OCPP 2.0.1 explained: Key benefits for the EV ecosystem

OCPP 2.0.1 is a major advancement in the evolution of EV charging infrastructure, providing significant improvements in security, interoperability, and functionality.

In general, the Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) is designed to make the connection between charging stations and central systems and enable remote management of the network.

It acts like a universal language for electric vehicle infrastructure, allowing any central system to communicate with any charging station, no matter the manufacturer. By using a single standard, OCPP removes potential integration headaches and creates a more streamlined experience for everyone in the electric vehicle world - hardware manufacturers, software providers, CPOs and EV drivers alike!

As with any technology, OCPP evolves over time to meet the changing needs of its users. In this article, we will look at OCPP 2.0.1 vs 1.6, highlighting key advancements in the latest version, with an overview and an in-depth examination of specific features:

1. Charger reservation features
2. V2G features
3. ISO 15118 Plug&Charge

OCPP 1.6 vs 2.0 - what's the difference? 

When OCPP 1.6 first entered the market, its impact was huge; it revolutionised EV charging through its smart charging features like load balancing and central smart charging.

However, as with all technology, protocols must evolve over time to meet the changing needs of its users, and the most up-to-date version is now: OCPP 2.0.1. 

OCPP 2.0.1 provides better integration with modern technologies, improved security, and additional functionalities that support the future of smart charging. 

"While previous versions of OCPP have served the EV industry well up until now, OCPP 2.0.1 is a game changer for the coming years as it brings native support for many more use cases, significantly improving the customer journey for EV drivers and optimising the asset lifecycle management for business stakeholders."

Tommi Linnankoski, Director of Go-to-Market

Essentially, for those involved in the evolving EV charging ecosystem, OCPP 2.0.1 offers the tools and flexibility needed to stay ahead.

Summary of new protocol benefits

So, what exactly can the industry expect from the new protocol? OCPP 2.0.1 introduces several significant advancements aimed at enhancing the efficiency and usability of charging infrastructure. 

Some of the most notable updates include:

• Impact on the device model: OCPP 2.0.1 simplifies device installation, configuration, inventory management, maintenance, and troubleshooting. These improvements make operational workflows more efficient and reduce downtime.

• Transaction handling: The updates enhance transaction efficiency and reliability by simplifying message and status implementation. Additionally, they improve offline station behaviour management and reduce data transmission volume to optimise network performance.

• CX improvements: CX enhancements make interactions more accessible and user-friendly, with support for multiple languages to cater to diverse users. Further, they include features like displaying relevant information on charger screens and offering expanded authentication options, such as Autocharge and credit card support, to increase convenience and accessibility.

• More frequent updates: Users want to feel reassured that improvements happen more efficiently than ever. OCPP 2.0.1 allows for more frequent updates to the charging stations and back-end systems, enabling network operators to keep their systems up-to-date with the latest features, bug fixes, and security patches.
  
  
• Standardised modules: OCPP 2.0.1 promotes the standardisation of modules across various EV charging stations, making it easier for manufacturers and network operators to implement and maintain devices from different vendors. 

• Better security: Security has always been a key concern in the EV charging ecosystem, as the network must manage sensitive user data, payment information, and energy consumption details. OCPP 2.0.1 includes significant improvements in security protocols, including encrypted communication channels, secure authentication mechanisms, enhanced protection against cyber threats, and secure firmware updates. 

Below, we explore additional feature changes in detail.

1. Charger reservation features 

One of the key functionalities significantly improved in OCPP 2.0.1 is the ability to reserve charging stations in advance - particularly useful for fleets.

Reservation features are a game-changer. For drivers, it gives peace of mind by securing charging spots in advance, reducing wait times, and helping to make the entire EV charging experience smoother and more efficient.

Equally, it can help businesses manage their resources more efficiently. By knowing in advance when and where charging stations are expected to be used, operators can optimise energy distribution, plan maintenance schedules, and minimise congestion at high-demand locations.

