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First Microgrid Tour was Huge Success

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 00:11:52 GMT

October 8th was a big day for our Microgrid

There’s a special kind of magic that happens when people gather around real, working technology and ask big questions together. Our recent Energy IoT Microgrid Tour at Port Labs was one of those nights.

A Warm Welcome

The evening began with a relaxed gathering as music played, chairs were set, and Kyle worked his behind-the-scenes magic — setting up demos, scanning QR codes, and making sure everything ran smoothly. I walked the room, shaking hands, meeting new faces, and feeling the buzz of curiosity.

Sharing Stories and Showing the Tech

Kyle kicked things off with a lively introduction, complete with a crowd cheer (yes, that happened!). I shared slides on community microgrids from Elaine Baker, a volunteer with Energy IoT Open Source and Own Our Power, then I gave a high-level overview of the Energy IOT Open Source vision, and a live SunSpec demo that worked flawlessly thanks to some smart prep.

Then Akash took the mic to share fresh insights from his trip to Cairo, showing how this technology is making a real difference on the ground. His stories reminded everyone that microgrids aren’t abstract concepts — they’re changing lives right now.

Sunlight, Small Groups, and Good Conversations

After the presentations, we all moved outside to the microgrid itself. The weather was perfect — the late afternoon sun was warm, and small groups formed naturally. People asked thoughtful questions, dove into discussions, and explored the gizmo setup together. Even 20 minutes after the official end, about ten people were still there, talking and touring the lab.

A Community in Motion

In total, over 50 people signed up for the event, and more than 20 came in person. Many found us through Climatebase , a climate-tech career network. Several participants signed up for upcoming paid workshops, some expressed interest in mentoring, and others simply wanted to keep learning. This mix of experience levels — from technical experts to the newly curious — made for rich conversations.

Attendees shared with me that they learned so much in general about why Community Microgrids are different than other types of Microgrids, why Open Source is so critical, and they loved all the networking.

What’s Next

We’re now following up with attendees to match mentors, fill workshop slots, and continue building this open-source energy community. A special shoutout to Akash, Kyle, Arila, and the volunteers who made this event flow so smoothly.

This tour wasn’t just about showcasing a $50K microgrid. It was about igniting a movement — one that blends technology, community, and real-world impact.

If you were there, thank you for making it such a beautiful night. If you missed it, don’t worry — there will be more tours and workshops to come. Check out the list here: https://www.eiot.energy/events

My Experience with the LFX Mentorship at LF Energy - Hyphae APIS

Sun, 05 Oct 2025 18:29:49 GMT

During my LFX Mentorship on LF Energy managed by Energy IoT Open SourceLF Energy, I had the opportunity to contribute to the Hyphae APIS (Autonomous Power Interchange System) open source project.

This experience was both technically enriching and personally rewarding, as it gave me exposure to cutting-edge work in microgrid technologies, which I believe can be game-changing in shaping the future of sustainable and resilient energy systems.

A major highlight of my mentorship was learning and applying OpenSSF best practices, which helped me understand the importance of secure and reliable open-source development. By collaborating with contributors and mentors across the globe, I gained valuable insights into global perspectives on technology and teamwork.

One specific challenge I faced during my LFX Mentorship was working with Vert.x-based reactive applications, which were completely new to me. I had never previously worked on reactive programming or Vert.x, so understanding the event-driven architecture, asynchronous flows, and how different components interacted in the Hyphae APIS system required a steep learning curve. To overcome this, I spent time studying the framework, reviewing existing code, and experimenting with small prototypes to grasp the concepts. Gradually, I was able to contribute effectively.

The mentorship also allowed me to strengthen my existing technical skills while exploring new technologies. I had the chance to review and learn from the code developed by researchers at Sony CSL, which was an incredible learning experience. Contributing directly to the project not only deepened my technical understanding but also gave me a sense of ownership and responsibility in contributing to a larger open-source ecosystem.

Overall, this mentorship has been a transformative experience. It enhanced my knowledge of microgrids, improved my open-source development practices, and gave me the confidence to contribute meaningfully to global open-source projects. I look forward to continuing my journey in building impactful solutions for the energy sector and beyond.

Why Guarding Basic Infrastructure Is Hurting the Clean Energy Revolution

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 17:25:55 GMT

Imagine if every car manufacturer built their own kind of wheel—and refused to share it. You’d have a traffic jam of innovation. That’s what’s happening in today’s energy sector.

Liam, a product manager at Sol-Ark and co-sponsor of Energy IoT Open Source (EIOT) , puts it bluntly: “Everyone’s guarding their ‘IP,’ but they’re really guarding the 80 to 90 percent of stuff everyone has to build anyway.”

We’re talking about basic building blocks—data protocols, metering tools, hardware-software communication. Instead of collaborating, companies hoard them like trade secrets, slowing progress when we need acceleration.

�� Proving the Model at SF Climate Week

Liam rolled up his sleeves at the Open Source Energy Hackathon during SF Climate Week (April 2025), teaming up with students and developers using open hardware kits from NESL.energy and IEEE Smart Village. Together, they rapidly prototyped solutions that could be field-deployed—not next year, but now .

The takeaway? When industry pros, volunteers, and students work on open tools side by side, real innovation happens—fast.

