Fiscalization obligation: THE trap for CPOs

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Fiscalization obligation: THE trap for CPOs

Electromobility is increasing noticeably in Europe. However, the expansion of the charging infrastructure is also increasing regulatory requirements – particularly in the area of payment processing. One issue that is often overlooked is the Fiscalization.

A blind spot for many CPOs

Many charge point operators (CPOs) do not know that they are affected by fiscal regulations – or what fiscalization even means – or pass the issue on to other players, such as consulting firms or payment service providers. This is about more than just tax formalities: it is about Legally secure, tamper-proof transactionswhich are required by law in many countries and make perfect sense.

Why many CPOs do not (yet) have fiscalization on their radar

There are several reasons why the topic of fiscalization has so far received little attention from many CPOs:

  • IgnoranceThe topic of “fiscalization” itself is often simply unknown in the e-mobility sector.
  • Innovation in the industryElectromobility is a comparatively young field. Many companies are start-ups or lateral entrants from other sectors in which tax issues such as fiscalization do not play a role.
  • Focus on technology and scalingThe priorities are often on available charging capacity, hardware, interoperability and user-friendliness – not on tax details.
  • Lack of self-evidenceFiscalization has long been established in traditional retail. In e-mobility, on the other hand, there is often still a lack of awareness that a charging process is also a tax-relevant transaction – with all the legal consequences.

This combination means that many CPOs are only confronted with the issue when it has already become critical – for example during a tax audit or an expansion abroad.

What does fiscalization mean?

Fiscalization includes the legally regulated collection, storage and – depending on the country – transmission of transaction data. For CPOs, this means Different rules in each country.

The requirements are not uniform even across the EU. Here are a few examples:

  • AustriaRKSV prescribes a signature creation device and QR codes on receipts.
  • FranceOnly certified POS systems with the “NF525” seal are permitted.
  • ItalyTransactions must be transmitted directly to the tax authority via certified devices.

What to do now

Anyone operating or planning charging infrastructure should deal with the fiscal requirements at an early stage:

  • Which countries are affected?
  • What regulations apply there?
  • Which technical solutions are suitable?
  • How can you react flexibly to new requirements?

Fiscalization is not a marginal issue. It is a Central component of a legally compliant and future-proof operating model. Those who ignore the issue risk fines and reputational damage. Those who take it seriously create the basis for scalable, international growth– with clear processes and legal security.

SIMPLY FLEXIBLE

Our solution is particularly flexible and supports both the direct integration of a terminal into a charging station and a decentralized kiosk for operating several charging stations. You can therefore design your charging park entirely according to your wishes. Our Direct Payment works independently of your charging station management system (CPMS) and allows you to integrate various charging station manufacturers into your portfolio, while you only need one payment software.

SIMPLY TRANSPARENT

Our software offers transparent prices and enables quick and easy integration. We think outside the box and therefore support numerous protocols. Direct contracts with acquirers mean there are no hidden costs for CPOs. This enables attractive pricing for the end user. The existing CPMS remains usable, even in the event of future changes. Our solution guarantees even more future security, as it can continue to be used in the event of a backend change.

SIMPLY LEGALLY COMPLIANT

Our payment solutions are legally compliant and take account of national tax laws - including AFIR, of course. Read more about AFIR here Our solutions are already being used successfully for charging parks in various countries. Thanks to our sister company RetailForce, we offer in-house expertise in tax-compliant document creation that has proven itself in practice. Our solution is internationally scalable and enables simple payment with innovative payment methods.

SIMPLY INDIVIDUAL

With more than two decades of experience, we are true payment experts. Our payment solution is already in daily use in many countries. This means that it is not only mature and proven, but also ready to use. During the payment process, your customers can use a QR code to transfer their receipt to their mobile phone.

SIMPLY PROVEN IN PRACTISE

With more than two decades of experience, we are true payment experts. Our payment solution is already in daily use in many countries. This means that it is not only mature and proven, but also ready to use. During the payment process, your customers can use a QR code to transfer their receipt to their mobile phone.