OCPP EV Charging Solutions

What are OCPP, OSCP, OCPI and ISO 15118?

What are OCPP, OSCP, OCPI and ISO 15118

Are you confused by the names of these protocols abbreviations? Let’s explain it all for you.

OCPP

OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol) is the global open communication protocol between EV chargers and Charging Management Systems of EV charger operators. It handles the exchange of charging data and can trade information between EVs and the grid system. Using OCPP, the CPO can install EV chargers, sign up users and enable charging with a mobiel App, RFID-card or QR codes. Most public charging networks operate this way.

OSCP

OSCP (Open Smart Charging Protocol) is an open communication protocol between a charging management system and a smart charging service provider (SCSP). It imparts a 24-hour forecast of the accessible capacity of an electricity grid. OSCP sets the overall load avilable to the site while the charging management system distributes the avilable load between the EV chargers using dynamic load balancing.Both OCPP and OSCP are maintained by the Open Charge Alliance (OCA), a worldwide consortium of EV infrastructure pioneers that foster open standards in EV charging infrastructure.

OCPI

OCPI (Open Charge Point Interface) is an open protocol used for connections between EV charger operators and service providers. Simply put, this protocol facilitates automated roaming for EV drivers across several EV charging networks. This interface underpins the affordability and accessibility of charging infrastructure for the EV owners, allowing drivers to charge on several networks.

This protocol is endorsed and maintained by the EVRoaming Foundation. It enables operators to offer services across multiple networks, giving users more charging options. It enables EV charging datas like EV charger commands, location and status, charging pricing etc.

ISO 15118

ISO 15118 is an international standard that defines a communication protocol between EVs and charging stations, whether using AC, DC, wireless, or pantograph charging. It protocol enables plug & charge capability, where the EV driver simply plugs the vehicle into the charging station. Then the EV identifies itself to the charging station with using ISO 15118 interface, allowing for instant authorization for and initiation of charging. It is recognised as an important contributing factor to accelerate EV adoption, as plug & charge greatly simplifies EV driver’s charging experience.

ISO 15118 also enables V2G (vehicle-to-grid). With V2G, electric vehicles will be able to feed energy back to the grid when needed, thus helping reduce costly system peaks and ensuring a more intelligent, reliable grid.