�� The Cost of Proprietary Lock-In

When every device speaks a different language, integration becomes a nightmare. Engineers burn months getting systems to “talk.” Companies reinvent the same tools instead of collaborating.

It’s like if every restaurant invented its own kind of fork.

This might fly in legacy industries, but in a climate crisis? It’s an avoidable bottleneck we can’t afford.

�� Open Infrastructure Is the Fix

That’s where Liam’s partnership with EIOT makes a difference.

At Sol-Ark, Liam’s team builds next-gen hybrid inverters. Instead of rebuilding the same backend plumbing, they leverage EIOT’s open tools and standardized infrastructure to plug and play—faster.

EIOT is building the foundations so others can focus on innovation, not integration.

�� Innovate Where It Matters

Sure, companies need to protect their competitive edge—but let’s draw the line more wisely. Share the basics. Compete on excellence.

If we all have to build the same road before we can even start driving, none of us are going anywhere fast.

⚡ The Future Is Open

The clean energy revolution isn’t a solo project—it’s a networked movement. And movements move faster when the foundations are open, shareable, and trusted.

Let’s stop hoarding the tools we all need. Let’s build the infrastructure— together.

�� See It for Yourself

Join us for a tour of our Microgrid Open Source Lab at Port Labs in Oakland, CA and experience the future in action.

�� Upcoming Tour Dates
�� Tours run from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM

Wednesday, October 8 — Tickets
Wednesday, November 5 — Tickets
Wednesday, December 3 — Tickets

�� Help keep this movement alive.
Support our mission at

zeffy.com/donation-form/open-source-lab-portlabs-oakland

#CleanEnergy #OpenSourceInfrastructure #ClimateTech #EIOT #IoTStandards

From Hackathon to Global Impact: How a 24-Hour Build at Port Labs Could Transform Energy Access

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 17:37:01 GMT

What if you could help solve the global energy crisis in just 24 hours—with open-source hardware and a soldering iron?

When Akash Borde walked into a warehouse during San Francisco Climate Week, he wasn’t expecting to help solve one of humanity’s biggest problems in just 24 hours.

“I’ve wanted to work in sustainable energy since high school,” he said. “Climate change isn’t just one issue—it’s the problem that underlies all others.”

That passion led him to the Open Source Energy Hackathon at Port Labs , a hands-on event hosted by Energy IoT Open Source. Unlike typical panels or policy talks, this hackathon was built for makers. No fluff. Just soldering irons, code, and a global mission: make energy systems people can actually use—anywhere, anytime.

The Problem: You Bought the Hardware, But Can You Use It?

Arila, one of the organizers, framed the challenge clearly: "If someone pays for solar hardware, they should be able to use it— even if the company that made it goes out of business or if the software license expires. ”

That simple idea lit a fire in the room. Akash and a small team got to work.

By the end of the weekend, they had built a working prototype to support open-source energy metering —the kind that could one day be deployed across communities with limited infrastructure, from rural villages to disaster zones.

Why This Hackathon Was Different

“There are very few hardware hackathons where you actually accomplish something,” Akash said. “Usually it’s about meeting sponsors. But Arila set this up so we had just enough gear to get started, and it was real. We built something that will actually be used in the field.”

Now, with access to Port Labs’ maker space, Akash is continuing the work—helping Energy IoT Open Source build a platform that supports energy equity, resilience, and global reach.

�� Ready to Join the Movement?

Port Labs is more than a lab. It’s a launchpad. If you're an engineer, entrepreneur, tinkerer, or just someone who believes energy should be a basic right, come tour the lab. Join a hackathon. Volunteer. Contribute code. Help electrify the world—open-source style.

We have a set of Tours available at lu.ma the first of which is on August 13th.

Donate now to keep up the momentum.

#ClimateTech #OpenSourceEnergy #Microgrids #PortLabs #SustainableInnovation #SFClimateWeek

Astera Institute awards $100K grant to Energy IoT Open Source

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 19:22:31 GMT

Astera Institute awards $100K grant to Energy IoT Open Source to accelerate microgrid-based approach to increasing resilient, decentralized energy access.

The grant supports Energy IoT’s work to expand open-source microgrid solutions, starting with an open-source energy lab at Port Labs in Oakland.

OAKLAND, Calif., July 15, 2025 — Energy IoT Open Source, a nonprofit organization advancing open-source microgrid technologies, is proud to announce a $100,000 grant from Astera Institute. This award will help expand Energy IoT’s efforts to build equitable, resilient energy systems for communities around the world.

“We’re excited to support Energy IoT Open Source’s work to democratize access to microgrids,” said Eli Dourado, Head of Strategic Investments at Astera Institute. “Their hard work to build a decentralized, open-source platform can change lives and deliver real-world impact.”

Millions of people still lack access to reliable electricity. At the same time, the energy transition demands an estimated 1.6 to 2 million new electricians over the next two decades. Energy IoT is addressing both challenges by:

Developing open-source microgrid hardware and software
Launching hands-on, community-based labs for training and experimentation
Equipping the next generation of engineers and electricians

The Astera grant secures Energy IoT’s Open Source Energy Lab at Port Labs in Oakland for one year, providing space for workshops, prototyping, and mentorship. The lab builds on the momentum of the SF Climate Hackathon and aims to become a replicable model for global deployment.

