Why open standards like OCPP and OCPI are essential for the future of EV charging infrastructure

Digital illustration of a glowing neural network shaped like a brain, symbolizing the connection between OCPP and OCPI in a futuristic EV charging ecosystem

Why open standards like OCPP and OCPI are essential for the future of EV charging infrastructure

In the rapidly evolving world of electric mobility, interoperability is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity. Open standards such as the Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) and the Open Charge Point Interface (OCPI) play a crucial role by enabling standardized communication between various systems and stakeholders within the EV ecosystem.

Futuristic landscape illustration of a smart city powered by solar panels, EVs, and wind turbines, with glowing paths labeled OCPI and OCPP representing energy and data flow.
The Power of Open Standards

Open standards offer numerous benefits for both operators and end-users:

  • Flexibility: Charging stations from different manufacturers can be easily integrated, reducing dependence on a single vendor.
  • Future-Proofing: Standardized communication protocols allow for updates and upgrades without the need for complete system replacements.
  • Cost Savings: Reduced reliance on specific vendors leads to more competitive pricing and lower operational costs.
OCPP: The Backbone of Charging Station Communication

OCPP is designed to provide a uniform method of communication between charging stations and central systems, regardless of the manufacturer. The latest version, OCPP 2.0.1, makes it anable to introduce advanced features such as:

  • Plug & Charge (ISO 15118): Enables automatic authentication and payment as soon as an EV is connected, eliminating the need for cards or apps.
  • Enhanced Security: Built-in security protocols protect against cyber threats.
  • Device Management: Simplifies the installation, configuration, and maintenance of charging stations, including support for remote firmware updates.
  • User Interface: Supports multilingual displays and provides real-time information to users, enhancing accessibility and user-friendliness.

These new features not only improve the user experience but also simplify operations and increase efficiency for charging network operators.

OCPI: Seamless Roaming and Data Exchange

OCPI facilitates data exchange between e-Mobility Service Providers (eMSPs) and Charge Point Operators (CPOs), granting EV drivers access to a wide network of charging stations. The recent version, OCPI 2.3.0, introduces:

  • EU AFIR Compliance: Meets the requirements for data exchange with national access points.
  • Extensibility: Offers possibilities for custom extensions, allowing market participants to implement specific functionalities that align with their business models.
  • Direct Payment Module: Enables direct payments without the involvement of an eMSP.
  • These enhancements lead to a better charging experience for both operators and users.
EVesto’s Commitment to Open Standards

At EVesto, we strongly believe in the power of open standards. Therefore:

  • We fully support OCPP 1.6 and largely support 2.0.1, ensuring our customers benefit from the latest functionalities.
  • We are prepared for the implementation of OCPI 2.3, enabling seamless roaming and data exchange.
  • We actively share our knowledge and experience within the industry to promote the adoption of open standards.

By building on open standards, we ensure our customers are not tied to outdated technology and are always ready for the future.

The Future of EV Charging Infrastructure

The adoption of open standards like OCPP and OCPI is essential for the continued growth and development of EV charging infrastructure. They provide the flexibility and scalability needed to meet the increasing demand for electric mobility.

Curious about how EVesto can future-proof your charging infrastructure? We are happy to inform you about the possibilities through a clear demo.

 

Why managed roaming in the EV Sector Is still far from smooth

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Why managed roaming in the EV Sector Is still far from smooth

In a sector that’s evolving faster than ever, we see it as our mission to keep professionals in the world of EV charging sharp and informed. We’re starting with a topic that’s often discussed but rarely resolved: Managed Roaming.

1. Integrating with multiple roaming platforms is complex

CPOs looking to connect with several roaming platforms (like Hubject or Gireve) face a patchwork of technical requirements, certification processes, and protocol versions. Connecting to just one platform is already a major project, let alone multiple. It requires time, technical know-how, and flexibility that isn’t always readily available.

2. Limited visibility into roaming traffic and involved parties

Many CPOs have no clear picture of who’s actually charging on their network via roaming. Which MSP is behind a session? Which platform passed it along? This lack of transparency makes it difficult to steer performance, business development, or customer experience.

3. Delayed or incomplete session data = delay in everything

A common issue: session data comes in late or with errors. Missing start or end times, wrong identifiers, or even entire sessions that never show up. This directly affects billing, reimbursements, and customer service, because you can’t fix what you can’t see.

4. Protocol and standards uncertainty

Roaming mostly relies on the OCPI protocol, but multiple versions are in use. Not every platform implements it the same way, and updates don’t happen in sync. CPOs are expected to “keep up”, which requires specialized knowledge and technical follow-through. What works today might suddenly break tomorrow.

5. Scaling up? That’s when the real challenge begins

As your network grows in popularity, so does the number of roaming partners and the complexity skyrockets. More connections mean more chances for errors, inconsistent data, and pressure on support. Where you once managed a handful of relationships, you now become a data hub.

In Closing

The transition toward a more efficient roaming landscape is underway, but there are still plenty of hurdles. With this Industry Monitor, we want to map them out so the sector gains a clearer view of where the real frictions lie. In a future edition, we’ll explore how things might be done differently. But for now, let’s start with insight.

 
Have you experienced roaming issues or noticed other friction points in the market? We’d love to hear from you, your input helps complete the picture.

Get in touch: [email protected]
Mark Wildekamp