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Charging Modes

By default, MyPlugStream is powered by the AmpNexus Charge Point Management Platform (CSMS).
Within the AmpNexus Portal (MyPlugStream), you can select from several charging modes that give you full control and flexibility over when and how your charge point delivers energy.

This guide explains each mode and the scenarios where it is most useful.

Regulation Compliance

  • Description: Runs the charge point in line with UK Smart Charging regulations (The Electric Vehicles (Smart Charge Points) Regulations 2021).
  • Key behaviours in this mode:
  • Default charging schedules: Charging outside of peak hours (e.g. avoiding 8am–11am and 4pm–10pm).
  • Randomised start delays: A short random delay (up to 10 minutes) may be applied when charging begins, to avoid all chargers starting at the same time.
  • Secure communications: The charge point must authenticate with the AmpNexus Portal before delivering energy.
  • Best for: Installations that want to follow recommended regulatory charging patterns without creating a custom schedule.
  • Notes: This mode is optional. If you prefer, you can use Schedule mode to define your own charging times.

Plug & Charge (Start Immediately)

  • Description: Charging starts automatically as soon as a vehicle is plugged in. The charge point still authenticates with the AmpNexus Portal before delivering energy, but this happens seamlessly in the background.
  • Best for: Home or workplace sites where quick and automatic charging is preferred.
  • Notes: Convenient and simple, while still ensuring every session is authorised in the portal.

Schedule

  • Description: Charging begins and ends according to a schedule set in the AmpNexus Portal.
  • Best for: Taking advantage of off-peak tariffs or ensuring charging fits your energy plan.
  • Example: Start charging at 23:00 and finish at 07:00 to benefit from cheaper night-time rates.
  • Notes: Use this mode if you want a custom schedule instead of the default regulatory one.

Smart Charging (Cost-Optimized)

  • Description: Adjusts charging automatically to reduce costs, balance load, or respond to grid signals.
  • Best for: Fleet sites, workplaces, or homes with dynamic tariffs.
  • Notes: May require integration with an energy supplier or load management system.

User Controlled (Start/Stop Manually)

  • Description: Charging is started and stopped manually via the AmpNexus Portal or mobile app.
  • Best for: Testing, troubleshooting, or environments where operators want full control.
  • Notes: Charging will not begin automatically when the vehicle is plugged in.

Choosing the Right Mode

Mode Automation Level Control Type Typical Use Case
Regulation Compliance High Regulatory Defaults Simple compliance charging
Plug & Charge High Auto-authenticated Home & workplace charging
Schedule High Time-based Off-peak savings
Smart Charging High Dynamic/Smart Cost-optimized/fleet sites
User Controlled Low Manual Testing or restricted sites