Closed networks are named as such because they use a priority protocol (closed protocol) to communicate between the charge point and their management system. This priority protocol will be unique to each company and the IP is owned by the company.

The easiest comparison is “Apple” products. Apple use their own protocol to communicate between their devices and their management platform/systems.

This gives the companies full control over the hardware and the software and as we have seen from companies like Apple has enabled them to create a unique user experience.

However, there are drawbacks to such closed network experiences. Clenergy EV believe that EV charging should be fair, open and accessible to all, which is why we advocate for open charging networks.