What is the difference between OCPP and OSCP

OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol) and OSCP (Open Smart Charging Protocol) are two distinct protocols used in the electric vehicle (EV) charging ecosystem, each serving different purposes:

What is the difference between OCPP and OSCP

▶ OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol)

OCPP is a communication protocol between EV chargers and Charging Management Systems of EV charger operators. It handles:

  • Exchange of charging data
  • Communication between EVs and the grid system
  • Installation of EV chargers
  • User sign-up
  • Enabling charging with mobile apps, RFID cards, or QR codes

OCPP is widely used in public charging networks and supports functions such as authentication, authorization, start/stop charging, and billing.

▶ OSCP (Open Smart Charging Protocol)

OSCP, on the other hand, is a protocol between a charging management system and a smart charging service provider (SCSP). Its main functions include:

  • Providing a 24-hour forecast of the accessible capacity of an electricity grid
  • Setting the overall load available to a charging site
  • Enabling the charging management system to distribute available load between EV chargers using dynamic load balancing

OSCP is primarily used to optimize charging times and avoid exceeding grid capacity limits.

▶ Key Differences

Communication Partners:

  • OCPP: Between EV chargers and charging management systems
  • OSCP: Between charging management systems and smart charging service providers

Primary Function:

  • OCPP: Manages individual charging sessions and charger operations
  • OSCP: Manages overall grid capacity and load distribution

Scope:

  • OCPP: Focuses on charger-level operations
  • OSCP: Focuses on grid-level capacity management

Both protocols are maintained by the Open Charge Alliance (OCA) and play crucial roles in the EV charging infrastructure, working together to ensure efficient and smart charging operations.

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