• Convenient and flexible reservation system

With the new reservation features, drivers can book a charging station for a specific time slot, ensuring they have access to a charger when they need it. This is especially important in high-traffic areas where charging stations may often be occupied, leading to inconvenience and delays for drivers.

• Automated release of reservation

OCPP 2.0.1 introduces an automatic release mechanism, which allows charging stations to free up reserved spots if a user does not show up within a certain time frame. This ensures that stations are not unnecessarily blocked by unclaimed reservations.

> Read more about fleet reservation features.

2. V2G features

Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology is one of the most promising innovations in the EV industry, allowing electric vehicles to not only draw power from the grid but also feed energy back into it.

OCPP 2.0.1 adds several key features that facilitate the integration of V2G functionality into the charging infrastructure in a more standardised way and streamlines the implementation and operation process for the involved stakeholders.

• Energy flow management

With V2G capabilities, OCPP 2.0.1 enables the dynamic exchange of energy between electric vehicles and the grid. This feature allows for two-way communication, enabling charging stations to monitor the battery charge level of vehicles, manage the energy flow in real-time, and optimise charging processes. The protocol facilitates the intelligent management of electricity supply and demand, helping stabilise the grid and support the integration of renewable energy sources - some very exciting tech!

• Bidirectional charging

OCPP 2.0.1 enhances bidirectional charging, which is crucial for V2G applications. This allows EVs to charge as well as discharge their battery to the grid or to other devices, such as homes or businesses, providing additional flexibility for energy management. As V2G and V2X technologies become more widespread, this feature will play a central role in creating a more resilient and decentralised energy infrastructure.

3. ISO 15118 Plug&Charge

ISO 15118 is a global standard for communication between electric vehicles and charging stations. One of the standout features of OCPP 2.0.1 is its native support for ISO 15118, specifically the Plug&Charge functionality. 

• Seamless authentication

Convenience is everything. With Plug&Charge, drivers no longer need to carry RFID cards or mobile apps to authenticate themselves at charging stations. Instead, authentication occurs automatically when the EV is plugged into the charger. The vehicle’s onboard communication system sends a secure message to the charging station, allowing for instant identification of the vehicle. This removes the need for manual intervention and streamlines the user experience, making charging faster and more convenient.

• Enhanced security

By leveraging secure communication protocols and the Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) behind it, Plug&Charge ensures that both the authentication and payment processes are secure. This minimises the risk of fraud and protects user data, which is critical as the adoption of EVs and public charging stations continues to grow.

The impact of OCPP 2.0.1 on integrated payment terminals

This updated protocol is all about making charging simpler and more flexible for both drivers and service providers. One big benefit is improved payment terminal functionality. It’s now easier than ever to handle payments right at the charging station.

However, while OCPP 2.0.1 plays a pivotal role in enabling seamless communication, Charge Point Operators (CPOs) must ensure that their selected hardware and software also support payment flexibility. 

The following features are crucial for creating an excellent EV charging experience:

Support for various payment methods: Payment terminals integrated at the charging stations or placed next to them enable various payment methods, including credit/debit cards, mobile payments, and digital wallets. This flexibility ensures that users can pay for charging services using the method most convenient for them, enhancing user experience and reducing barriers to adoption.

Real-time payment tracking: With integrated payment terminal support, you can enable real-time tracking of transactions. This allows operators to monitor payment activity and provide users with accurate billing details, improving transparency and accountability in the charging process.

Simplified operator management: For charging network operators, integrated payment terminals streamline financial operations. Operators can manage all payments and user transactions from a central platform, reducing the complexity and overhead associated with managing separate payment systems. This integration also makes it easier for operators to implement promotional pricing, loyalty programs, and other business models to encourage EV adoption.

Want to chat more about OCPP 2.0.1 and the importance of hardware and software integration? Let’s talk!