What is Charge Point Management Software (CPMS)?

In a previous article, we suggest what software tools successful EV Charge Point Operators use to run their businesses effectively. In this article we dive into one of those specialist tools CPMS - or Charge Point Management Software.

What is CPMS?

A Charge Point Management Software (CPMS) is a software platform that manages, monitors, and controls electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.

CPMS provides the tools and functionalities for operators, businesses, and service providers to operate networks of EV chargers efficiently. These platforms are a crucial tool for anyone operating EV charging stations, enabling efficient, scalable, and sustainable management of charging infrastructure - especially large-scale implementations.

What are the important features?

It's still a young software category, so each platform is slightly different, but based on our research, the key features and components of a CPMS are:

1. Real-Time Monitoring and Control: CPMS allows operators to monitor the status of each charging point in real-time, including whether a station is active, idle, or in use, as well as track energy consumption, charging speed, and station health.
2. Remote Management: CPMS enables operators to manage and control the chargers remotely, such as rebooting stations, applying software updates, or troubleshooting technical issues.
3. User Management: The platform often includes tools for managing user accounts and providing authentication for EV drivers, allowing them to access the charging network through mobile apps or RFID cards.
4. Billing and Payment Integration: Many CPMS platforms support payment processing, allowing operators to charge users based on energy consumption or time spent charging. The system may also generate invoices and manage subscriptions for frequent users.
5. Energy Management: Advanced CPMS systems can help optimize energy use by managing load balancing across multiple charging stations and integrating with renewable energy sources or storage systems.
6. Analytics and Reporting: CPMS often includes reporting tools that provide insights into charger usage, energy consumption, and operational efficiency. Operators can analyze this data to optimize performance and profitability.
7. Integration with Other Systems: The software typically integrates with various third-party systems, such as customer relationship management (CRM) software, grid management systems, or fleet management tools.

Who are some example vendors?

Having researched some key features, we looked at some example vendors and the capabilities they share; this is solely based on their websites and desktop research from other sources; we have not spoken to customers yet.

1. Driivz: Driivz provides a cloud-based platform designed for large-scale operations. It focuses on scalability and reliability, supporting over 1,200 OCPP-compliant charger models. Key features include real-time network monitoring, smart energy management to optimize power use, and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) capabilities. It also emphasizes customer satisfaction with self-service tools for users and comprehensive network management for operators​Driivz.
2. AMPECO: AMPECO offers a versatile, white-label solution tailored for Charge Point Operators (CPOs) and electric mobility service providers (eMSPs). They focus on energy management, including load balancing and demand response, and offer robust billing and payment options, roaming integrations, and user management. The platform is highly customizable with APIs for building tailored solutions and integrating with existing systems like CRM and ERP​AMPECO.
3. Tridens: Tridens EV Charge focuses on flexibility and AI-driven pricing, helping businesses create tailored offers for various business models (prepaid, postpaid, subscription). It also provides detailed reporting, operational management through a web-based dashboard, and seamless integration with payment systems and CRMs. Tridens highlights customer experience with user-friendly mobile apps for managing accounts and real-time charger availability​Tridens.
4. Versinetic: Versinetic specializes in custom solutions for smart charging infrastructure. Their platform includes unique hardware and software "Charging Blox," which accelerate development and reduce costs. The company also offers consultancy services and local load balancing for efficient power management. Versinetic supports OCPP protocols and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) integration, with a focus on future-proof, standards-compliant solutions​Versinetic.
5. Evnity: Evnity targets startups and growing businesses, providing user-friendly, customizable software for managing charging networks. Their platform supports fleet integration, CRM systems, and large-scale enterprise charging management. Evnity’s key benefit is its focus on easy scalability, OCPP compliance, and efficient charger management for seamless user experiences​EV Charging Solutions.

In Summary

In summary, CPMS is a crucial tool for anyone operating EV charging stations, enabling efficient, scalable, and sustainable management of charging infrastructure. Hopefully, this gives you an overview of what you should expect and where to start.