Join Us: Power the Future

Donate to sustain Port Labs: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/open-source-lab-portlabs-oakland
Sponsor a Portable Microgrid Lab in Africa: https://www.zeffy.com/donation-form/portable-microgrid-labs
Mentor the next generation through the Linux Foundation: https://www.eiot.energy/internships-and-re-internships
Explore open roles: https://www.eiot.energy/internships-and-re-internships

About Astera Institute
Astera Institute is a foundation that empowers visionary, high-leverage science and technology projects with the capacity to create transformative progress for human civilization. Learn more at astera.org .

About Energy IoT Open Source
Energy IoT Open Source is a nonprofit building open-source microgrids for all. We collaborate with a global community to accelerate access to affordable, decentralized energy solutions. Learn more at eiot.energy .

A village here, a village there - let the sun shine in!

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 12:32:10 GMT

A journey of global collaboration - part II

It all started with a conversation. Following the presentation of “How open source can enable your next microgrid community project?” by Arila Barnes , the founder of Energy IoT Open Source , at the LF Energy Summit 2024 in Brussels . Our discussion quickly turned to the possibilities of open-source solutions for microgrids in Africa. Arila’s passion for democratizing energy through technology was contagious, and I knew that this was the beginning of something bigger than just an exchange of ideas.

As an Ambassador of the Linux Foundation Energy , my goal has always been to bridge the gap between open-source energy technologies and real-world implementation. Arila and I shared a vision: enabling African communities to harness clean, sustainable energy while fostering local innovation. This conversation led to what is now a growing movement in Cameroon, one that involves local businesses, students, and policy experts working together to bring decentralized energy solutions to off-grid communities.

Building Synergies for a Sustainable Future

The journey toward energy equity requires more than just technical solutions—it necessitates collaboration between key players across academia, industry, and open-source communities. When I first reached out to Energy IoT Open Source , I saw a unique opportunity to bring together diverse stakeholders to develop and implement microgrid solutions in Africa.

In Cameroon, the need for sustainable energy solutions is critical, and the key to making this work was forming a strong network of local and international contributors. That is how I fostered collaboration between Solkamtech , represented by Serge Bukam , and Renewable Energy Innovators (REI) Cameroun , represented by Jude Numfor . These two companies have complementary expertise: Solkamtech specializes in deploying solar energy solutions, while REI focuses on energy innovation and sustainable electrification. By working with these two entities, we created a framework where their expertise could be leveraged for the benefit of rural communities.

Introducing Local Leaders Behind the Initiative

Jude Numfor is a Cameroonian entrepreneur dedicated to electrifying rural communities in Africa. He is the Founder and CEO of Renewable Energy Innovators Cameroon (REIc) , a social enterprise focused on providing clean and reliable energy to off-grid areas. Under his leadership, REIc has implemented significant projects, including expanding an 11 kW microgrid to 30 kW in the Sabongari community, improving electricity access for approximately 7,000 people.

In addition to his role at REIc, Jude Numfor serves as a Board Member of the Africa Minigrid Developers Association (AMDA) , working with industry leaders to advance minigrid development in Africa. He is also a Governing Board Member of IEEE Smart Village , an initiative that integrates sustainable electricity solutions, education, and entrepreneurship to empower off-grid communities. Through his work at REIc and contributions to organizations such as AMDA and IEEE Smart Village, Jude Numfor is committed to sustainable development and improving living conditions in African rural communities.

Serge Bukam is a Cameroonian entrepreneur and expert in solar energy solutions. He is the Founder of Solkamtech SARL , a leading solar energy consultancy in Cameroon. After completing his environmental engineering studies at HTW Berlin, Germany , he returned to Cameroon with the support of the German government’s ZIM programme to build the country's first solar minigrid.

Under his leadership, Solkamtech has expanded rapidly and is now recognized as one of the top solar energy consulting firms in the country, with an extensive track record of successful projects. Currently, Solkamtech focuses on deploying solar minigrids and PAYGO solar home systems in Cameroon's Northern region, contributing to sustainable electrification and energy access in underserved communities.

Carl Mbeng , the Founder of Resourceprime , a Cameroonian company specializing in relations with authorities, regulatory frameworks, and energy policy matters. Carl brings extensive experience in navigating the regulatory landscape, establishing governmental partnerships, and ensuring the compliance of microgrid projects with national policies.

These three leaders— Jude Numfor, Serge Bukam, and Carl Mbeng —are the cornerstone of our initiative in Cameroon, ensuring that our projects are technically sound, financially sustainable, and aligned with national energy policies. Their contributions are instrumental in creating a robust and scalable model that can be replicated across other African countries.

Involving the Next Generation: Students at the Heart of Innovation

Recognizing the importance of youth involvement, I sought to integrate students from the IUT (University Institute of Technology) Fotso Victor of Bandjoun, National Polytechnic School of Yaoundé, University of Douala and National Polytechnic School of Maroua in Cameroon into the initiative. These students bring fresh perspectives, technical knowledge, and a willingness to learn. Through this collaboration, they engage in hands-on work, applying their theoretical knowledge to real-world projects, and contributing to the design, implementation, and evaluation of microgrid solutions.

Involving students also means creating opportunities for mentorship and skill development. Many of these young professionals will be future engineers, entrepreneurs, and researchers in the field of energy. Giving them exposure to real-world projects ensures they gain practical experience and a deep understanding of renewable energy challenges in Africa.

