What is OCPP 1.6 protocol?

OCPP 1.6 (Open Charge Point Protocol version 1.6) is a widely used communication protocol in the field of electric vehicle (EV) charging. It defines a standard set of messages and data formats for exchanging information between an Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) or charging station and a Central System or Charging Point Operator (CPO). This protocol enables interoperability and seamless integration among different manufacturers' charging stations, providing convenience and flexibility to EV owners.

Key features of OCPP 1.6 protocol

OCPP 1.6 protocol offers several important features that make it reliable and efficient for EV charging. Firstly, it supports both local and remote management of charging sessions, allowing real-time monitoring and control of charging processes. Secondly, it includes security measures such as message encryption and authentication, ensuring the privacy and integrity of data transmission. Additionally, OCPP 1.6 supports various charging-related functionalities such as tariff management, reservation of charging slots, and load management, making it suitable for public and private charging infrastructure.

How does OCPP 1.6 protocol work?

At its core, OCPP 1.6 protocol operates on a client-server model, where the charging station acts as the client, and the Central System/CPO serves as the server. The communication between them takes place over various transport protocols like TCP/IP or WebSocket. When a charging session is initiated, the client sends a predefined set of messages to the server, notifying it about the start of charging and providing essential information such as the EV's identification, requested charging power, and desired charging duration. Throughout the charging process, the server can monitor and control different parameters like charging status, power limits, or authorize payment. Once the session concludes, the client sends a message to the server indicating the completion of charging.

Benefits and adoption of OCPP 1.6 protocol

The wide adoption of OCPP 1.6 protocol brings numerous benefits to the EV charging ecosystem. Firstly, it promotes compatibility among different charging stations and service providers, enabling seamless roaming capabilities for EV owners. With OCPP 1.6, EV drivers do not need to rely on specific charging networks and can access any compatible charging station within the network. Additionally, the widespread use of OCPP 1.6 facilitates the development of innovative charging management systems and software applications that enhance user experience and optimize charging infrastructure performance. As a result, this protocol plays a crucial role in advancing the growth and sustainability of electric vehicle adoption worldwide.