What is the difference between OCPP and OCPI?

In the world of electric vehicle (EV) charging, there are different protocols and standards that enable communication between charging stations and back-end systems. Two commonly used protocols are OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol) and OCPI (Open Charge Point Interface). While both protocols serve the same purpose, there are certain differences that set them apart. This article aims to shed light on these differences in a simple and easy-to-understand manner.

OCPPOpen Standard for Charging Point Communication

OCPP is an open standard protocol that facilitates communication between charging stations and central management systems. It defines a set of messages, commands, and data formats to enable interoperability between different charging hardware and software providers. OCPP supports various functionalities such as starting and stopping charging sessions, collecting real-time data, reporting metrics, and even performing diagnostics.

OCPI: A Standard for Interoperability Between Charging Networks

Unlike OCPP, which focuses on the communication between charging points and management systems, OCPI is designed to promote interoperability between different charging networks. It sets forth a standard for exchanging information about charging locations, pricing, availability, and other relevant data across multiple networks and service providers. OCPI enables EV drivers to access charging services from different providers using a unified interface.

Differences in Scope and Implementation

The main difference between OCPP and OCPI lies in their scope and application. OCPP is primarily concerned with enabling communication at the individual charging point level, allowing for seamless integration between hardware components and central management systems. On the other hand, OCPI aims to establish a common language for sharing information between charging networks so that EV drivers can easily locate and utilize charging stations regardless of the network they belong to.

While OCPP is widely adopted by charging station manufacturers and system operators, OCPI is gaining popularity as more charging networks emerge across different regions. The implementation of OCPP requires the support of both the charging hardware and central software systems, ensuring compatibility and interoperability. OCPI, on the other hand, relies on APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) to enable data exchange between charging networks and service providers.

Conclusion

In summary, OCPP and OCPI are two important protocols in the EV charging industry, serving different purposes. OCPP focuses on communication at the individual charging point level, allowing seamless integration with central management systems. On the other hand, OCPI promotes interoperability between charging networks, enabling EV drivers to access charging services from multiple providers using a unified interface. Understanding the differences between these protocols is crucial for stakeholders in the EV charging ecosystem and ultimately contributes to the growth and development of sustainable transportation.