON over WebSockets (SOAP optional) | JSON over WebSockets | JSON over WebSockets |
| Smart Charging | Basic profiles | Advanced profiles with flexibility | Expanded profiles for grid integration |
| Security | TLS support | Signed messages and security enhancements | Stronger security, aligned with energy standards |
| Device Management | Firmware updates, error reporting | Remote diagnostics, modular device model | Extended diagnostics, richer device model |
| Energy Management | Minimal support | V2G, load balancing | Improved V2G, integration with energy markets |
| Market Adoption | Most widely deployed | Growing use in advanced networks | Latest version, targeted at future networks |
OCPP 1.2
OCPP 1.2 is the first official version of the Open Charge Point Protocol. OCPP 1.2 was released in 2010 as an early step toward standardizing communication between charging stations and central systems. Before OCPP 1.2, the EV charging market relied on proprietary solutions, making interoperability between hardware and software almost impossible.
OCPP 1.2 introduced a basic framework for communication using SOAP/XML. The framework allowed charge point operators and network providers to remotely monitor charging stations, collect transaction data, and manage user authentication. These features were limited in scope but created the foundation for a shared language across vendors.
The OCPP 1.2 version improved functionality by enabling basic remote operations such as starting and stopping charging sessions and retrieving meter values. For operators, this reduced the need for on-site intervention and enabled early forms of network supervision.
Adoption of OCPP 1.2 was mainly limited to pilot projects and early deployments in Europe. Compatibility across different vendors was still a challenge, as implementations varied and the feature set was not extensive.
Use cases supported by OCPP 1.2 included simple public charging stations and small networks where interoperability was less demanding. However, the protocol lacked advanced features such as smart charging, robust security, and detailed diagnostics. These limitations highlighted the need for further development, which led to OCPP 1.5.
OCPP 1.5
OCPP 1.5 was released in 2011 as the successor to OCPP 1.2. OCPP 1.5 marked an important step forward in standardizing EV charging communication and improving interoperability. Unlike OCPP 1.2, which offered only a basic framework, OCPP 1.5 expanded the set of operations and improved the reliability of message exchanges between charging stations and central systems.
Key features of OCPP 1.5 included better transaction handling, improved authorization processes, and support for more detailed status updates from charging points. These additions gave charge point operators greater visibility of network operations and reduced downtime. Network providers gained more control over session management and reporting, making OCPP 1.5 more practical for larger charging deployments.
OCPP 1.5 enhanced functionality by enabling operators to remotely configure charging stations, receive richer diagnostic information, and monitor usage patterns more effectively. This made network supervision more efficient and scalable compared to OCPP 1.2.
Adoption of OCPP 1.5 spread in Europe, especially among early infrastructure projects that required multi-vendor interoperability. However, compatibility still varied across implementations, as certification processes were not yet mature.
Use cases supported by OCPP 1.5 included medium-sized charging networks, municipal installations, and utility-backed pilot programs. Despite these advances, the version lacked strong security features and comprehensive smart charging capabilities. These gaps highlighted the need for OCPP 1.6.
OCPP 1.6
OCPP 1.6 was released in 2015 and became the first version to gain wide-scale adoption across the EV charging industry. OCPP 1.6 was built on OCPP 1.5 by introducing more robust communication options and laying the foundation for smart charging. Unlike earlier versions that relied mainly on SOAP/XML, OCPP 1.6 supported JSON over WebSockets, which improved efficiency and scalability.
Key features of OCPP 1.6 included support for smart charging profiles, enabling operators to manage load distribution and optimize energy use. The version introduced better transaction handling, richer event notifications, and improved remote management functions. Basic Transport Layer Security (TLS) was added to strengthen communication security, although not yet at the level required for advanced energy markets.
OCPP 1.6 enhanced functionality for charge point operators by giving them the ability to define charging schedules, balance loads across multiple stations, and improve billing accuracy through detailed meter values. For network providers, it enabled more reliable backend integration and reduced operational complexity in multi-vendor environments.
