What Is OCPP?

OCPP versions include OCPP 1.2, OCPP 1.5, OCPP 1.6, OCPP 2.0, OCPP 2.0.1, and OCPP 2.1. Among them, OCPP 1.6 remains the most widely deployed version worldwide, while OCPP 2.0.1 and OCPP 2.1 introduce advanced use cases such as smart charging, enhanced security, and energy management.

The Open Charge Point Protocol consists of two main components: the charging station and the central management system. The protocol defines message flows for operations such as charge start/stop, authorization, metering data reporting, and firmware updates.

The key advantages of OCPP include:

• Interoperability
• Reduced deployment and operational costs
• Scalability
• Improved security
• Vendor independence

Supported by the Open Charge Alliance, utilities, manufacturers, and software providers, OCPP has achieved global adoption. To be OCPP-compliant, both charging stations and backend platforms must implement certified versions of the protocol.

The Open Charge Point Interface (OCPI) complements OCPP but serves a different purpose. While OCPP enables communication between charging stations and backend systems, OCPI focuses on roaming and data exchange between service providers.

OCPP versions include 1.2, 1.5, 1.6, 2.0, 2.0.1, and 2.1. Each version extends the protocol’s capabilities to meet the evolving demands of the EV charging market.

OCPP 1.2 and 1.5 introduced the first interoperable communication standards.

OCPP 1.6 became the most widely adopted version globally.

OCPP 2.0.1 and OCPP 2.1 deliver advanced features for energy management, diagnostics, and security.

Key Differences Between OCPP Versions

Feature	OCPP 1.6	OCPP 2.0.1	OCPP 2.1
Release Year	2015	2020	2023
Communication	JSON over WebSocket (SOAP optional)	JSON over WebSocket	JSON over WebSocket
Smart Charging	Basic profiles	Advanced, flexible profiles	Extended grid integration
Security	TLS support	Message signing, enhanced security	Stronger security aligned with energy standards
Device Management	Firmware updates, error reporting	Remote diagnostics, modular device model	Expanded diagnostics and richer device modeling
Energy Management	Basic functions	V2G, load balancing	Improved V2G and energy market integration
Market Adoption	Most widely used	Rapidly growing	Future-oriented, emerging standard

 

2. How Does OCPP Work?

OCPP operates through standardized messages exchanged between charging stations and central systems. It defines how EV chargers communicate with backend platforms, ensuring interoperability across the entire EV charging ecosystem.

Core Components in OCPP Communication

·OCPP Server
Typically cloud-hosted, the OCPP server acts as the central hub for message exchange. It processes requests such as session authorization, meter readings, and firmware updates.

·OCPP EV Charger
The charging station communicates with the server using OCPP messages. It reports status, receives start/stop commands, and shares transaction data, ensuring compatibility with various backend systems.

·Charge Point Operator (CPO)
The CPO manages the charging infrastructure. Using OCPP, operators monitor charger performance, handle user authentication, and manage billing across the network.

·Charge Point Management System (CPMS)
The CPMS is backend software connected to chargers via an OCPP server. It provides dashboards, analytics, and remote control tools to ensure efficient operation.

·OCPP Gateway / REST API
The gateway or API bridges non-OCPP systems with OCPP-compliant chargers and management platforms by converting data formats and enabling third-party integration.

3. MicroOcpp: A Lightweight OCPP Solution for Embedded Systems

For resource-constrained embedded environments, MicroOcppprovides an optimized OCPP protocol stack with several key advantages:

Ultra-low resource consumption
Written in C/C++ and optimized for microcontrollers and embedded Linux systems.

Comprehensive protocol support
Fully compatible with OCPP 1.6 and supports upgrades to OCPP 2.0.1.

Modular architecture
Developers can compile only required features, maximizing hardware resource efficiency.

Developer-friendly
Clear APIs and extensive examples significantly reduce integration complexity.

4. Deployment Practice: Building an OCPP Communication System from Scratch

4.1 Server Environment Setup

A SteVe OCPP server was deployed using Docker containers. As an open-source central management system, SteVe provides comprehensive charging station management capabilities, including WebSocket communication handling, charging status monitoring, and remote command execution.

4.2 Client Deployment Key Steps

On the MYD-YF13Xplatform running Linux 6.6.78, the MicroOcpp client was deployed by cross-compiling the source code to generate ARM-optimized binaries. GPIO pins were configured to simulate charging gun connection states, with two GPIOs representing two charging connectors.

4.3 Establishing Server–Client Communication

After deployment, the client successfully established a WebSocket connection with the SteVe server. Newly connected charging stations appeared in the server management interface in real time, confirming correct protocol interaction and network connectivity.

4.4 Status Reporting Validation

By toggling GPIO levels to simulate plug-in and unplug events, the client reported connector status changes to the server in real time. The server interface reflected these updates instantly, verifying the reliability of the end-to-end communication chain.

5. Conclusion: OCPP as a Core Enabler for NexwayEV’s Charging Solutions

As global EV charging infrastructure continues to standardize, OCPP compliance has become a critical requirement for market-ready charging products. For manufacturers and solution providers, seamless interoperability, scalability, and secure communication are no longer optional—they are essential.

At NexwayEV, our portfolio of AC chargers, DC fast chargers, mobile and portable chargers, as well as high-quality charging cords and cables, is designed with this ecosystem in mind. By aligning our hardware solutions with open standards like OCPP, NexwayEV empowers operators, integrators, and OEM partners to deploy reliable, future-proof EV charging systems across diverse markets.

Through standardized protocols, flexible deployment options, and robust hardware design, NexwayEV continues to support the global transition to electric mobility—delivering charging solutions that are not only compliant, but also scalable, interoperable, and ready for the next generation of smart energy networks.