What is OCPP?
The Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) is an open communication standard that allows EV charging stations to communicate with central charging management systems.
In simple terms, it helps chargers and charging software from different manufacturers communicate using a shared protocol.
Without common standards, businesses could face challenges connecting new chargers to existing software or switching management platforms without replacing their charging hardware.
OCPP helps reduce these barriers, supporting more flexible and scalable EV charging infrastructure. The protocol is maintained by the Open Charge Alliance.
How does OCPP work?
OCPP provides a communication link between a charging station and the software used to manage it.
For example, a charge point operator (CPO) managing chargers across multiple locations may need to monitor charger status, receive charging-session information and manage certain charging functions remotely.
When compatible equipment and software communicate through OCPP, the management system can exchange supported information and commands with the charger.
Depending on the OCPP version and implementation, this can include:
- Charger monitoring: Receive information about charger status and faults.
- Session data: Exchange information about charging sessions and energy consumption.
- Remote management: Support actions such as starting or stopping sessions where permitted.
- Smart charging: Use supported charging controls to manage charging power and schedules.
Not every feature is available in every version or implementation, so businesses should check compatibility before choosing their equipment and software.
Why does OCPP matter for EV charging businesses?
As charging networks expand, interoperability becomes increasingly important.
More flexibility when choosing hardware: Businesses can evaluate chargers and software from different vendors rather than relying entirely on a single proprietary ecosystem.
Simpler network expansion: Compatible chargers can be easier to integrate into an existing management system, subject to testing and configuration.
Better operational visibility: Supported status information and charging data can help operators manage their infrastructure.
Room for future development: Open standards can make it easier to introduce new capabilities as charging requirements evolve.
OCPP does not guarantee that every charger will work with every software platform. Differences in protocol versions, optional features and manufacturer implementations can still affect compatibility.
OCPP 1.6 vs OCPP 2.0.1 vs OCPP 2.1
OCPP has evolved to support changing requirements across the EV charging industry.
- OCPP 1.6: Released in 2015, it remains widely used and includes smart-charging functionality.
- OCPP 2.0.1: Introduced improvements in security, device management and smart charging, along with support for ISO 15118-related functionality.
- OCPP 2.1: Released in 2025, it adds capabilities including support for bidirectional charging and more advanced energy-management use cases.
One important consideration: OCPP 1.6 and OCPP 2.0.1 are not directly backward-compatible. Businesses should verify supported versions and required features with their charger and software providers. The Open Charge Alliance’s protocol documentation provides further technical details.
What does OCPP mean for Electric Miles?
For EV charging software providers, interoperability helps connect charging hardware with the systems that manage charging operations and energy use.
Electric Miles works across the EV charging ecosystem, with software designed to support charging management, smart charging and energy flexibility.
For businesses evaluating a solution, it is worth checking which OCPP versions and features are supported by the specific chargers and Electric Miles software components involved. Compatibility should be confirmed for the intended setup rather than assumed from protocol support alone.
Explore Electric Miles to learn more about its EV charging and energy-management solutions.
Frequently asked questions
Is OCPP a charger or a software platform?
Neither. OCPP is a communication protocol that enables compatible chargers and central management systems to exchange information.
Does OCPP mean any charger will work with any software?
No. Compatibility depends on protocol versions, implemented features, testing and the requirements of the specific integration.
Is OCPP open?
Yes. The Open Charge Alliance publishes the protocol specifications to support interoperability across the EV charging ecosystem.