EV Roaming for CPOs

EV roaming is reshaping the electric vehicle charging landscape, offering Charge Point Operators (CPOs) powerful ways to increase charger usage, reach more drivers, and boost revenue.

This article explains how EV roaming works for CPOs, its business benefits, and how to get started.

📌 TL;DR

• EV roaming lets CPOs open their charging stations to drivers from other networks.

• Joining roaming networks increases charger utilization and revenue.

• Roaming makes your stations visible in multiple apps, attracting more drivers.

• Open networks are more attractive to fleets and traveling EV owners.

• Getting started means choosing a roaming platform, supporting open protocols, and setting clear pricing.

Charging network

How Does EV Roaming Work for CPOs?

EV roaming allows drivers to use charging stations outside their home network with just one app or account. For CPOs, this means your chargers become accessible to a much wider pool of EV drivers, including those using different eMobility Service Providers (EMSPs). Roaming is enabled by interoperability standards such as OCPI and OCHP that let different networks communicate and share charging data seamlessly.

Business Benefits for CPOs

In addition to providing ease and convenience to the end-user, there are also benefits to the EV charging service providers. Similar to telecom roaming, EV roaming creates opportunities for:

✅ Increased Charger Utilization:

More drivers can find and use your chargers, reducing idle time and maximizing your investment.

✅ Expanded Customer Reach:

Joining roaming hubs lists your stations in multiple apps, attracting both local and traveling EV owners.

✅ Higher Revenue:

More users mean more charging sessions and increased income, especially as EV adoption accelerates.

✅Competitive Advantage:

Participating in roaming networks shows your openness and customer focus, helping you stand out from closed networks.

✅Fleet Partnerships:

Roaming is especially valued by fleet operators, making your network more attractive for business partnerships.

How to Join Roaming Networks

1. Choose a Roaming Platform: Partner with established roaming hubs (like Eigen's) to connect your chargers to a wider network.

2. Implement Open Standards: Ensure your charging infrastructure supports protocols like OCPI or OCHP for smooth data exchange.

3. Set Pricing and Policies: Decide how you’ll price roaming sessions. Some CPOs add a margin for out-of-network users, but transparent pricing is increasingly expected.

4. Promote Your Network: Once connected, highlight your roaming capabilities to attract both individual drivers and fleet operators.

Why Roaming Matters Now

As EV sales surge, drivers expect charging to be as simple and convenient as fueling a petrol car. Roaming removes barriers, reduces range anxiety, and encourages more drivers to choose electric. For CPOs, embracing roaming is not just about technology, it’s about future-proofing your business and supporting the global shift to sustainable transport.

Unlocking Growth and Maximizing Utilization

Ready to increase your charger utilization and reach new customers? Start your roaming journey with Eigen Digital. 📨 Contact us today to learn how we can help you connect, grow, and lead in the evolving EV charging market.