What does a Charge Point Operator (CPO) do?- YoCharge

Before discussing what a CPO does, let me first explain what a CPO means. The full form of CPO is Charge Point Operator. This operator handles the entire process of setting up and running the EV infrastructure for clients.

A CPO is of two types- operational and commercial. The operational CPO is in charge of buying EV charging stations, installing the charging equipment and maintaining the network connection. A commercial CPO decides the pricing for the EV charging infrastructure utilisation and strengthens the bond with eMSP (e-Mobility Service Provider).

Role of a Charge Point Operator:

A part of a CPO includes the management of the EV hardware devices and the eMSP. A CPO and an eMSP can belong to the same company or belong to two separate ones. We’ll discuss that in-depth a little later. However, the primary purpose of a CPO is to connect the changing equipment with eMSPs (e-Mobility Service Providers) to start the charging process of an EV. A CPO also ensures that both the hardware and the software are integrated and that there is no malfunction issue arising from either.

Responsibilities of a CPO:

A CPO is responsible for the following factors:

Buying charging hardware:

A CPO’s primary commitment is to buy charging stations from a supplier. Based on the business model, location and purpose of the use, they decide upon the requirements of the hardware equipment.

If a CPO wishes to install EV charging stations on a highway, he will purchase a DC fast charger to provide a smooth and fast charging experience to long-distance travelling EV drivers. Whereas businesses looking to install charging stations in and around restaurants, shopping malls, workplaces, hotels, and resorts would prefer slow AC chargers.

Installing and operating the charging hardware:

As soon as the necessary charging hardware is bought, CPO will install it. A connection between the charging station and the nearest electricity grid will be established. The CPOs usually sign an agreement with the energy supplier to supply sufficient electricity to their charging stations. They (CPOs) also ensure that the charge points are active at all times and reduce downtime at a reasonable price.

Charging capacity optimisation:

CPOs have the authority to adjust the charging capacity at their charging stations to be able to increase profits and customer satisfaction. Although an operator may face constraints because of the EV charging equipment or the grip connection, they can also determine the progress of the charging process and control charging speeds, charging networks and duration of charging.

Optimisation of smart charging technology helps the CPOs achieve the flexibility to effortlessly control the load management and charging-based adjustment according to the customer and grid constraints.

Decide the charging prices:

CPOs have the authority to decide the charging tariffs. These charging tariffs are decided based on the following parameters:

• Amount to be paid by the EV driver to access the charging station

• Price per unit of electricity consumed (e.g., Rs10/kWh)

• Price based on duration (e.g., Rs 10/minute)

Usually, the CPOs use the first two parameters. They share these prices with the eMSPs or their EV CMS who then share the tariffs with the EV drivers.

Coordinating with eMSPs:

To generate more revenues and a customer base, the CPOs may connect with the eMSPs. This connection helps to access their network while roaming. The Charge Point Operators can communicate with the eMSP directly through peer-to-peer connections or roaming service providers and hubs to authenticate and access multiple eMSPs through a single contract.

In some cases, the CPOs prefer to develop and use their eMSP products and services in the form of charge cards or apps for EV drivers.

What does our YoCharge CPO platform offer?

The team of developers from YoCharge have studied the EV charging market and developed a unique CPO platform. This platform has been designed to be versatile, keeping in mind the different business sectors that can utilize our EV charging solutions. The benefit of installing our EV charging stations is that the processes are prompt and timely.

Summing up:

CPO is a profitable business opportunity that will reap more significant rewards in the years to come. The YoCharge services, especially our White Label CMS, are being noticed for their seamless functions and features. The option to customize the CPO platforms and the White Label CMS as per your choices acts like the cherry on top. Our experts are in the progress of developing and launching attractive features and functions for a smoother experience.

YoCharge is leading EV Charging Stations in India. EV Charging Platform provides DC & AC charging station for electric vehicles. Inquire Now!