Learn how OCPP enables interoperability in EV charging.

Being an eMobility leader in various projects across multiple startups, Piotr was responsible for OCPI and OCPP integration as well as EMP and CPO platforms development. With extensive expertise in the open standards field and eMobility tech solutions, he is leading teams of experienced developers and contributing with invaluable knowledge and experience.

Piotr Majcher

: the backbone of any thriving EV charging network.

Without it, we'd be looking at a patchwork of systems struggling to talk to each other. And that's not the kind of future anyone wants to plug into.

That's where open standards come in. Designed to eliminate silos and future-proof infrastructure, they're essential for scaling EV charging networks smartly and sustainably. Among them, the 

 stands out as the go-to framework for enabling communication between charging stations and backend systems.

In this article, we'll break down OCPP's role in the eMobility ecosystem and unpack the differences between its key versions: 

, so you can better understand where the industry's headed and what it means for your EV charging business or tech stack.

 is an open-source communication standard that enables electric vehicle (EV) charging stations to interact seamlessly with backend systems, such as Charging Station Management Systems (CSMS). It connects charging hardware to software platforms, regardless of the manufacturer.

Developed by the Open Charge Alliance (OCA), OCPP ensures interoperability across networks, making it easier for Charging Point Operators (CPOs) to manage stations, process billing, enable remote diagnostics, and scale their EV charging infrastructure.

, and an open standard, meaning anyone can develop applications that use it. However, it is not a mandatory industry requirement; while the OCA highly recommends its use, EVSE manufacturers are not obligated to produce OCPP-compliant hardware.

In terms of its role in the EV charging ecosystem, understanding OCPP's placement is crucial. OCPP acts as the communication syntax connecting the Charging Station Management System (CSMS) used by CPOs to control their networks with the physical charging stations.

 for identifying EV drivers and starting/stopping charges.

 to transfer charging event data to the backend system for user billing.

, to enable CPOs to monitor station statuses (e.g., in-use, faulted).

Unlike proprietary protocols that lock you into a specific ecosystem, OCPP is vendor-agnostic and future-proof. It empowers eMobility providers to build scalable, secure, and flexible networks, critical as EV adoption accelerates globally.

Promotes interoperability in EV infrastructure

Reduces vendor lock-in with open standards

Supports real-time communication and smart charging

Backed by a global ecosystem of stakeholders

: Adopting the latest OCPP version (currently 2.0.1) ensures better security, ISO 15118 compatibility (Plug & Charge), and long-term scalability

Versions and evolution of the Open Charge Point Protocol

 has evolved to support new technical capabilities, stronger security, and better compatibility with modern charging infrastructure. While multiple versions exist, the most widely implemented today is 

 being the most current and feature-rich version. The following sections outline the key differences and improvements introduced in each.

Released as a major step forward from version 1.5 (now largely obsolete), 

 added a wide range of enhancements that made it the de facto industry standard for several years. Below is a summary of the most notable features and improvements introduced in this version.

 was introduced as a transport protocol, reducing data usage and enabling communication through NAT routers.

 were added to the ChargePointStatus enumeration, offering more insight into station status.

Changes to the structure of MeterValues.req to remove XML attributes, which supports JSON compatibility.

 in the enumeration allowed for more detailed station data (e.g., EV State of Charge).

 function enabled the central system to request data from the charge point.

A new Pending status was added to the RegistrationStatus enumeration used in BootNotification.conf.

, giving CPOs clearer guidelines for setup.

, including connector numbering and request/response handling.

(Please note: this extract comes from the 

, available in full from the Open Charge Alliance.)

OCPP 2.0 was introduced in April 2018. However, certain issues were later discovered, some significant enough to require backward-incompatible changes. For example, adjustments like increasing the security certificate length couldn't be resolved by documentation tweaks alone. As a result, OCPP 2.0.1 was released and is now the version recommended by the Open Charge Alliance for use in production environments.

As the OCPP standard evolves, it's essential for charging station operators and manufacturers to stay updated with the latest versions. Doing so ensures compatibility with the latest CSMS software and access to new OCPP features.

