Scheidt & Bachmann Partners with ChargePoint

The new Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR), taking effect in April 2024, introduce comprehensive new rules for the electromobility and charging infrastructure sector. These regulations require all public EV charging stations in the EU with speeds over 50 kW to be equipped with payment card readers or contactless payment devices. This directive aims to enhance the accessibility of e-mobility by eliminating the need for subscriptions or contracts, thereby enabling EV drivers to make ad-hoc payments smoothly across Europe.

In alignment with this objective, the European Union aims to accelerate EV adoption by removing obstacles and providing a uniform, user-friendly charging infrastructure throughout the continent. To support this initiative, Scheidt & Bachmann has partnered with ChargePoint to develop an advanced solution that facilitates direct payments for EV charging, regardless of the charging station brand or model.

“Our solution utilizes the roaming functionalities of the OCPI (Open Charge Point Interface) protocol. Within this framework, the payment terminal provider manages direct transactions, while the ChargePoint Cloud solution oversees the charging session logistics. This setup guarantees a standardized and user-friendly charging experience, effectively removing hurdles to EV adoption”, says Charlotte Stelzer, Teamlead Customer Sales & Markets | e-Mobility at Scheidt & Bachmann Energy Retail Solutions GmbH.

“As proponents of open standards, we have carefully engineered our solution to align with the OCPI 2.2.1 specification. Moreover, we have implemented a new module to support connections to the payment terminal provider for both configuration and receipt management, underscoring our dedication to sustainable and customer-focused technologies.”

The new Scheidt & Bachmann SIQMA PowerPay is the first payment terminal to seamlessly align with the industry's cutting-edge open standards while also meeting the new EU regulations. This terminal offers a compliant, ready-to-use solution for Charge Point Operators and streamlines the charging process for EV drivers.

Designed to work with chargers from over 50 certified hardware partners, SIQMA PowerPay offers effortless integration with ChargePoint’s be.ENERGISED platform. This solution enables charge point operators to comply easily and economically with the EU’s AFIR and provides a straightforward payment method for drivers who prefer to use credit or debit cards for charging.

“Scheidt & Bachmann is honored to collaborate with ChargePoint in bringing forth the first solution that fully complies with both AFIR and the latest OCPI standards” says Jörg M. Heilingbrunner, CEO at Scheidt & Bachmann Energy Retail Solutions GmbH. “Through this partnership, we continue to showcase our pioneering spirit and steadfast commitment to advancing the future of individual mobility by delivering exceptional customer experiences and fostering sustainable business models.”