Creating a Mentorship Program with the Linux Foundation (LF)

One of my key contributions to this initiative was the idea of establishing a mentorship program in collaboration with the Linux Foundation . This program serves multiple purposes:

It provides a structured framework for collaboration between local companies, students, and global experts.

It enables knowledge sharing and technical guidance through experienced mentors, and the LF Energy - Hyphae APIS program.

It ensures that young professionals gain exposure to best practices in open-source energy solutions, bridging the gap between academia and industry.

It supports the standardization and open-source governance of microgrid solutions, making it easier for communities to adopt and sustain them.

By defining clear roles and responsibilities, the mentorship program ensures that stakeholders remain engaged and motivated to drive impact. The program also emphasizes research collaboration, ensuring that microgrid technologies continue to evolve based on scientific inquiry and technological advancements.

Looking Ahead: Part 3 - Strengthening Local Collaboration and Scaling Up

As we move forward, the next phase of this journey will focus on strengthening the collaboration between local businesses and students in Cameroon . The upcoming blog post will highlight:

How Solkamtech and REI are integrating students into their projects.

The first tangible results of the mentorship program and student participation.

Early outcomes from the first microgrid deployments and the impact on local communities.

How we are working to raise funds to accelerate the support for local enterprises and scale up the project’s reach.

This journey is only beginning, and with each new partnership, mentorship, and project, we are collectively advancing the future of sustainable energy in Africa.

Together, through open collaboration and shared knowledge, we can illuminate communities—one village at a time.

A village here, a village there - let the sun shine in!

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 02:38:23 GMT

A journey of global collaboration - part I

Last year was all about building our community and piloting our model. This blog is about what motivated me to start a non-profit focused on energy and open source and the mission that will guide us in the future.

Climate change is evident to all of us in the face of the floods in Pakistan killing more than 1700 people, the fires in Los Angeles destroying more than 10,000 homes, and the draught in Southern Africa, creating water shortage and famine for more than 5 countries. There is urgency to do something about the impact of climate change every day. It can be as simple as walking and sorting garbage. It can be about energy equity and renewable sources of generation.

Five years ago, in the face of climate disaster I pledged to invest in a solar microgrid and take the learnings to scale to any community. That investment cost is not an easy decision for people of average income in the US, and beyond reach in many developing countries.

My journey has taken me through startups in energy storage, EV infrastructure, and grid AI and last year I launched the non-profit, Energy IoT Open Source. Its mission is to democratize the microgrid and enable micro-utilities for communities worldwide.

Since then, we have joined forces with Linux Foundation Energy (LFE) and now lead the LFE Hyphae micgrogrid program and maintain LFE OpenLeADR 2.0b, another project that supports dynamic energy pricing and Virtual Power Plant (VPP) use cases.

Open source can be a sustainable path for many energy solutions and a viable option for reducing the cost of microgrids by opening not only the software components but also the hardware and solution blueprints.

The energy space is hard science and through open source this knowledge can be shared across the globe and young people can practice skills they learn in real scenarios. The job market is not kind to people without domain experience. Open source is a way to demonstrate your skills with an opportunity for mentorship and peer review.

Open source can be the home for all the common features that any ClimateTech venture in this space will need to address. What inspires me is the growing community of collaborators and volunteers willing to donate time and knowledge for this cause and share their past experience and microgrid solutions for the common good.

There are ambitions to open source as much as possible of the microgrid system extending the model to hardware, with notable success in the field with projects funded by enAccess foundation .

This year we get a chance to apply our collective efforts to at least one community in Cameroon. The goal is not to just build another microgrid but to establish a pattern of collaboration that brings forward the best of both worlds - shared knowledge and local commercial models for sustainability through the power of open source.

It started last year, at the LF Energy Summit 2024 in Brussels, Belgium. Following the demo of “ How open source can enable your next microgrid community project? ”, Dr Rodrigues Kwate Kwate, Ambassador of the Linux Foundation Energy and a member of the Task Force on Digitalization at the Group of Experts on Energy Efficiency at the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) reached out to me:

“Currently, I am working with off-grid communities in Africa, focusing on renewable energy projects. I am particularly interested in developing a microgrid project for these communities, and I believe there could be potential synergies between our areas of expertise.”

Fast forward to 2025, and now we have established an LFX Mentorship program to benefit those communities. I am inviting Dr. Kwate to share his story of organizing the communities in Cameroon for the next blog post in this series, and I am inviting you, to support our crowdfunding efforts.

Revolutionizing Energy Access: Highlights from Enaccess Abuja's Open Source in Energy Access Symposium

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 21:03:33 GMT

Introduction

The Open Source for Energy Access Symposium was held in Abuja, Nigeria from May 7-10, 2024. This event was jointly orchestrated by EnAccess and the World Resources Institute (WRI), with support from the World Bank. The purpose of the conference was to focus on Open Innovations to optimize industry collaboration, maximize the impact of donor funds, and establish an Open Source sector infrastructure. This initiative aims to foster interoperability, accelerate innovation cycles, and avoid the redundancy of efforts in the energy sector.

I attended the conference as a Cloud Engineer representing the non-profit organization, Energy IoT Open Source. At EnergyIoT Open Source, we combine the best of open source projects in the energy space to provide simple solutions for microgrids. Our work integrates both software and hardware to address common concerns in energy management, protocol management, communication management, and cybersecurity at the grid edge.