Adoption of OCPP 1.6 spread quickly, and it became the most widely deployed version worldwide. Many charging hardware and software vendors adopted OCPP 1.6 as the default standard, making it a cornerstone of the EV charging ecosystem.
Use cases supported by OCPP 1.6 included public charging stations, fleet charging, and utility-managed networks where load management was necessary. However, the version still had limitations in advanced diagnostics, cybersecurity, and full vehicle-to-grid (V2G) functionality. These gaps motivated the release of OCPP 2.0 and later refinements.
OCPP 2.0.1
OCPP 2.0.1 was released in 2020 as a refined update to OCPP 2.0. OCPP 2.0.1 addressed implementation issues from the earlier release and delivered a more stable framework for advanced EV charging operations. OCPP 2.0.1 introduced a modular device model, richer diagnostics, and stronger security measures, unlike OCPP 1.6, which focused on basic smart charging and remote management.
Key features of OCPP 2.0.1 included advanced smart charging with flexible profiles, support for vehicle-to-grid (V2G) integration, improved error reporting, and secure communication using signed messages. The protocol expanded device management, allowing operators to monitor components such as charging modules, displays, and sensors at a detailed level.
OCPP 2.0.1 enhanced functionality for charge point operators by enabling predictive maintenance through richer diagnostic data, more efficient firmware management, and better fault handling. For network providers, the version supported scalable deployments with improved backend integration and enhanced cybersecurity aligned with industry standards.
Adoption of OCPP 2.0.1 began with large network operators and manufacturers seeking advanced energy management and compliance with stricter security requirements. However, OCPP 1.6 continued to dominate in terms of deployed stations, which made backward compatibility an important consideration for vendors.
Use cases supported by OCPP 2.0.1 included smart grid integration, utility demand response programs, and fleet charging operations requiring detailed monitoring. Limitations remained in the form of slower adoption due to the cost and complexity of implementation, as well as the need for gradual migration from OCPP 1.6 networks. These factors set the stage for OCPP 2.1, which aligned the protocol more closely with energy market integration.
OCPP 2.1
OCPP 2.1 was originally released in 2023 as the latest version of the Open Charge Point Protocol. OCPP 2.1 was built on OCPP 2.0.1 by refining advanced features and aligning the protocol with broader energy system standards. Compared to OCPP 1.6 and 2.0.1, OCPP 2.1 offered improved support for smart energy services, stronger security, and more detailed device management. A new version of OCPP 2.1 was released on January 23, 2025.
Key features of OCPP 2.1 included expanded smart charging capabilities, better support for vehicle-to-grid (V2G) services, improved load balancing, and enhanced compliance with energy market requirements. The modular device model introduced in OCPP 2.0.1 was extended with richer monitoring and configuration options, helping operators manage complex charging infrastructures more effectively.
OCPP 2.1 enhanced functionality for charge point operators by enabling more accurate control of energy flows, stronger resilience against cybersecurity threats, and improved interoperability with energy management systems. For network providers, it supported new business models such as grid services and advanced demand response.
Adoption of OCPP 2.1 remained at an early stage in 2023, as most networks still operated on OCPP 1.6. Compatibility required vendors to support migration paths and hybrid infrastructures where multiple protocol versions coexisted.
Use cases supported by OCPP 2.1 included large-scale smart grid integration, advanced fleet management, and markets where V2G plays a strategic role. Limitations were tied mainly to slower adoption, higher costs of implementation, and the need for consistent certification across vendors. Despite these challenges, OCPP 2.1 represented the most comprehensive standard for modern EV charging networks.
How does OCPP work?
OCPP works by enabling communication between a charging station and a central system using standardized messages. OCPP standardizes communication between an EV charger (charge point) and a backend system, ensuring interoperability across the EV charging ecosystem.
The OCPP communication overview diagram is shown in the image below.
The list below explains how OCPP works by describing the core components and systems involved in communication.
- OCPP server: The server, often hosted in the cloud, is the central point where charging stations send and receive messages. The OCPP server processes requests such as session authorization, meter readings, and firmware updates.
