OCPP Explained: What It Is and Why It Matters for Smart EV Charging (2026)
Share
Last updated: September 26, 2026 · ChargePapa Knowledge Hub
OCPP is an open communication protocol between EV charging stations and a charging-station management system (CSMS). It can support authorization, transactions, remote control, monitoring and smart-charging functions, but the exact capabilities depend on the OCPP version, certified profiles, charger implementation and CSMS.
What does OCPP actually prove?
An OCPP label should identify a version and implementation scope. Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, RFID or a mobile app do not by themselves prove OCPP support. The Open Charge Alliance offers independent certification for OCPP 1.6 and 2.0.1 implementations; buyers can use its certification resources to validate a vendor claim.
Source: Open Charge Alliance certification program.
How do OCPP 1.6 and 2.0.1 differ?
| Question | OCPP 1.6 | OCPP 2.0.1 |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility | Must match a 1.6-capable CSMS | Not backward compatible with 1.6 |
| Architecture | Established transaction and smart-charging model | Adds a device model, revised transactions and expanded security capabilities |
| Buying check | Verify exact messages, security and CSMS support | Verify Core plus any optional profiles needed by the project |
The OCA explains that 2.0.1 is a substantial change rather than an incremental extension of 1.6. Its certification program uses a mandatory Core profile with additional profiles such as Advanced Security, Smart Charging and ISO 15118 support. Sources: OCA 2.0.1 overview and OCPP 2.0.1 certification.
Who usually needs OCPP?
OCPP works best for fleets, workplaces, apartment buildings, public charging and other multi-user sites that require centralized authorization, session records, remote operations or integration with a third-party management platform. A single-home charger with local scheduling may not need it.
What can ChargePapa verify today?
The current public ChargePapa catalog does not provide sufficient evidence to claim OCPP certification or universal CSMS compatibility for a listed charger. The MRS-AU lists RFID and app control; the MRS-EJ lists RFID, LCD, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. These features are not substitutes for an OCPP version, certificate or completed interoperability test.
What should be verified before a commercial deployment?
- Exact charger SKU, firmware and OCPP version.
- Required Core and optional profiles.
- CSMS endpoint, security profile and certificate handling.
- RFID, offline authorization and transaction behavior.
- Load-management, payment and reporting requirements.
- Written interoperability evidence for the selected charger and CSMS.
What are the limitations?
This guide explains protocol selection; it does not certify a charger, CSMS or site. Certification does not replace project testing, electrical design, network planning or local compliance review. ChargePapa should only make a model-specific OCPP claim after the exact SKU and firmware evidence are available.
Frequently asked questions
What is OCPP?
OCPP is the Open Charge Point Protocol maintained by the Open Charge Alliance. It defines communication between a charging station and a charging-station management system. A Wi-Fi or app feature alone does not prove OCPP support, and a product should not be represented as OCPP-compatible without version and implementation evidence.
Is OCPP 2.0.1 backward compatible with OCPP 1.6?
No. The Open Charge Alliance states that OCPP 2.0.1 is not backward compatible with OCPP 1.6. Buyers must verify that the charger and the selected management system support the same version and required profiles.
Does ChargePapa currently list an OCPP-certified charger?
The current public ChargePapa catalog reviewed on September 26, 2026 does not provide enough evidence to claim OCPP certification for a listed charger. Commercial products may include RFID, app, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi features, but those controls should not be treated as OCPP proof.
What should a commercial buyer request before ordering?
Request the exact OCPP version, transport and security profile, certification record if claimed, supported CSMS list, offline behavior, firmware-update policy, network requirements and a project-specific interoperability test. Confirm these in writing for the exact SKU and firmware build.
Planning a managed charging site?
Start with the current Business & Fleet Charging collection, then request written confirmation of protocol, firmware and CSMS compatibility before procurement. If the connector path is still unclear, use the ChargePapa Buyer’s Guide.