Day 1: Opening Day

Arrival and Registration

The first day began with registration at 8:20 AM in the Accreditation Hall. Upon registration, I received an EnAccess tag along with some delightful freebies including a tote bag, jotter, and various other useful items.

Opening Ceremony

The Opening Ceremony kicked off at around 9:00 AM with a series of welcome addresses from key figures: Clara Donadello from The EnAccess Foundation, Susan Onyango from the World Resources Institute, and Abba Aliyu from the Rural Electrification Agency. This was followed by an inspiring keynote speech on the potential of Open Source technologies in achieving SDG7, Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7) delivered by Michael Ivenso from the National Council on Climate Change & Global Methane Pledge.

Sustainable Development Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy

SDG7 aims to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. It is a critical component of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, as energy is essential for nearly every major challenge and opportunity the world faces today. From job creation to economic growth, security concerns to environmental challenges, access to energy is central to addressing these issues. The keynote emphasized that leveraging Open Source technologies can play a pivotal role in achieving SDG7 by fostering innovation, reducing costs, and enhancing the scalability of energy solutions. The session ran until 10:40 AM, after which we enjoyed a 20-minute coffee break.

Major Sessions/Workshops

Throughout the day, several key sessions and workshops were held. Here are a few notable ones:

Opportunities and Lessons Learned from Developing and Adopting Open Source Technologies in a Commercial Product (11:00 AM - 11:50 AM, Udeze Hall)

This session featured industry leaders from the African Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) space sharing their experiences with Open Source solutions. Daniel Komolafe from First Electric, Vaibhav Vaidya from Simusolar, Akeem Azeez from Koolboks, Kanayor Emeagwai from Okra, and Anayo Nas Okenwa from Nayo Tropical Technology Ltd. spoke candidly about the benefits, opportunities, challenges, and lessons learned from integrating Open Source technologies into their businesses. The session was moderated by Vivien Barnier from The EnAccess Foundation and offered a realistic look into the practical challenges of using Open Source in a commercial setting.

Takeaways :

Koolhome by Koolboks: Akeem Azeez highlighted their innovative product, the Koolhome. This solar-powered refrigeration solution generates continuous cooling even in the absence of power and sunlight. Customers can pay in small installments through a Pay-As-You-Go technology, which enables mobile money payments and GSM-based machine-to-machine connectivity to remotely control and monitor the refrigerator’s usage, billing, and performance. This innovation addresses the critical need for affordable and reliable refrigeration in off-grid areas, improving food security and quality of life.

Cicada by Okra Solar: Kanayor Emeagwai discussed the Okra "Cicada" IoT communications module, open-sourced by EnAccess. Cicada is platform-agnostic, compatible with any MCU and even Linux, and supports multiple connectivity options including 2G, 3G, 4G, and WiFi. Its modular design allows it to be integrated with various PCBs, and it supports MQTT for bidirectional communications, optimizing for high latency or unreliable networks. The Cicada library, available on GitHub, exemplifies how Open Source can facilitate remote monitoring and control, essential for effective energy management in remote off-grid villages.

Open Source Geospatial Solutions in Energy Access (11:55 AM - 12:45 PM, Udeze Hall)

This session explored how Open Source geospatial tools can be leveraged to improve energy access. It highlighted the importance of these tools in planning and implementing energy projects, especially in underserved areas.

Tools :

Energy Access Explorer (EAE) : This tool stood out during the session for its ability to analyze and visualize data to identify areas with the greatest need for energy access interventions. It integrates various data layers to facilitate decision-making for energy project planning.

Quantum GIS (QGIS) : Introduced by the Rural Electrification Agency, QGIS is fine-tuned for local use cases in Nigeria. Developed in collaboration with EAE, QGIS helps in identifying sites for electrification projects using various organizational layers such as agricultural communities, on/off-grid status, transmission lines, population counts, and security concerns.

Monitoring and Validation : QGIS, along with Google Earth, uses satellite imagery for project verification and location validation, ensuring accuracy throughout the project's lifecycle. This combination of tools enhances the precision and effectiveness of planning and monitoring energy access projects

Open Source for Climate Finance and Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (1:45 PM - 2:30 PM, Udeze Hall)

This discussion focused on the role of Open Source technologies in climate finance and the transparency of monitoring, reporting, and verification processes. It provided a historical overview of how collaboration and Open Source technologies have driven advancements in this field.

For more detailed information on the sessions from Day 1, you can visit the Open Source for Energy Access Symposium schedule

Impactful Session

One of the most impactful sessions for me was on FAIR Batteries. Dr. Peter Ngene, an Assistant Professor at the Debye Institute for Nanomaterials Science - Utrecht University, discussed the development of affordable and easy-to-use redox flow battery technologies suitable for small mini-grids in rural areas. The FAIR battery project aims to make the knowledge of battery assembly and operation Open Source to facilitate the energy transition in poorer rural areas.

Personal Reflections

The first day of the conference was immensely informative and inspiring. The keynote speech set an optimistic tone for the potential of Open Source technologies in achieving sustainable development goals. The sessions throughout the day provided valuable insights into the real-world applications and challenges of adopting Open Source solutions in the energy sector. Networking with other professionals and hearing their experiences further reinforced the importance of collaboration and innovation in driving progress.

