Why should charge point operators (CPOs) leverage the power of software for charging infrastructure?

Electric vehicles are a concept that has been around since the mid-1800s. As the popularity of electric cars has grown recently, so has the importance of charge point operators, which are the companies responsible for building, installing, and maintaining EV charging stations.

Building EV charging infrastructure is a forward-looking and profitable business. However, in an era when the number of similar companies springs up like mushrooms after the rain, every CPO needs to ensure reliability and resilience to dynamic change.

So, how can you gain a competitive edge in an industry where service diversification is challenging? Modern, efficient software solutions are essential to managing your charging infrastructure effectively, ensuring seamless operations and staying ahead of the competition.

What are the responsibilities of charge point operators?

Building, installing, and managing an EV charging network is a simplified description of the tasks CPOs handle. In reality, charge point operations cover far more topics.

Finding new locations for EV chargers

Where should your next charging stations be located? CPOs plan and deploy electric vehicle charging infrastructure, strategically selecting optimal locations based on demand and availability. This involves identifying high-demand areas and working with businesses, local authorities, and property owners. For example, Tesla's charging network strategically focuses on well-travelled routes and urban centres, ensuring accessibility for both long-distance travellers and daily commuters. This approach allows Tesla owners to conveniently charge their vehicles during long trips and within city environments.

Installing and maintaining the charging hardware

CPOs select and install charging equipment and associated facilities. They also carry out regular inspections and solve problems to maintain top performance 24/7. Companies like IONITY collaborate with hardware manufacturers to ensure their ultra-fast chargers remain operational under various conditions, thereby reducing downtime and enhancing user trust.

Managing the network

CPOs create and coordinate a network of charging stations that communicates with a central energy management system. This allows real-time station monitoring and optimised energy distribution. For instance, EVgo employs advanced network management tools, such as the Canary Model™, to ensure uninterrupted service even during peak demand periods. This automated, data-driven performance monitoring tool identifies and analyses patterns to support diagnostics, thereby expediting field service response times and enhancing overall network reliability.

Enhancing the charging experience

EV drivers expect a smooth and hassle-free process. To meet these expectations, CPOs implement predictive maintenance strategies to minimise downtime. For example, Shell Recharge offers 24/7 support and real-time station availability updates through its app. The app allows users to locate nearby charge points, view real-time availability, and access the latest tariff information.

Analysing and reporting data

Each charging session provides valuable information, including data on customer volumes, energy consumption, and user behaviour. Based on these insights, decision-makers adjust their strategies to align with user needs. A case in point is ChargePoint, which utilises session data to optimise its pricing strategies and identify underserved areas. Their software platform enables setting prices based on driver type, session length, energy cost, and time of use. Additionally, ChargePoint's data analytics provide insights into station usage and demand patterns, assisting in pinpointing locations that would benefit from additional charging infrastructure.

Implementing security measures

The charging process must be extremely secure. To protect customer data, network operators implement advanced security systems that comply with local regulations. For example, ABB's EVinn TA chargers are equipped with a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) encryption chip and utilise certificate authentication with digital signatures, ensuring secure communication between the charger and connected devices. Additionally, ABB's chargers support the Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) with security extensions, enhancing the overall security posture of the EV charging infrastructure.

How can CPOs stay attractive among an increasing number of competitors?

Your CPO business is just one element of the EV charging industry. CPOs build and install the charging stations, which they may own or hand over to third-party owners. Both CPOs and charge point owners may cooperate with e-mobility service providers (eMSPs), i.e., customer-facing companies. eMSPs handle customer support and provide access cards or mobile apps that enhance customer experience.

Tech innovations for CPO companies

To make your CPO services reliable, you need to think about more than just building and delivering charging stations. Many companies that operate charging stations use software that includes:

• AI-powered tools that predict maintenance needs, identify charger anomalies, and resolve hardware issues remotely. For example, Schneider Electric’s predictive maintenance solutions have reduced operational costs by up to 20% for their clients. By implementing condition-based maintenance strategies, companies can anticipate equipment issues before they lead to failures, thereby minimising downtime and maintenance expenses. This proactive approach not only extends the lifespan of assets but also enhances overall operational efficiency.
• Smart charging algorithms that optimise charging schedules based on grid conditions, energy prices, and drivers’ demand. Let’s take GreenFlux as an example. The company has implemented smart energy management systems that have achieved significant cost savings for their clients. For example, at the Transferium in 's-Hertogenbosch, their smart management ecosystem reduced peak electricity demand by 71%, leading to substantial savings on grid connection investments.
• Dynamic pricing models using AI to adjust prices in response to energy costs, market conditions, and competitors.
• Plug-and-Charge systems that enable charging without authentication, additional devices, or manual payment processes. The Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) has become a standard for interoperability, simplifying the driver’s experience.

Benefits of implementing top-notch software solutions in CPO companies

Software solutions for charge point operators (CPOs) are essential to improving profitability, streamlining operations, and enhancing customer satisfaction. Whether through off-the-shelf systems, customised integrations, or strategic add-ons, the right software can support CPOs in navigating an increasingly competitive market. Here are the key benefits:

Enhanced customer experience

Modern software solutions can be tailored or enhanced to address specific customer needs. For instance, AI-based tools integrated with existing systems can automatically detect faults, reducing station downtimes and improving reliability.

Increased profitability

Software tools, whether ready-made or customised for integration, provide scalable support for growing businesses. Features like dynamic pricing models and energy optimisation algorithms can significantly boost revenue and operational efficiency.

Innovations and automation

From integrating renewable energy sources to automating maintenance workflows, software solutions enable CPOs to stay ahead of industry demands. Many systems offer plugins and APIs for advanced features, such as combining solar power and battery storage with EV charging infrastructure.

Better risk management

Managing a large network of charge points requires robust security measures, and modern software solutions excel in this area. With regular updates, advanced encryption protocols, and compliance features, these tools minimise data security risks.

Get your innovative and reliable software for eMobility with us

At Happy Team, we support ambitious and growing CPOs that want to optimise operations and maximise profits. We know the biggest challenges you may face, so we are there for you.

Contact us to learn how our expertise in software solutions can help streamline your operations, reduce costs, and deliver a superior charging experience to your customers.