- OCPP EV charger: The charger communicates with the server using OCPP messages. It reports status, accepts start and stop commands, and shares transaction data. The charger relies on the protocol to ensure compatibility with different backends.
- Charge point operator (CPO): The operator manages the charging infrastructure. Through OCPP, the CPO monitors station performance, handles user authentication, and manages billing across the network.
- Charge point management system (CPMS): The CPMS is the backend software that connects to chargers via the OCPP server. The Charge Point Management System (CPMS) provides operators with dashboards, analytics, and remote control functions to keep networks running efficiently.
- OCPP gateway / REST API: The gateway or API acts as a bridge for systems that do not natively support OCPP. The OCPP gateway or API converts data formats, allowing third-party services and applications to interact with OCPP-compliant chargers and management systems.
1. OCPP server
An OCPP server is the central system that manages communication between EV chargers and backend platforms in an OCPP ecosystem. The OCPP server acts as the main control point where all OCPP messages are received, processed, and responded to, ensuring smooth operation of charging networks.
The OCPP server communicates with charging stations using standardized OCPP message flows. These messages cover operations such as start and stop commands, authorization requests, meter readings, firmware updates, and error reporting. Communication typically runs over WebSockets with JSON, though older versions of OCPP may use SOAP/XML.
Core functions of the OCPP server include session authorization, transaction logging, monitoring of charger status, remote configuration, and diagnostics. It also manages software updates and enforces smart charging profiles to balance energy demand.
Infrastructure requirements for deploying an OCPP server depend on the scale of the network. Cloud-based deployments provide scalability and remote access, while on-premises servers are used when operators require local control or strict data security.
The server handles data such as user IDs, charging session records, pricing information, meter values, and charger health status. This data is critical for billing, reporting, and maintenance.
OCPP servers are typically managed by charge point operators (CPOs) or backend service providers that specialize in EV charging management. Common deployment models include multi-tenant cloud platforms serving many operators or dedicated on-premises installations for private networks.
2. OCPP EV charger
An OCPP EV charger is a charging station that communicates with a central management system using the Open Charge Point Protocol. Within an OCPP-based network, the charger functions as the endpoint that executes charging sessions, reports operational data, and receives commands from the backend server.
Unlike non-OCPP-compliant chargers, an OCPP EV charger is not tied to a single vendor’s software. It can connect to any OCPP-compliant server, giving operators flexibility to switch backend providers without replacing hardware. This ensures interoperability and lowers the risk of vendor lock-in.
The charger transmits data such as transaction start and stop events, energy consumption, error codes, firmware version, and real-time status updates. These data points are used by the server to authorize users, calculate billing, and monitor charger performance.
Key capabilities enabled by OCPP compatibility include remote start and stop of sessions, smart charging with load balancing, firmware updates, diagnostics, and secure communication. For operators, these features improve network efficiency and user experience.
Hardware requirements for OCPP implementation include a network interface (Ethernet, Wi-Fi, or cellular) and sufficient processing capability to handle communication protocols. Software requirements involve an OCPP client stack embedded in the charger firmware, supporting the relevant version of the protocol.
OCPP impacts maintenance by allowing remote diagnostics and software updates, reducing the need for on-site visits. It improves scalability by enabling chargers from different hardware manufacturers to coexist in the same network, supporting large deployments across multiple regions.
With OCPP compatibility, operators can choose from a wide range of hardware while keeping network management simple. Monta supports hundreds of OCPP-compliant chargers from leading manufacturers, giving operators and installers the flexibility to build networks that fit their needs.
3. Charge point operator (CPO)
A charge point operator (CPO) is an organization responsible for owning, managing, and maintaining EV charging stations. In the OCPP ecosystem, the CPO ensures that charging points are operational, accessible, and connected to backend systems for monitoring and billing.
The CPO uses OCPP to manage charging stations by connecting them to a central server or charge point management system (CPMS). Through OCPP, the CPO can authorize charging sessions, monitor station status, apply smart charging rules, update firmware, and collect usage data across the network.