Compared to version 1.6, these newer versions introduced several impactful changes:

Significant security enhancements, addressing previous vulnerabilities.

 replaced older Status Notifications for improved infrastructure control.

 to support more complex and larger-scale EV charging networks.

The official Open Charge Point protocol documentation consists of 7 parts:

JSON over WebSockets implementation guide

Building smarter, scalable EV charging networks with OCPP

As EV adoption surges, seamless communication between charging stations and backend systems becomes a foundation, not a feature. The Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) offers exactly that: a standardized, future-proof way to ensure your infrastructure can grow, adapt, and stay secure.

Whether you're deploying your first charging station or you're already a larger network operator, OCPP compliance ensures you're staying ahead.

FAQs about OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol)

OCPP is an open-source communication protocol for EV charging stations that ensures different hardware and backend systems can work together seamlessly. It improves 

, scalability, and network management for charging station operators.

The OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol) enables real-time, two-way communication between EV charging stations and Charging Station Management Systems (CSMS). Using WebSocket and JSON (in versions 1.6 and 2.0.1), the protocol manages key operations like session authorization, billing data transfer, remote control, diagnostics, and smart charging. OCPP standardizes how messages are structured and exchanged, ensuring interoperability across different hardware and software proprietary systems in the EV ecosystem.

What's the difference between OCPP 2.0 and 2.0.1?

OCPP 2.0.1 is an enhanced and stable version of OCPP 2.0, introduced to address technical gaps, security vulnerabilities, and interoperability issues found in the original 2.0 release. While both versions support advanced features like Plug and Charge (via ISO 15118) and smart charging, OCPP 2.0.1 includes critical fixes without backwards compatibility, making it the version officially recommended by the Open Charge Alliance for all new implementations. It ensures smoother deployments, better security compliance, and full compatibility with certified systems.

No. OCPP protocol is a recommended but not mandatory standard. Hardware manufacturers and CPOs are encouraged to adopt it and get OCPP certification for greater interoperability and flexibility.

 capabilities, allowing electric vehicles to automatically identify themselves and begin charging without manual authorization.

What is the Solidstudio OCPP Gateway, and why is it essential for EV charging infrastructure?

 is a hardware-agnostic bridge that connects EV charging stations with backend software using the OCPP 1.6 or 2.0.1 protocol. Designed for stability and scalability, it enables Charge Point Operators to manage remote diagnostics, smart charging, and transaction handling across diverse EV charger models, saving time, boosting reliability, and ensuring full OCPP compliance.

What is the Solidstudio OCPP Proxy, and how does it simplify EV charging network operations?

 is a lightweight, high-performance tool that enables dynamic routing of OCPP WebSocket traffic between charging stations and multiple central management systems. Ideal for network migrations, testing, and disaster recovery, it allows Charge Point Operators to duplicate traffic, inspect logs, debug communication, and switch backend connections with a single click, ensuring seamless interoperability across large-scale EV infrastructures.

Learn how OCPP enables interoperability in EV charging. Explore the key differences between OCPP 1.6, 2.0, and 2.0.1, and why they matter.

OCPP: The Open Standard for EV Charging You Need to Know

Learn how V2G works, which EVs and chargers support it, and how it helps cut energy costs.

Aldona is a Content Manager whose ultimate goal is to tell you a good story, not compromising on the knowledge-sharing part.

Aldona Krysiak-Adamczyk

Most people buy an electric car to save on fuel, cut emissions, or keep up with the shift toward cleaner transport. But what if your EV could also help power your home, or your entire neighborhood, when it's parked?

. It can turn your car's EV battery into a device that can support the electrical grid when demand spikes, prices rise, or renewable sources dip.

And it becomes more relevant every year. With EV adoption on the rise and energy management systems under pressure, especially during heatwaves, cold snaps, or energy transitions, technologies like V2G could help reduce grid strain, cut costs, and accelerate the shift to smarter, more sustainable infrastructure.

What V2G means (and how it’s different from V2H or V2X)

The benefits and challenges of connecting EVs to the grid

Vehicle-to-Grid is a technology that allows electric vehicles (EVs) to both charge from and supply power back to the electricity grid.

