What is OCPP? How EV chargers connect to management software
OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol) versions for EV charging define the communication standard that enables EV chargers and central management systems to exchange data reliably. OCPP ensures interoperability between different manufacturers, allowing networks to scale without locking operators into a single vendor.
For CPOs, installers and resellers, OCPP standards for EV charging networks provide a common language that simplifies integration, remote management and data sharing across the entire EV ecosystem.
What is OCPP?
OCPP stands for Open Charge Point Protocol. It is the open communication protocol used between an EV charging station and its management software, usually called a CSMS or CPMS.
An OCPP charger can report its status, send session and meter data, receive settings and respond to remote commands. Because the protocol is not tied to one manufacturer, operators can combine charging hardware and management software from different suppliers. OCPP is maintained by the Open Charge Alliance.
How does OCPP work?
When a charging station connects, it identifies itself to the management system and reports whether it is available, charging or experiencing a fault. During a session it sends transaction and energy data. The management system can return instructions, such as authorising a driver, changing a power limit, restarting the charger or installing new firmware.
OCPP defines the messages exchanged. The CSMS or CPMS decides what to do with them, including monitoring, pricing, customer access and reporting.
OCPP 1.6, 2.0.1 and 2.1
The Open Charge Alliance currently maintains three main versions:
- OCPP 1.6 was released in 2015 and remains widely used. It supports core operations, firmware updates, local authorisation and smart-charging profiles.
- OCPP 2.0.1 was released in 2020. It added stronger security, improved device management, better transaction handling and support for ISO 15118. OCPP 1.6 and 2.0.1 are not directly compatible. Edition 3 of OCPP 2.0.1 became IEC 63584 in 2024.
- OCPP 2.1 was released in 2025. It builds on 2.0.1 with support for ISO 15118-20, bidirectional charging, distributed energy resources and improved smart charging.
The newest version is not automatically the right version for every deployment. Operators need matching support in the charger, firmware and management platform, followed by testing of the functions they intend to use.
Our comparison of OCPP 1.6, 2.0.1 and 2.1 explains the functional and compatibility differences in more detail.
Why does OCPP matter?
OCPP gives charge point operators more choice. A compatible charger can connect directly to a chosen management platform, making it possible to build a mixed-hardware network or change software provider without automatically replacing the chargers.
That flexibility is not automatic. Operators still need access to charger credentials, compatible protocol versions, suitable firmware and a planned migration. An extra manufacturer cloud may also remain a dependency even when OCPP is used.
What does OCPP not guarantee?
“OCPP compatible” does not mean that every charger will perform every function with every CSMS. Implementations can support different versions, profiles and optional features. Our guide to OCPP compliance and certification explains what the terminology and certificates actually prove. Integration testing is still required.
OCPP also covers only the charger-to-management-system connection. It does not itself provide payment processing, invoices or a driver app. Communication between the vehicle and charger is handled by standards such as ISO 15118.
How does amina use OCPP?
amina C and C2 use local OCPP 1.6J to connect directly to charge point management systems. Their current hardware is also prepared for OCPP 2.0.1. Availability of a particular function still depends on the charger generation, firmware and chosen CPMS.
OCPP questions
Can any OCPP charger connect to any CPMS?
Not automatically. Both sides need compatible versions and functions, and the exact combination should be tested.
Is OCPP free?
The specification can be downloaded free of charge. Development, testing and certification still involve costs.
Does a private home charger need OCPP?
Not necessarily. OCPP matters when a charger needs central management, remote operation or integration with a chosen backend.
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