Information
Definition
Smart charging adjusts charging behaviour based on time, grid conditions, tariffs, user settings or available capacity. It is normally considered alongside charge point management systems, OCPP support, firmware updates, reporting and remote diagnostics.
Why it matters
It is central to UK smart charging regulations and helps reduce peak demand, manage site capacity and support future energy flexibility. For UK users, it affects whether EV charging can be added without unnecessary supply upgrades or nuisance limitation of other site loads.
References
Standards and regulations
Electric Vehicles (Smart Charge Points) Regulations 2021
The Electric Vehicles (Smart Charge Points) Regulations 2021 set Great Britain requirements for private smart charge points, including smart functionality, security, default charging behaviour and randomised delay. They apply to relevant charge points sold for domestic and certain private use cases.
ISO 15118
ISO 15118 is the international vehicle-to-grid communication standard series covering EV-to-charger digital communication, Plug & Charge, smart charging and bidirectional charging functions. In the UK it is increasingly relevant to future-ready public, fleet and V2G-capable charging systems.