When your EV is parked, it’s usually not doing anything. With V2G, that unused battery capacity can become an energy source. Your car can help balance electricity demand, reduce pressure on the grid, and even support renewable energy systems like solar and wind.

. Unlike traditional chargers, which only send power one way (into the car), V2G setups use special chargers and software to send power both ways.

Not every car or charger supports this yet. But the number of V2G-capable EVs is growing fast, and energy providers are actively testing it through pilot programs worldwide.

Vehicle-to-Grid works through a system that connects your electric car, a special charger, and the 

Here’s a simple step-by-step breakdown:

You plug in your EV at home, work, or a public charging spot.

The charger "talks" to your car and the grid using smart communication protocols based on 

The power grid sends a signal when it needs extra power during peak hours or energy shortfalls.

Your EV sends energy back into the electrical grid within limits you set, so you're never left with an empty battery.

You get rewarded through reduced energy bills, credits, or even payments in some programs.

A V2G-capable EV car model (like the Nissan Leaf or Hyundai Ioniq 5)

A bidirectional charger (not just any charger will do)

 software to manage schedules, limits, and data

Utility or aggregator support (not all regions support energy return yet)

In short: V2G transforms your car from a passive power consumer into an active part of the energy management ecosystem.

Electric vehicles aren’t just about cleaner transport anymore. They become part of the energy grid itself.

More electric vehicles = more car battery power

With millions of EVs expected on the road in the next few years, the total car battery capacity sitting idle (especially overnight) is massive. V2G taps into that potential, turning parked cars into assets.

As energy demand increases, particularly during heat waves, winter storms, or evening peaks, grids are pushed to their limits. Instead of firing up more fossil fuel power plants, utilities can fill those gaps with electricity stored in 

Wind and solar power are great, but not always predictable. V2G helps smooth out their ups and downs by storing excess energy during the day and releasing it when needed, especially at night.

EV owners can save money (or even earn it) by selling energy back during high-demand periods. Some V2G programs offer incentives, credits, or reduced electricity costs.

Smarter cities, smarter charging infrastructure

V2G fits perfectly into the vision of smart cities where mobility, energy, and digital services work together. Instead of building new infrastructure, we use what’s already there: your car.

 continues to rise, the question isn’t 

. And for businesses building the platforms behind this tech, the time to get ready is now.

Not every electric car can do Vehicle-to-Grid yet, but that’s starting to change.

Here’s a list of car manufacturers and models currently supporting (or soon enabling) V2G, based on compatibility with bidirectional charging standards like CHAdeMO plug or ISO 15118:

Nissan Leaf (all models) - one of the first to support V2G via CHAdeMO.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 / Ioniq 6 - V2G-ready in select regions using ISO 15118.

Kia EV9 - Launching with bidirectional charging capabilities.

Volkswagen ID. Buzz / ID.4 (2024+) - Select models rolling out ISO 15118 support.

Renault Zoe (with compatible chargers) - Limited pilot support in France and the EU.

BYD Atto 3 / Tang EV - V2G being tested in Asia-Pacific and Europe.

Ford F-150 Lightning - Supports V2H (vehicle-to-home), V2G coming via updates.

Tesla (Model S, 3, X, Y) - No official V2G support as of 2025, though speculation continues.

Compatibility note: It’s not just the car. Your EV needs a compatible charger and local grid support. Some vehicles support V2H or V2L (powering your home or devices) but not full V2G yet.

💡 Tip: Before buying an EV for V2G, check with both your utility provider and charger manufacturer for compatibility.

To use Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G), you need a compatible car and the right charger. Specifically, a bidirectional charger that can handle energy flowing both in and out of your EV.

Most EV chargers are unidirectional: they pull energy from the grid and send it to your car. A bidirectional charger, on the other hand, can reverse that flow, allowing your EV to discharge energy back to the grid, your home, or a building.

These chargers work with protocols like CHAdeMO or ISO 15118, and they also need smart software to manage communication, safety, and energy timing.