The role of a CPO differs from an eMobility Service Provider (eMSP). A CPO manages the physical charging infrastructure, while an eMSP provides services to EV drivers such as subscriptions, roaming access, and customer support. OCPP is primarily used by CPOs to manage assets, while eMSPs often rely on protocols like OCPI for roaming and interoperability across networks.
Data handled by CPOs through OCPP includes transaction details, energy consumption, error reports, pricing information, and station availability. This data is critical for billing, reporting, and network optimization.
OCPP is important for CPOs because it enables interoperability between hardware and software from multiple vendors. Without OCPP, CPOs would be locked into proprietary solutions, limiting flexibility and increasing operational costs. Many operators rely on dedicated charge point operator (CPO) software to take advantage of OCPP features and manage networks efficiently.
CPOs typically deploy OCPP solutions through cloud-based CPMS platforms provided by backend vendors. Some large operators may also use on-premises deployments for greater control over data and infrastructure.
4. Charge point management system (CPMS)
A charge point management system (CPMS) is the backend software platform that connects EV chargers to operators through the Open Charge Point Protocol. In the OCPP ecosystem, the CPMS acts as the central hub where data from charging stations is collected, processed, and managed.
The CPMS communicates with charging stations via OCPP message exchanges. These cover operations such as authorization, session control, status reporting, firmware updates, and smart charging commands. By following OCPP standards, the CPMS ensures interoperability across hardware from different manufacturers.
Main functions of a CPMS include remote monitoring of chargers, session management, billing and payments, load balancing, reporting, and firmware deployment. It also supports security functions, error handling, and energy management to optimize network performance.
The CPMS processes and stores data such as user credentials, transaction records, energy consumption, error logs, and availability status. This information helps operators track performance, manage revenue, and plan maintenance.
For charge point operators, a CPMS enables centralized control of large charging networks. It allows scaling from a handful of chargers to thousands across regions while maintaining consistent performance.
A CPMS differs from an eMobility Service Provider (eMSP) platform in focus. The CPMS is designed for infrastructure management, while the eMSP platform serves end users by offering access to charging services, subscriptions, and roaming features.
An OCPP-compliant CPMS provides flexibility, vendor independence, and lower integration costs. Without it, operators face challenges such as manual monitoring, lack of interoperability, and limited scalability.
Common deployment models include cloud-based CPMS platforms. Cloud-based platforms offer scalability and remote access for operators. On-premises systems are used when strict data control or regulatory compliance is required.
5. OCPP gateway / REST API
An OCPP Gateway is a middleware component that bridges communication between EV chargers and backend systems in an OCPP network. OCPP gateways translate and route OCPP messages, ensuring that chargers using different protocol versions or communication formats can still connect to a central system.
The OCPP Gateway supports communication by standardizing message flows between charging stations and management platforms. It can convert older SOAP/XML-based messages into modern JSON over WebSockets, making integration more efficient.
A REST API in the OCPP ecosystem provides a simplified interface for external applications to access charger data and control functions. Instead of working directly with OCPP message structures, developers use REST endpoints to retrieve information or send commands.
OCPP Gateways and REST APIs simplify integration with third-party software such as billing systems, mobile apps, and fleet management platforms. They expose key functionality without requiring deep knowledge of OCPP protocols.
Main benefits for CPOs and CPMS providers include faster integration, reduced development effort, and support for multi-vendor charger fleets. By using gateways and APIs, operators gain flexibility in connecting to different systems and services.
Data accessed through an OCPP REST API includes session records, meter values, error logs, charger availability, and firmware status. This data supports billing, customer services, and energy management.
An OCPP Gateway improves interoperability by enabling chargers from different brands or with different OCPP versions to coexist in the same network.
Common use cases for OCPP REST APIs include real-time session monitoring in mobile apps, automated billing integration, energy optimization, and fleet management dashboards.
Without an OCPP Gateway or REST API, operators face challenges such as vendor lock-in, higher integration costs, and limited connectivity with third-party services.
Typical deployment models for OCPP Gateways include hardware-based appliances installed on-site, software-based middleware running in local servers, and cloud-based services offered by backend providers.
