As Singapore’s electric vehicle (EV) market matures, drivers expect a charging experience that matches the convenience and reliability of traditional refueling. Yet, the current landscape is fragmented, with multiple charging networks, proprietary apps, and inconsistent access. Roaming and interoperability where drivers can use any public charging station, regardless of operator, with a single app or payment method, are key to unlocking a truly seamless EV journey.
📌 TL;DR
EV roaming and interoperability are critical for the growth of sustainable transport. They remove friction for users, increase utilisation for charge point operators (CPOs), and build an integrated infrastructure ecosystem that benefits everyone, from fleet owners to retail landlords.
The Problem with Fragmented Charging
Today’s EV charging landscape is dotted with closed-loop networks. Each CPO may offer its own app, pricing structure, and user experience. For drivers, this means:
- Limited access to chargers outside their network
- Complicated onboarding processes for each provider
- Confusing billing and payment systems
- Inconsistent availability and reliability data
For property owners and CPOs, fragmentation leads to underutilisation of infrastructure and limited user adoption.
What Is Roaming?
Roaming allows EV drivers to use charging stations operated by different networks through a single account or app similar to how mobile phone roaming works. This is enabled through backend integrations and standards like Open Charge Point Interface (OCPI), allowing networks to talk to each other securely and reliably.
What Is Interoperability?
Interoperability ensures that different hardware and software components, chargers, energy management systems, billing platforms, and mobile apps work together seamlessly. This often relies on protocols like:
- OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol) for communication between chargers and backend systems
- ISO 15118 for Plug & Charge and smart charging functions
- OCPI for roaming and data exchange
Roaming doesn't happen by magic. It relies on interoperability, which is the ability of different charging networks and software systems to communicate and exchange information effectively. Think of it as a universal translator for EV charging. Without interoperability, each charging network would be an isolated island, leading to a frustrating experience for drivers and limiting the growth of the overall EV ecosystem.
This exchange of information involves critical data points:
- Real-time Availability: Is a charger at your mall currently free, in use, or out of order?
- Pricing Information: What are the tariffs for charging at your stations?
- Session Management: Can the driver's app remotely start or stop a session, and can your system track its progress?
- Billing Data: How can the energy consumed be accurately billed back to the driver?
While mall operators don't need to be experts in these protocols, it's crucial that their chosen Charging Station Management System (CSMS) like Eigen Digital's platform, is fully compliant.
Why This Matters for Property Owners and CPOs
1. Increased Visibility and Footfall
Joining a roaming hub expands your reach. Drivers from other networks can now find and use your chargers, driving more traffic to your premises.
2. Higher Utilisation Rates
Underutilised charging stations become revenue-generating assets as access broadens to more EV users.
3. Improved Customer Experience
A seamless charging experience builds loyalty, especially when drivers don’t need to switch apps or deal with confusing payment options.
4. Accelerated Network Growth
Interoperable infrastructure is easier to scale across new locations, partners, and markets essential for rapid urban EV deployment.
Platforms like Eigen Digital are designed to bridge the gap between charge point operators, fleet managers, and property owners. By facilitating roaming agreements, offering interoperable management systems, and standardising data exchange, we help:
- Streamline operations
- Provide real-time insights and control
- Build a more inclusive EV charging ecosystem
Roaming partnerships with major CPOs allows end users to access more stations and vice versa, ensuring a smooth, unified experience.
As Southeast Asia ramps up its electrification goals, an integrated, interoperable charging network will be essential. Roaming and interoperability aren't just technical upgrades, they are foundational to scaling EV infrastructure in a way that is inclusive, efficient, and future-ready.
EV drivers want freedom. Operators want utilisation. The industry needs growth. Roaming and interoperability are the connective tissue that enable all three. Investing in these capabilities today isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s a strategic imperative.
