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A Charge Point Operator (CPO) is a company or entity responsible for the installation, operation, maintenance, and management of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. CPOs ensure that EV users can access functional, safe, and reliable charging infrastructure. They play a critical role in the EV ecosystem by bridging the gap between infrastructure development and end-user experience.

Core Responsibilities

Infrastructure Deployment: Setting up EV chargers in public, private, or semi-public locations.

Operations & Monitoring: Ensuring charger availability, uptime, and performance using Remote Monitoring Systems (RMS).

Maintenance & Servicing: Handling repairs, updates, and preventive maintenance to maximize charger uptime.

Billing & Payments: Managing user authentication, pricing models (per unit, time-based), and secure payments.

Data Management: Monitoring usage patterns, energy consumption, and reporting.

Business Models

Own & Operate: The CPO invests in and retains ownership of the charging infrastructure.

Operate on Behalf: Operates chargers owned by third parties such as governments, malls, or fleet companies.

Franchise & Partnerships: Partnering with landowners or service providers to expand network coverage.

Key Technologies Used

OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol): Enables interoperability between chargers and back-end systems.

CMS (Charge Management System): Software to manage assets, monitor performance, and run analytics.

Smart Charging & Load Management: Optimize grid usage and energy distribution.

Mobile Apps/Web Portals: For users to locate, reserve, and pay for charging sessions

Global & Indian Market Players

Global: ChargePoint, EVBox, Ionity, Shell Recharge

India: Tata Power EZ Charge, Statiq, Magenta, Fortum, Jio-BP