What are the benefits of OCPP?
Here are the main benefits of OCPP that make it essential for building efficient and scalable EV charging networks.
- Interoperability: OCPP allows EV chargers and backend systems from different manufacturers to communicate seamlessly, enabling multi-vendor ecosystems.
- Vendor Independence: Operators can choose or switch hardware and software providers without being locked into proprietary systems.
- Cost Efficiency: By standardizing communication, OCPP reduces integration and operational costs, especially in large-scale deployments.
- Scalability: Networks can be expanded without replacing existing infrastructure, supporting long-term growth.
- Remote Management: OCPP enables remote monitoring, diagnostics, firmware updates, and configuration of charge points, reducing maintenance needs.
- Smart Charging Support: The protocol supports load balancing, energy management, and scheduled charging, aligning with grid efficiency goals.
- Future-Proofing: Regular updates and backward compatibility help maintain long-term relevance and integration with upcoming technologies.
- Enhanced Innovation: Open standards promote third-party development and faster adoption of new features or enhancements.
What is the adoption and global impact of OCPP implementation?
OCPP adoption has expanded worldwide across Europe, North America, and Asia-Pacific. The protocol is now supported by utilities, charger manufacturers, charge point operators, and software vendors as the default standard for charger-to-backend communication. OCPP was in use in 137 countries by January 2025, cementing its role as the de facto global standard (Open Charge Alliance, 2025).
Global adoption has been driven by its open, vendor-neutral design, which removes the risk of proprietary lock-in. Public tenders and regulatory frameworks in many countries reference OCPP to ensure interoperability and scalability. In the European Union, around 85% of charging stations were OCPP-certified in 2022 (European Commission, 2023), supported by the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR). In North America, adoption is accelerated by the $5 billion U.S. NEVI program, which mandates OCPP 2.0.1 compliance for funded charging stations and enforces 97% uptime standards (Federal Highway Administration, 2022). In Asia-Pacific, adoption rates vary: South Korea requires OCPP certification for public funding, while China relies on domestic protocols despite dominating EV production (IEA, 2025).
OCPP plays a central role in scaling EV infrastructure by enabling chargers from different brands to operate in the same network. Market research highlights this impact: the OCPP platform market reached $1.47 billion in 2024 and is forecast to grow at a 22.8% CAGR through 2033, while the certification market is projected to expand from $385 million in 2024 to $1.37 billion by 2033 (PwC, 2024).
By lowering integration costs and opening the market to multiple providers, OCPP contributes to innovation and competition. EY (2024) emphasizes OCPP’s role in enabling smart charging and vehicle-to-grid technologies that could reduce the total cost of ownership for households by 20%. Accenture (2024) identifies OCPP compliance as a prerequisite for robust eMobility platforms, while KPMG (2023) stresses its role in emerging markets such as India. World Bank studies show that standardized charging protocols like OCPP make infrastructure investments 4–7 times more effective at promoting EV adoption compared to subsidies (World Bank, 2023).
The impact of OCPP is measurable in performance metrics as well. Studies report 98.3% uptime for OCPP-compliant stations compared to 92.7% for non-standardized equipment, alongside 45% lower integration costs and 37% faster transaction processing (Accenture, 2024). These improvements directly support operators in reducing operational complexity and enhancing the user experience.
International organizations and standards bodies such as the Open Charge Alliance (OCA), the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), CENELEC, and the European Commission recognize OCPP as the foundation of EV charging interoperability. The adoption of OCPP 2.0.1 as IEC 63584 in 2024 (IEC, 2024) and its publication by CENELEC as a European standard (CENELEC, 2025) mark a significant milestone in global standardization. Alignment with energy system standards continues to strengthen its position as the leading EV charging protocol worldwide.
How to achieve OCPP compliance for EV charging stations?
To achieve OCPP compliance for an EV charging station, follow the steps listed below.
- Implement OCPP software stack: Integrate a compatible OCPP client library into the charger’s firmware to handle communication with backend systems.
