Interoperability in EV charging is essential for consolidating an open, competitive, and sustainable electric mobility market in Spain.
Legal framework: Royal Decree 184/2022
Royal Decree 184/2022 of 8 March governs the provision of electric vehicle charging services in Spain, establishing a regulatory framework focused on efficiency, transparency, and accessibility for both users and operators.
Within this framework, interoperability agreements—also referred to as roaming agreements—enable users to access multiple charging networks through a single service provider, supporting a fully integrated e-mobility ecosystem.
What is interoperability in EV charging?
Interoperability allows a user registered with a Mobility Service Provider (MSP) or directly with a Charging Point Operator (CPO) to access charging infrastructure operated by another CPO without additional registrations.
This connectivity is possible through compatible authentication systems, such as mobile applications or digital credentials, ensuring a seamless and cross-border charging experience across Spain and the EU.
OCPI Control: the technical interoperability standard
The Open Charge Point Interface (OCPI) protocol has become the reference technical standard for interoperable EV charging management.
OCPI enables real-time data exchange between MSPs and CPOs regarding charger availability, pricing, session status, and transactions, ensuring secure and standardised communication. It also allows multiple charging networks to be integrated into a single user-facing platform.
Operators’ obligations and responsibilities
Royal Decree 184/2022 promotes transparency, competition, and both technical and contractual interoperability.
Charging service operators must, in particular:
- Ensure interoperability through agreements with other operators
- Provide transparent information on pricing, terms of use, and charger availability
- Implement secure data exchange systems for billing and incident management
- Protect users’ personal data in compliance with the GDPR
OCPI-based solutions significantly facilitate regulatory compliance by offering a verifiable and standardised technological framework.
Contractual and legal aspects of interoperability agreements
Interoperability agreements are cooperation contracts that are subject to general contract law and sector-specific regulation. They typically define:
- Shared charging infrastructure
- Economic terms and incident resolution procedures
- Service quality and continuity guarantees
- Adaptation mechanisms to regulatory or technological changes
- Revenue settlement mechanisms
- Management of technical deviations or failures
Proper drafting is essential to prevent disputes, ensure accurate billing, and enhance user trust.
Strategic impact and benefits of interoperability
Beyond operational efficiency, interoperability agreements play a strategic role in Spain’s electric mobility development by:
- Encouraging infrastructure investment
- Optimising operational management and reducing costs
- Increasing competition for the benefit of end users
- Improving accessibility and convenience for EV drivers
Ultimately, interoperability strengthens system cohesion and accelerates the transition towards clean and intelligent transport.
Frequently Asked Questions
They are agreements allowing EV users to access multiple charging networks through a single provider.
Royal Decree 184/2022 strongly promotes them as a means to ensure competition and user accessibility.
OCPI is a standard protocol enabling secure and real-time communication between charging operators and service providers.
Charging Point Operators and Mobility Service Providers operating in Spain.
Yes, interoperability supports EU-wide roaming and cross-border EV charging.
Does your company need legal support to negotiate or review EV charging interoperability agreements under Royal Decree 184/2022?
