In 2023, USER-CHI promoted the creation of a CEN and CENELEC Workshop on “Innovative solution for user-centric charging infrastructure for electric vehicles, thanks to UNE – Asociación Española de Normalización.

From this initiative, two CEN Workshop Agreements (CWAs) have been published:

• The first CEN Workshop Agreement CWA18090: User-centric charging infrastructure for electric vehicles – Guidelines for operators to implement advanced smart charging and management strategies
  
  The USER-CHI project developed a smart charging tool using the latest OCPI 2.2.1 protocol to enhance EV charging in public areas, focusing on operator-driven innovation and driver preferences. While the new Charging Profile module offers valuable functionality, it is insufficient for optimal smart charging strategies. This document, created by technology providers and electromobility operators from five European cities, recommends a smart charging architecture for operators to adopt the latest OCPI protocols and provides guidance on implementing automated payments and the roaming hub mode to streamline economic flows and expand network offerings. Led by ETRA, the CWA aims to optimise energy costs, utilise renewable energy efficiently, and enable smart grid participation, providing a framework for smart charging services and automating economic compensations among electromobility actors.

• CEN Workshop Agreement CWA18091: User-centric charging infrastructure for electric vehicles – Charging stations of the future – Stations models considering users’ expectations

  The USER-CHI project conducted extensive research in six European countries to understand the charging needs and preferences of EV users. Based on this research, the project identified key factors influencing charging decisions and acceptance barriers. Led by IBV, the resulting CWA outlines four innovative charging station models designed to meet user expectations, focusing on both quantitative aspects (number and density of chargers) and qualitative aspects (user satisfaction, energy efficiency, standardisation, environmental friendliness, diverse charging modes, digital intelligence, safety, and privacy). The document provides guidelines and design features for future charging stations, aiming to enhance the user experience and support successful deployment.

Standardisation is highlighted as a tool for technology transfer in the European Policy on Knowledge Valorisation. Therefore, the development and publication of these two new standards, originally based in USER-CHI outcomes, will provide visibility to the project, generate confidence about these results among the relevant market stakeholders, and make this information available to the related industry, users, and public authorities. These standards not only foster technological advancements but also contribute to adopting new solutions that meet European standardisation and the future of sustainable transportation!