Supports CHAdeMO and is designed for home use. One of the most well-known consumer-level V2G chargers.

UK-based brand in multiple pilot programs. Works with Nissan Leaf and grid-supported setups.

A hybrid home energy station combining solar, battery, and V2G support.

Designed for school buses, fleets, and depot use.

Capable of bidirectional energy flow with large power loads.

Smart grid-ready and scalable for enterprise needs.

V2G chargers are more expensive than regular ones. As of 2025:

: ~$3,000–$6,000 USD(plus installation and grid coordination)

: $10,000+ depending on power level, software, and fleet size

Even the best hardware needs a smart backend. V2G software platforms manage charge timing, pricing, energy limits, and communication with the grid. This is where companies like 

 help make the experience seamless and compliant.

Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) creates real value for drivers, utilities, and the environment. Here’s how:

You can sell unused energy back to the grid during peak demand. Some programs offer monthly payments, energy credits, or reduced rates.

You can charge when rates are low, discharge when they’re high, V2G helps optimize energy costs.

In V2G or V2H setups, your EV can provide electricity during blackouts, similar to a home battery.

Smart apps let you set limits so your battery doesn’t get too low, while still helping the grid.

EVs can feed power into the grid during peak times, reducing the need for peaker plants or emergency generation.

V2G helps maintain stable voltage and frequency, especially during power surges or high usage periods.

Use EVs for renewable energy storage during the day, then feed it back when it’s needed, like after sunset.

Every kilowatt-hour discharged from an EV replaces energy that might otherwise come from gas turbines.

V2G makes it easier to integrate variable renewables into the grid without wasting excess energy.

Use buses, delivery vans, or company EVs to earn money while they’re parked.

With the right setup, fleets can offset energy costs or even turn a profit from energy sales.

Software can time charging/discharging around usage patterns and energy markets.

In short: V2G makes EVs more useful, the grid more stable, and the energy system cleaner.

What Are the Disadvantages or Risks of V2G?

While V2G has a lot of potential, it’s not without its limitations. The technology is still maturing, and there are a few hurdles that EV owners, grid operators, and developers need to keep in mind.

Not all electric vehicles support bidirectional charging. Most current models can only 

 power, not send it back. Compatibility depends on both the vehicle’s hardware and the charging protocol it supports.

V2G-capable chargers are significantly more costly than standard home chargers. Installation can also be complex, requiring permits, inspections, and sometimes grid utility coordination.

There’s a common worry that frequent discharging could wear out EV batteries faster. However, recent studies suggest that smart V2G management can actually 

 battery life by keeping charge levels balanced and reducing idle time.

What is V2G? Learn how Vehicle-to-Grid works, which EVs and chargers support it, and how it helps cut energy costs, stabilize the grid, and boost sustainability.

What Is V2G? Vehicle-to-Grid Explained (2025 Guide)

Wondering if EV charging stations are profitable in 2025? Discover it in this guide.

Is running EV charging stations profitable?

If you've ever wondered about it, you're not alone. As electric vehicles become more common on the roads, a lot of business owners, landlords, and investors are starting to ask the same thing: 

how much money can you really make from owning a charging station?

This guide breaks down the real numbers behind the EV charging station profit margin: what it costs to get started in the EV market, what kind of income you can expect, and how long it might take to turn a profit. We’ll also cover the different ways EV stations make money, the role of Tesla in all this, and whether it’s worth the investment in 2025.

You’ll get clear answers to practical questions like:

Is buying a charging station a good investment?

How much does installing EV charging stations cost to start?

Can you actually make money owning a Tesla charger?

If you're thinking about getting into the EV space, or just want to know if this is a business worth considering, this article will give you the facts, not the hype.

What is the EV charging station profit margin?

Profit margins for EV charging stations vary widely depending on location, charger type, and how the station is monetized. Nonetheless, the range typically falls between 

At the low end, public Level 2 EV chargers in low-traffic areas may struggle to break even, especially when factoring in maintenance, network fees, and electricity costs. On the high end, fast-charging (DCFC) stations located near highways or in urban centers can generate solid business profits, particularly when bundled with other services such as food, retail, or advertising.

