What is OCPP?
Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) is an open-source communication standard between EV chargers and central management systems. Think of it as the universal language that lets any OCPP-compliant charger talk to any OCPP-compliant software platform.
Why OCPP Matters
Vendor Independence
Without OCPP, you're locked into a single manufacturer's ecosystem. If their software fails or prices increase, you're stuck. OCPP lets you switch management platforms without replacing hardware.
Interoperability
As charging networks grow, different brands need to work together. OCPP ensures a Tata-manufactured charger can be managed by the same platform as a SpiderEV charger.
Future-Proofing
OCPP is actively maintained by the Open Charge Alliance with versions evolving to support new features. Investing in OCPP-compliant hardware protects against obsolescence.
OCPP Versions
OCPP 1.6J (Most Common)
- JSON/WebSocket based communication
- Supports core charging operations
- Remote start/stop, configuration, firmware updates
- Smart charging profiles
- Widely supported by all major manufacturers
OCPP 2.0.1 (Latest)
- Enhanced security (TLS, device management)
- ISO 15118 support (Plug & Charge)
- Improved smart charging capabilities
- Better support for energy management
- Display message management
What to Look for When Buying Chargers
- OCPP 1.6J minimum — ensures compatibility with current platforms
- OCPP 2.0.1 ready — future-proof investment
- Certified compliance — not just "OCPP compatible" marketing
- WebSocket connectivity — more reliable than SOAP-based older versions
SpiderEV and OCPP
All SpiderEV chargers ship with OCPP 1.6J compliance, ensuring seamless integration with our SpiderConnect CPMS and third-party platforms. This gives operators flexibility to choose their management solution without hardware constraints.