In the world of electric vehicles (EVs) and their charging infrastructure, two important standards play a significant role in ensuring interoperability and standardization. They are ISO 15118 and OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol). While both standards aim to enhance the EV charging experience, they differ in their scope and purpose. In this article, we will explore the differences between ISO 15118 and OCPP.
ISO 15118: The Standard for Charging Communication
ISO 15118, also known as the International Standard for Road Vehicles - Vehicle-to-Grid Communication Interface, focuses on the communication between an EV and a charging station. This standard defines how vehicles and charging infrastructure can exchange information for efficient and secure charging. ISO 15118 utilizes the Combined Charging System (CCS) protocol, which integrates power transfer and communication capabilities into a single connector.
OCPP: Enabling Interoperability in Charging Networks
OCPP, or Open Charge Point Protocol, is a communication protocol that enables communication between charging points (stations) and a central management system (CMS) or network operations center (NOC). Unlike ISO 15118, OCPP doesn't specifically focus on the communication between individual EVs and charging stations. Instead, it provides a standardized way for charging networks to communicate with the back-end systems responsible for managing and controlling the charging infrastructure.
The Key Differences
1. Communication Scope: ISO 15118 primarily focuses on the communication between EVs and charging stations, ensuring seamless interaction for charging processes. On the other hand, OCPP facilitates communication between the charging infrastructure and the central management system, offering advanced functionalities for monitoring, control, and maintenance.
2. Protocol Usage: ISO 15118 implements the CCS protocol, integrating communication and power transfer capabilities into a single connector. In contrast, OCPP serves as a communication standard and doesn't specify the physical connectors or power protocols used for charging.
3. Standards Development: ISO 15118 is an international standard developed and maintained by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). OCPP, on the other hand, was created by the Open Charge Alliance (OCA) – a consortium of companies collaborating to develop open standards for EV charging. OCPP is available as an open-source protocol, encouraging widespread adoption and customization.
While ISO 15118 and OCPP serve different purposes in the EV charging ecosystem, they complement each other to establish an efficient and interoperable system. Implementing both standards ensures seamless communication between EVs, charging stations, and back-end systems, enabling reliable and standardized charging experiences for electric vehicle users worldwide.
Nina She