What can make your EV charging stations profitable?

: Station owners buy electricity wholesale and resell it at a retail rate, often with a 20–50% markup.

: EV chargers sitting idle make nothing. Long-term profitability hinges on usage volume.

: These peak-use penalties from utilities can significantly eat into margins if not managed carefully.

: Some of the best-performing EV charging stations earn additional income from on-site retail, ads, or fleet contracts.

Example Breakdown (per charger, monthly):

Operational costs (maintenance + network fees)

: $300–$1,200 (approx. 15–30% margin)

In short, EV charging can be a profitable business, but only if you manage your costs, find the right location, and keep chargers busy. Treat it like a real business, not a passive asset.

Is the EV charging station business profitable?

Yes, but only under the right conditions. EV charging isn't a guaranteed cash cow, and like most infrastructure businesses, success depends on usage, location, and smart cost management.

 are cheaper to install but slower to charge. They work well in workplaces or residential areas with long dwell times.

 are more expensive, but the charging speed is incomparable (minutes vs. hours), and command higher rates as a result.


EV chargers in busy commercial areas, near highways, or paired with retail often outperform those in remote or residential-only areas. The more cars flowing through, the faster you reach ROI.

Stations that combine charging with other revenue streams (retail, ads, convenience stores) can maximize profitability more easily.

Most profitable EV charging businesses report 

 for fast-charging stations, sometimes quicker with government grants or fleet deals. Level 2 stations may take longer, unless paired with a high-volume location or used to support a broader business strategy (like boosting foot traffic or tenant value).

 Passive installs in low-use areas won’t cut it. But strategic deployments in smart locations with the right 

 can turn into scalable and steady revenue streams.

Revenue streams: How does EV charging infrastructure make money?

Most people think EV stations only make money by charging for—well, charging. But in reality, there are 

, and the most profitable stations stack them.

At the heart of every EV charging station is the simple business model: buy electricity at wholesale utility rates and sell it at a markup. Depending on your location and utility agreements, margins range from 

But here’s the catch: long-term profitability hinges on volume. The more sessions per day, the more that markup matters.

Some networks charge drivers when they leave their car plugged in after it's fully charged. Station owners often get a cut of these fees, a small but passive income stream.

High-traffic chargers with digital displays can sell ad space to local businesses or brands. In some locations, this revenue can rival or even surpass charging fees.

Many charging stations are installed outside cafes, convenience stores, or malls, either owned by the station operator or in partnership. Charging time = dwell time = opportunity to sell more coffee, snacks, or services.

B2B revenue is growing fast. Delivery companies, rideshare fleets, and municipalities often pay a monthly rate for priority access, maintenance guarantees, or volume pricing.

Some operators offer their stations as a managed service. Landlords or businesses pay a flat fee to have stations installed, while the provider keeps the usage revenue.

 The most successful EV station operators think like retailers and infrastructure providers, layering multiple income streams to drive profitability.

Startup operational costs and investment analysis

Installing EV chargers isn't cheap, but it’s also not out of reach for most small business owners or real estate investors. The cost depends heavily on the type of charger, site complexity, and local incentives.

These numbers include trenching, electrical upgrades, network integration, and permitting—all the behind-the-scenes work that most first-time investors overlook.

Electricity costs: $300–$1,000 per charger

Insurance: Varies by provider and location

Government incentives can cut costs in half

Federal, state, and utility rebates can cover 

 of installation costs, particularly for DC fast chargers in underserved areas or along key transit corridors.

: 3–5 years payback (if well-located and consistently used)

: 2–3 years, especially with subsidies or fleet deals

Profit margins grow substantially once CapEx is recouped

: This is a long-game investment, not a quick flip. But for landlords, developers, or forward-looking entrepreneurs, EV charging can be a strong infrastructure play, especially when paired with existing foot traffic or real estate.

Can you make money owning a Tesla charging station?

Wondering if EV charging stations are profitable in 2025? Discover real profit margins, ROI examples, costs, and revenue tips in this Solidstudio expert guide.

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