Day 2: Demonstrations and Breakout Sessions

Arrival and Registration

Day 2 started similarly to Day 1, with arrival and registration, followed by opening remarks and a recap of the first day's highlights.

Demonstration of Open Source Technologies

The morning was dedicated to demonstrating various open source software in the energy space:

Energy Access Explorer: The Digital Public Good to Deliver Climate-Friendly and Viable Energy Transitions (9:30 AM - 10:30 AM, Udeze Hall)

Presented by Dimitris Mentis, Akasha Saklani, and Douglas Ronoh from the World Resources Institute, this session introduced the Energy Access Explorer (EAE ). EAE is the first open source, data-driven, integrated, and inclusive approach to energy planning, helping stakeholders identify high-priority areas for energy access interventions. It functions as a dynamic information system, reducing software engineering and data transaction costs for both data providers and users, and facilitating data management and governance.

Prospect (10:35 AM - 11:20 AM, Udeze Hall)

Presented by Brianna Schuyler from the Access to Energy Institute and Razvan Sandru from GIZ GET.invest, this session covered Prospect, an open-source platform that automatically collects, harmonizes, aggregates, analyzes, and displays data from modern, sustainable energy solutions. It enables companies to securely share data, gain insights, and aid in financing; allows subsidy programs or investors to access verified results; and helps governments track the real-time state of electrification.

Offgridplanner.org (11:25 AM - 12:10 PM, Udeze Hall)

Presented by Gregory Ireland from the Reiner Lemoine Institut, this session introduced Offgridplanner.org , a free online tool for planning off-grid systems in Nigeria. The tool simulates and optimizes off-grid electricity supply systems using the open energy modeling framework and offers a unique distribution grid layout design feature. It is aimed at project developers, government institutions, researchers, and energy access practitioners.

For more detailed information on these and other sessions, you can visit the Open Source for Energy Access Symposium schedule.

Breakout Sessions

After the demonstrations, I participated in a breakout session themed "Presentation of Breakout Sessions and Working Group Topics":

Presentation of Breakout Sessions and Working Group Topics (12:15 PM - 12:45 PM, Udeze Hall):

A. Open Source in Energy Access and Collaborators Community

Discussed the missing building blocks and ways to improve collaboration.

Moderator: Vivien Barnier, The EnAccess Foundation

B. Funding/Investment Strategies

Explored how funders/investors can benefit from collaboration and interoperability and promote/facilitate Open Source approaches.

Moderator: Chibuikem Agbaegbu, Climate and Energy Specialist

C. Data Management, Governance, Security, and Open Data Standards for Energy Access Projects

Delved into the needed data management infrastructure, roles, and responsibilities of data providers, and the potential for sector standards.

Moderator: Dimitris, World Resources Institute

D. Drawing the Line Between Open Source and IP

Explored the balance between Open Source and Intellectual Property rights, and how to leverage both for innovation and competitiveness.

Moderator: Princess Odiaka, Trifinity Intelligence Consult Ltd.

I was part of Group B, where we discussed funding and investment strategies, particularly how funders and investors can benefit from and promote Open Source approaches.

Closing Ceremony

The day concluded with a closing ceremony:
Presentation and Q&A on Breakout Sessions Outcomes (4:10 PM - 5:00 PM, Udeze Hall)

Recap of Symposium Highlights

Closing Remarks and Next Steps

Group Picture

Personal Reflections

Day 2 was rich with practical demonstrations of Open Source technologies that have significant potential to transform the energy sector. The breakout sessions facilitated deep discussions on critical topics, particularly funding and investment strategies in my group. The closing ceremony was a fitting end to a day filled with learning and collaboration, setting a positive tone for the remainder of the symposium.

Breakout Session Group

Day 3: Hackathon and Ideation

Arrival and Registration

Day 3 began similarly to the previous days, followed by the presentation of challenges for the day. This day was dedicated to a hackathon and ideation sessions aimed at tackling specific projects.

Presentation of Challenges

The challenges presented included:

Ideation Challenge: Collaboration Roadmap for Open Source Geospatial Solutions in the Energy Access Space
The goal of this challenge was to develop a collaboration roadmap to facilitate knowledge exchange and collaboration among open source practitioners. This roadmap aimed to maximize the efficiency and adoption of geospatial solutions where they are needed the most.

Hackathon – Validation Algorithm of Energy Production Data

The objective of this challenge was to focus on data validation, which is developing a machine-learning model to differentiate between energy data originating from the grid and those from a generator. This distinction is crucial for accurate energy planning. Their model, trained on features like current, voltage, and frequency, achieved an impressive 80% accuracy in identifying data sources.

Hackathon Challenge: Open Hardware Template Repository
This project aimed to create a KiCAD template repository with features like automatic diff generation for PCBs and schematics, release management using GitHub tags, and a workflow to update and deploy production files.

Hackathon Challenge: Port OpenPAYGO Python Library to Other Languages (JS, PHP)

The goal was to make the OpenPAYGO functionality available in other programming languages such as JavaScript and PHP. The primary focus was on the Token feature of the OpenPAYGO ecosystem.

