Why OpenOCPP Is a Big Deal — and What It Means for AmpIQ Clients
EV infrastructure should be open, reliable, and future-proof. But under the hood, many charging networks are anything but. A new initiative called OpenOCPP could change that — and here’s why it matters.
First, What Is OCPP?
OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol) is the industry standard language that lets EV chargers talk to charging management systems (like AMPECO, SWTCH, or ChargeLab). It’s what makes “plug-and-play” charging infrastructure possible — in theory.
OCPP was designed to give site hosts the freedom to mix and match charger hardware and backend software without being locked into a single vendor. It’s a great idea — but not always well executed.
The Problem: OCPP ≠ Compatibility
A charger might say it “supports OCPP,” but in practice that support can be inconsistent, incomplete, or even intentionally restrictive. Most OCPP implementations are proprietary, poorly documented, and riddled with inconsistencies that lead to bugs, failed updates, and frustrating support calls.
So while OCPP is the standard, it’s not always a standard you can count on.
Enter OpenOCPP
OpenOCPP, launched by ChargeLab, is the first open-source, pre-certified, and production-ready OCPP firmware. In simple terms: it’s a drop-in software package that manufacturers can use to build chargers that actually work as promised — with clean, robust support for the OCPP standard.
Think of it as the difference between a car that meets EPA fuel standards in a lab, and one that actually gets that mileage on the road.
Why It Matters for AmpIQ Clients
AmpIQ is vendor-neutral. That means our goal is to source the best equipment for each project — not just push one brand. But that only works if the hardware we spec is reliable, interoperable, and open.
OpenOCPP helps solve a core infrastructure problem:
More reliable chargers: Firmware built for real-world use, not just lab compliance.
Cleaner integrations: Easier pairing with CMS platforms like AMPECO, SWTCH, or ChargeLab.
Lower long-term costs: Fewer service calls, better uptime, less vendor lock-in.
Real flexibility: Chargers that can adapt as your needs — or platforms — evolve.
For us, this isn’t just a technical improvement. It’s a major step toward delivering consistent, scalable charging experiences that serve both drivers and site hosts — without compromise.
Looking Ahead
AmpIQ exists to simplify EV infrastructure for businesses, properties, and communities. That means cutting through the noise, picking the right tools, and staying ahead of the curve. OpenOCPP is one of those tools — and we’re excited to start seeing it in the field.
Reliable. Interoperable. Actually open. That’s what your EV charging solution should be. And thanks to OpenOCPP, we’re getting a lot closer.
