EV Charging is Booming – But What Keeps It All Running Smoothly?
With EV adoption accelerating worldwide, the demand for charging infrastructure is growing just as fast. But building a successful charging network isn’t just about installing more hardware – it’s about making sure all the pieces talk to each other. That’s where Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) plays a critical role.
OCPP is the universal language that allows EV chargers and backend systems to communicate – no matter the manufacturer or software vendor. As electric mobility continues to scale, OCPP ensures that charging stations remain flexible, future-ready, and interoperable.
What is OCPP?
OCPP is an open-source communication standard developed by the Open Charge Alliance (OCA) to create interoperability between electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) and charge point management systems. By using this standard, hardware and software from different vendors can work together without being locked into proprietary systems.
For example, a charge point from Manufacturer A can communicate with a management platform from Software Provider B, as long as both support the same version of OCPP.
OCPP enables key functions like:
- Starting and stopping charging sessions
- Authorizing users
- Reporting diagnostic data
- Managing billing and payments
- Sending alerts for errors or required maintenance
Who Uses OCPP – and Why It Matters
There are three main players in the EV charging ecosystem that rely on OCPP:
- EVSE Manufacturers – Build the physical chargers
- CSMS Providers – Offer the software platforms that manage, monitor, and bill for charging activity
- Charge Point Operators (CPOs) – Own and operate the chargers and maintain the relationship with end users
While some businesses may cover more than one of these roles, it’s common for them to operate independently – which makes interoperability essential.
OCPP ensures that no matter how these providers are structured, chargers and software systems can work together. That flexibility is vital for expanding charging networks without being tied to a single vendor.
How OCPP Works in Real Life
Let’s walk through a typical EV charging session to see OCPP in action:
- A driver reserves a charging station using a mobile app.
- The backend system places that charger on hold.
- Upon arrival, the driver identifies themselves and the charger authenticates them and unlocks the connector.
- The vehicle begins charging, with usage tracked in real-time.
- Once complete, the charger ends the session and sends usage data to trigger billing.
- The driver is charged based on energy consumed, time spent, or a flat rate, depending on the CPO’s policy.
Each of these steps is facilitated by OCPP, ensuring secure communication between the charger and the backend system.
OCPP Versions: What’s the Latest?
While OCPP 1.6 remains widely adopted and OCPP 2.0.1 introduced major improvements like enhanced security and smart charging capabilities, the latest version is now OCPP 2.1, released by the Open Charge Alliance.
OCPP 2.1 builds on previous iterations by adding:
- Enhanced support for ISO 15118 and Plug & Charge
- Improved performance and extensibility for evolving EV infrastructure
- Stronger alignment with modern energy management systems
As the industry gradually transitions toward OCPP 2.1, businesses investing in EV charging infrastructure should ensure that both hardware and software partners are on the path to support the latest version – helping future-proof deployments and meet evolving technical and regulatory standards.
The Connectivity Layer: Where KORE Comes In
OCPP is only part of the puzzle. For it to work, chargers need a reliable, secure way to communicate with the CSMS – often in remote or distributed locations. That’s where KORE’s global cellular connectivity comes in.
While older chargers might rely on Ethernet or Wi-Fi, cellular IoT offers broader coverage, easier installation, and better scalability. And with smart EVSE hardware now requiring more real-time diagnostics, firmware updates, and security patches, reliable connectivity isn’t a bonus – it’s a requirement.
KORE offers:
- Global SIM Solutions – Our Super SIM technology gives EVSE providers access to hundreds of networks worldwide, ensuring seamless failover, optimized routing, and consistent uptime – all from a single SIM card.
- Managed Services – From provisioning to network monitoring and SIM lifecycle management, KORE offers built-in support to help charge point operators scale quickly and securely.
- Security and Device Management – Firmware updates and real-time diagnostics can be securely managed over the air, helping prevent downtime and ensuring regulatory compliance.
Why OCPP Compliance Future-Proofs Charging Networks
Charging infrastructure investments need to last. Adopting OCPP ensures your network can evolve with new partners, new regulations, and new technologies.
OCPP allows:
- Vendor flexibility (no vendor lock-in)
- Easier network scaling
- Simplified integration with other mobility services
- Support for smart energy applications (like demand response or dynamic pricing)
When paired with a flexible, secure connectivity layer from KORE, OCPP-based EV charging becomes even more powerful – enabling businesses to expand globally with confidence.
Final Thoughts: Built for the Future
OCPP is more than a technical standard – it’s a foundation for innovation in EV charging. With open protocols and global connectivity, charge point operators can deliver better experiences to drivers, reduce operational headaches, and stay competitive in a rapidly changing market.
Whether you’re a manufacturer, CPO, or software provider, KORE can help power your OCPP-connected devices with intelligent, future-ready connectivity.
Ready to power your EVSE with global cellular connectivity? Get in touch with KORE today.