Introduction

Released in 2015, OCPP 1.6J is a widely adopted protocol version that utilizes JSON over WebSockets for communication. Its primary objective is to facilitate seamless interaction between EV charging stations and central systems, promoting interoperability regardless of the manufacturer..

Key Features of OCPP 1.6J:

Smart Charging: Supports predefined charging profiles, allowing for basic load balancing and scheduling. Remote Management: Enables remote start/stop of charging sessions, firmware updates, and diagnostics. Authorization: Provides mechanisms for user authentication through RFID cards or other identification methods. Reservation: Allows users to reserve charging stations in advance. Data Transfer: Facilitates the exchange of meter values and status notifications between the charger and central system. Limitations of OCPP 1.6J: Security: Lacks advanced security features, relying primarily on basic TLS encryption without mutual authentication. Smart Charging Flexibility: Charging profiles are static and cannot adapt dynamically to real-time conditions. Device Management: Limited capabilities in monitoring and managing complex charging station configurations.

Limitations of OCPP 1.6J:

Security: Lacks advanced security features, relying primarily on basic TLS encryption without mutual authentication. Smart Charging Flexibility: Charging profiles are static and cannot adapt dynamically to real-time conditions. Device Management: Limited capabilities in monitoring and managing complex charging station configurations.

How OCPP Evolved: OCPP 2.0.1 and OCPP 2.1:

The EV industry kept moving fast, and so did OCPP. OCPP 2.0.1 (released in 2020) and the newer OCPP 2.1 (finalized in 2025) bring major upgrades to meet modern EV needs. Key Improvements in OCPP 2.0.1: Dynamic Smart Charging: Charging power can adapt in real-time based on grid conditions or electricity prices. Stronger Security: Features mutual TLS authentication and certificate management. Device Management: Allows detailed monitoring and control of charger components (like power modules, communication modules, etc.). Plug & Charge: Supports ISO 15118 standard — allowing automatic vehicle authentication without RFID cards. Better Messaging: Consolidates communication to reduce traffic and improve speed.

What's New in OCPP 2.1?

OCPP 2.1 builds on everything in 2.0.1 but adds even more future-proof features: Bidirectional Charging (V2G): Enables EVs to both charge and feed power back into the grid. Integration with Renewable Energy: Supports energy storage and solar/wind power systems. Advanced Payment Options: Allows for prepaid cards, ad-hoc QR code payments, etc. Battery Swapping: Supports stations where EV drivers can swap batteries instead of waiting to charge. Session Recovery: If a charging session is interrupted, it can resume without losing data.

Feature	OCPP 1.6J	OCPP 2.0.1	OCPP 2.1
Communication Method	WebSocket (JSON)	WebSocket (JSON + compression)	WebSocket (JSON + compression)
Security	Basic TLS	Certificate Management, mutual TLS	Enhanced profiles
Smart Charging	Static Scheduling	Real-Time Adjustments	Dynamic + V2G Support
Plug & Charge (ISO 15118)	No	Yes	Yes (Enhanced)
Device Management	Limited	Full Charger & Subsystem Control	Advanced Diagnostics
Payment Support	Basic RFID	Flexible Billing Models	Prepaid, QR Codes, More
Battery Swapping Support	No	No	Yes

Key Trends for OCPP 1.6J, 2.0.1, and 2.1

OCPP 1.6J remains the most commonly deployed version globally today. Its simplicity, lower costs, and wide compatibility make it ideal for networks that don't yet need advanced features. OCPP 2.0.1 adoption is growing quickly, especially among newer commercial projects, public fast chargers, and fleets that demand dynamic smart charging and advanced security. OCPP 2.1 is still new, but it is gaining attention among innovators, especially those investing in V2G (Vehicle-to-Grid) projects, renewable energy integration, and advanced payment models. As more automakers support bidirectional charging and Plug & Charge (ISO 15118), demand for OCPP 2.1 is expected to surge over the next few years.

Conclusion

OCPP has been a game-changer for the EV charging world, allowing chargers and networks from different brands to work together seamlessly. While OCPP 1.6J remains the backbone of many charging networks today, the industry is clearly moving toward OCPP 2.0.1 and 2.1 — unlocking smarter, more secure, and future-ready charging ecosystems. Whether you're building a simple home network or a smart, V2G-ready commercial hub, choosing the right OCPP version will shape your project's success. The future of EV charging is smart, dynamic, and connected — and OCPP is right at the heart of it.