- Verify hardware compatibility: Ensure the EVSE controller, communication module, and power electronics can support OCPP operations such as WebSocket or HTTP connectivity.
- Simulate communication scenarios: Use test tools to simulate message exchanges and verify proper handling of all OCPP calls and responses.
- Test for protocol conformance: Run OCPP compliance test suites to validate message formats, error handling, and expected behaviors according to the selected protocol version.
- Document implementation details: Maintain thorough records of versioning, configurations, and supported features to aid in validation and troubleshooting.
- Engage in third-party validation: Work with certified testing labs or the Open Charge Alliance to optionally certify compliance and enhance credibility.
- Maintain ongoing compatibility: Regularly update firmware and monitor protocol updates to remain aligned with evolving OCPP standards and industry expectations.
What is the difference between OCPP and OCPI?
The main difference between OCPP and OCPI is their role in the EV charging ecosystem. Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) governs communication between EV chargers and central management systems. Open Charge Point Interface (OCPI), focuses on roaming and data exchange between charging networks and service providers.
OCPP addresses the device-to-backend layer, ensuring chargers can talk to a management platform regardless of manufacturer. OCPI addresses the network-to-network layer, enabling different operators and eMobility Service Providers (eMSPs) to share data about availability, pricing, and transactions.
Technical implementation between OCPP and OCPI differs as well. OCPP defines structured message flows for operations such as starting and stopping sessions, reporting meter values, and managing firmware. OCPI defines standardized APIs that allow systems to exchange information on tariffs, locations, and roaming agreements.
OCPP is primarily used by charge point operators (CPOs) and backend providers managing physical charging stations. OCPI is used by eMSPs, roaming hubs, and operators who want to enable drivers to access multiple networks through a single account or app.
OCPP and OCPI can work together in the same charging network. OCPP ensures reliable charger-to-backend communication, while OCPI enables cross-network access and roaming, creating a seamless experience for EV drivers.
What is OCPP-compliant EV charging management software?
OCPP-compliant EV charging management software is a backend platform that connects to charging stations using the Open Charge Point Protocol. OCPP-compliant EV charging management software ensures that chargers from different manufacturers can communicate with the same system, enabling operators to manage diverse networks through a unified interface.
The software plays a central role in managing charger networks. It oversees session authorization, billing, monitoring, reporting, and smart charging functions. By following OCPP standards, it allows operators to integrate chargers from multiple vendors without additional custom development.
Key features enabled through OCPP compliance include remote monitoring of charger status, firmware updates, diagnostics, energy management, load balancing, and secure communication. These features support efficient operation of both small and large networks.
Integration of OCPP with EV charging management systems uses a client–server communication model. Chargers act as OCPP clients, sending and receiving standardized messages, while the management software functions as the OCPP server that processes commands and data.
Users of OCPP-compliant EV charging management software software include charge point operators, utilities, fleet managers, and service providers. Users gain benefits such as vendor independence, lower integration costs, improved scalability, and access to third-party innovations that rely on open standards.
Does Monta offer OCPP-compliant EV charging software?
Yes, Monta does offer OCPP-compliant software for EV charging. Monta’s OCPP compliant EV charging software connects directly to charging stations through OCPP, enabling reliable communication between chargers and backend systems.
Monta’s OCPP compliance allows users to manage multi-vendor charging networks without being tied to a single hardware provider. Operators and installers gain the ability to connect, configure, and monitor chargers from different manufacturers in one unified CPMS.
Through OCPP, Monta supports core functions such as remote start and stop of sessions, authorization, smart charging, firmware updates, and real-time monitoring. This ensures operators can maintain efficient and scalable charging networks.
Monta is compatible with a wide range of OCPP-enabled chargers, including both AC and DC models from leading global manufacturers. This flexibility makes it easier for installers and operators to expand networks with new hardware while keeping backend systems consistent.
By using OCPP, Monta enhances interoperability and reduces integration costs. Operators benefit from greater freedom in hardware choice, simplified network scaling, and the ability to deliver consistent services to EV drivers across different hardware brands.