Initiated Projects

Due to the contributions and presence of hackathon participants, three projects were initiated:

Ideation Challenge: Collaboration Roadmap for Open Source Geospatial Solutions in the Energy Access Space
Hackathon – Validation Algorithm of Energy Production Data
Hackathon Challenge: Port OpenPAYGO Python Library to Other Languages (JS, PHP)

Participation in Validation Algorithm of Energy Production Data

I was part of the team working on the Validation Algorithm of Energy Production Data. My role involved setting up Docker and other dependencies to create an environment conducive to analysis and development. This setup was crucial for enabling the integration of the Prospect Platform with MPM, allowing users to take full advantage of Prospect's capabilities without needing manual steps.

Personal Reflections

Day 3 was highly engaging and collaborative. The hackathon environment fostered creativity and teamwork, as participants worked on innovative solutions to real-world challenges.

The team I worked with included remarkable individuals like Brianncaa Schuyler, Director of Digital Product at Access to Energy Institute, and Akeem Azeez, R&D/IoT Engineer at Koolboks. Brianna and Akeem focused on the data analysis and validation of a local subset of remote locations in Nigeria, bringing their expertise in digital products and IoT to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the data.

Meanwhile, I was part of the team working on the Validation Algorithm of Energy Production Data challenge. My role involved setting up Docker and other dependencies to create an environment conducive to analysis and development. This setup was crucial for enabling the integration of the Validation Algorithm, allowing users to take full advantage of capabilities without needing manual steps.

Working alongside Brianna and Akeem was an enriching experience. Their insights into the local energy landscape and technical expertise greatly complemented our collective efforts. We collaborated seamlessly, combining our skills and knowledge to develop robust solutions. The synergy within our team not only enhanced the project's outcomes but also reinforced the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in tackling complex energy challenges.

Being part of the Validation Algorithm of Energy Production Data project allowed me to contribute directly to the development of tools that can significantly enhance energy planning and management. This experience was a testament to the power of teamwork and innovation in driving sustainable energy solutions.

Day 4: Hackathon and Ideation - Day 2

The final day started with arrival and registration from 8:20 to 9:00 AM in the Accreditation Hall.

Morning Sessions

Recap of Day 1 Hackathon and Ideation (9:00 AM - 9:30 AM, Udeze Hall)

The day began with a recap of the first day of the hackathon and ideation sessions, highlighting progress made and setting the stage for the final day of work.

Feedback and Re-prioritization

Teams provided feedback and adjusted their priorities based on their progress and any challenges faced. This session ensured everyone was aligned and ready to make the most of the final day.

Working in Teams

From 9:45 AM to 12:30 PM, teams continued their work in both Udeze Hall and Louisa Hall. This extended work period allowed teams to dive deep into their projects, focusing on development, testing, and preparation for final presentations.

Lunch Break

Lunch was provided by the symposium from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM. Coffee, tea, and snacks were available throughout the day to keep participants energized.

Afternoon Sessions

Continued Team Work (1:30 PM - 4:30 PM, Udeze Hall & Louisa Hall)

Teams resumed their work in the afternoon, making final adjustments and preparing for their presentations.

Final Presentations and Awards

Each team presented the outcomes of their projects, showcasing the progress made during the hackathon and ideation sessions. This was an opportunity to highlight innovative solutions and share insights gained.

Awards and Closing

The symposium concluded with an awards ceremony, recognizing standout projects and contributions. Closing remarks reflected on the symposium's achievements and set the tone for future collaboration and innovation in the open source energy space.

Personal Reflections

Day 4 was a culmination of intense collaboration and innovation. The focused work periods allowed teams to make significant progress, and the final presentations were a testament to the power of open source solutions in the energy sector. The awards ceremony provided a celebratory end to an inspiring symposium, leaving participants motivated to continue their work in advancing energy access through open source technologies.

Personal Experience and Insights

As a Cloud Engineer representing EnergyIoT, I had the privilege of participating in this symposium and engaging with thought leaders and innovators. The sessions provided deep insights into how open source technologies can optimize industry collaboration, maximize the impact of donor funds, and establish robust sector infrastructure. From the opening ceremony, where we explored the potential of open source to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7), to the detailed technical sessions and collaborative hackathons, each day was filled with valuable learning and networking opportunities.

On a personal level, the symposium resonated deeply with me as I have witnessed firsthand the energy challenges faced by my community back home in Nigeria. Access to reliable and affordable energy remains a critical issue, and the discussions around innovative solutions inspired me to envision a brighter energy future for Nigeria. The community-focused projects and success stories shared during the sessions highlighted the transformative power of technology and collaboration, reinforcing my commitment to leveraging my skills to drive positive change.

What truly inspired me was the potential of these advancements to bridge the energy gap in Nigeria. The ideas and strategies discussed provided a roadmap for harnessing open source solutions to not only improve energy access but also foster economic growth and development. This experience has galvanized my passion for contributing to the future of energy in Nigeria, where sustainable and inclusive energy solutions can uplift communities and empower individuals.

Highlights and Key Takeaways

Day 1 set the tone with impactful keynote addresses and discussions on the benefits and challenges of adopting open source technologies in commercial products. The sessions highlighted the real-world applications and potential of these technologies to drive innovation and efficiency.

Day 2 was dedicated to demonstrations of cutting-edge open source tools and platforms like Energy Access Explorer, Prospect, and Offgridplanner.org. These sessions showcased practical solutions that can significantly enhance energy planning and access, particularly in underserved regions.

