What are charger firmware and OTA updates?
Charger firmware is the software operating inside the charging equipment; over-the-air, or OTA, updating means delivering changes remotely through a network connection [S3]. For relevant private chargers, Schedule 1 requires secure software updating and checks on update authenticity and integrity [S1]. Agree who manages releases, notifications and service recovery before signing your maintenance contract. Checked October 2026.
What do charger firmware and OTA mean?
Charger firmware is the software running inside the charging equipment; an over-the-air (OTA) update delivers replacement software remotely through a communications connection [S3]. It is separate from updating the driver’s phone app.
Why it matters for your site: firmware changes can affect charging operation and security. The Open Charge Alliance (OCA) describes firmware updates as a route for making critical changes to a charging station [S3]. Ask for a change record, rather than accepting an unexplained version number.
Why do chargers receive updates?
Updates can address security weaknesses or change device behaviour. For relevant chargers, the private smart charger regulations require periodic checks for available security updates and default notifications to the owner [S1]. Ask the maintenance team to distinguish a security release from a feature change and identify any expected interruption.
The security requirements in Schedule 1 took effect on 30 December 2022. The regime covers relevant private domestic and workplace chargers sold in Great Britain; it excludes public and rapid chargers [S2]. Read the smart charge point regulations guide for scope. Check legal interpretation with your solicitor.
Who should control updates at your business?
Put responsibility for release approval, scheduling and completion checks in the operating contract. Ask who receives notifications and who can authorise an urgent update. OCA notes that firmware changes can require the manufacturer’s involvement, while configuration changes need separate consideration [S3].
Request an agreed recovery procedure and a post-update charging check. Record the installed version, test result and any altered settings. Use the charger cyber security guide for the wider account and network arrangements.
Next step
Include update responsibilities in your site check. Keep operating costs in your charging cost calculation, then get matched with an installer that covers your area.
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Common questions
Does OTA mean using mobile data only?
No. Remote firmware delivery uses a communications connection; the OCA guide describes secure file-transfer channels. Ask which connection your equipment uses and who pays for it [S3].
Must an update be checked before installation?
For relevant chargers, Schedule 1 requires validation of the software's origin and contents before applying it. Request the manufacturer's explanation of that process [S1].
Do the private smart charger regulations cover public rapid chargers?
No. GOV.UK excludes public and rapid charge points from this regime. Confirm the equipment's scope rather than assuming every charger at a business falls within it [S2].
Does the law specify unlimited software support?
Schedule 1 requires the sale information to specify the period, if any, for which updates will be provided. Obtain that statement and an end-of-support plan [S1].
Is an OCPP label enough to establish secure updates?
No. Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) is the charger-management communications protocol. OCA's guide requires firmware authenticity checks and describes secure transfer measures; request configuration evidence [S3].
Ask about your site
Sources
- Electric Vehicles (Smart Charge Points) Regulations 2021, UK legislation,Last checked 19 October 2026
- Regulations - electric vehicle smart charge points, Office for Product Safety and Standards,Last checked 19 October 2026
- OCPP Security Operations Guide, Open Charge Alliance,Last checked 19 October 2026