Day 3 and Day 4 were focused on hackathon and ideation activities. Participants worked collaboratively on various projects, including the development of a collaboration roadmap for geospatial solutions, the integration of Prospect with MPM, and the porting of the OpenPAYGO Python library to other programming languages. These hands-on sessions underscored the importance of practical implementation and the collaborative spirit of the open source community.

Future Prospects and Closing Thoughts

The symposium concluded with final presentations and an awards ceremony that recognized outstanding contributions and innovative solutions. The collaborative efforts and shared knowledge from this event are expected to drive significant advancements in energy access and management.

The Open Source for Energy Access Symposium was a resounding success, fostering a spirit of collaboration and innovation. It reinforced the critical role of open source solutions in addressing global energy challenges and highlighted the collective efforts needed to drive sustainable development. As we move forward, the insights and connections gained from this symposium will undoubtedly play a crucial role in our ongoing efforts to enhance energy access and sustainability.

Conclusion

The Open Source for Energy Access Symposium held in Abuja, Nigeria, from May 7-10, 2024, was an inspiring and highly productive event. Jointly orchestrated by EnAccess and the World Resources Institute (WRI) and supported by the World Bank, the symposium gathered industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to explore the transformative potential of open source solutions in the energy sector.

What is Energy IoT and why it is needed?

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 12:12:42 GMT

Solar energy, NEM2 plans, EV charging challenges are adding slowly energy complexity to our homes, and communities in the name of Net Zero initiatives. Are we really ready to democratize these newly forming "microgrids" of all sizes?

Internet of Things (IoT)
If you have a smart thermostat in your house or check the Weather with Google Eco every day, you have experienced already the Internet of Things or smart devices that collect data that can be made actionable in a future event.

Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)

GE introduced Industrial Internet of Things to refer to the digital transformation of industrial assets like wind turbines, utility scale solar inverters, and the manufacturing processes for those. Unlike the smart devices we enjoy in our homes, the industrial counterparts require significant amount of security and data processing.

Energy Internet of Things (eIoT)

Somewhere in between is Energy IoT. This is easier to illustrate with early adopter households of the Tesla technology. If you have added a Tesla EV, Tesla solar panels and a Tesla power wall to your home, you are already enjoying the benefits of these energy things connected with each via the internet and managed via the Tesla app as your home microgrid. Next time you are on the road, your Tesla EV can benefit from another microgird, the Tesla EV charging station. This scenario is great for sunny California with abundance of affluence and early adopter capital. It becomes a real challenge to provide a similar microgrid experience for the needs of communities that do not yet have access to a stable grid or can afford Tesla technology.

This is what motivated the launch of Energy IoT Open Source - to democratize the microgrid for all through shared knowledge. An alternative path to Nicola Tesla's dream to capture free energy through a wireless grid.

81e8a169

First Microgrid Tour was Huge Success

October 8th was a big day for our Microgrid

A Warm Welcome

Sharing Stories and Showing the Tech

Sunlight, Small Groups, and Good Conversations

A Community in Motion

What’s Next

My Experience with the LFX Mentorship at LF Energy - Hyphae APIS

Why Guarding Basic Infrastructure Is Hurting the Clean Energy Revolution

Imagine if every car manufacturer built their own kind of wheel—and refused to share it. You’d have a traffic jam of innovation. That’s what’s happening in today’s energy sector.

�� Proving the Model at SF Climate Week

�� The Cost of Proprietary Lock-In

�� Open Infrastructure Is the Fix

�� Innovate Where It Matters

⚡ The Future Is Open

�� See It for Yourself

From Hackathon to Global Impact: How a 24-Hour Build at Port Labs Could Transform Energy Access

What if you could help solve the global energy crisis in just 24 hours—with open-source hardware and a soldering iron?

The Problem: You Bought the Hardware, But Can You Use It?

Why This Hackathon Was Different

�� Ready to Join the Movement?

Astera Institute awards $100K grant to Energy IoT Open Source

The grant supports Energy IoT’s work to expand open-source microgrid solutions, starting with an open-source energy lab at Port Labs in Oakland.

“We’re excited to support Energy IoT Open Source’s work to democratize access to microgrids,” said Eli Dourado, Head of Strategic Investments at Astera Institute. “Their hard work to build a decentralized, open-source platform can change lives and deliver real-world impact.”

Millions of people still lack access to reliable electricity. At the same time, the energy transition demands an estimated 1.6 to 2 million new electricians over the next two decades. Energy IoT is addressing both challenges by:

The Astera grant secures Energy IoT’s Open Source Energy Lab at Port Labs in Oakland for one year, providing space for workshops, prototyping, and mentorship. The lab builds on the momentum of the SF Climate Hackathon and aims to become a replicable model for global deployment.

Join Us: Power the Future

A village here, a village there - let the sun shine in!

A journey of global collaboration - part II

A village here, a village there - let the sun shine in!

A journey of global collaboration - part I

Revolutionizing Energy Access: Highlights from Enaccess Abuja's Open Source in Energy Access Symposium

﻿ Introduction

﻿ Day 1: Opening Day

Arrival and Registration

Opening Ceremony

Major Sessions/Workshops

Throughout the day, several key sessions and workshops were held. Here are a few notable ones:

Opportunities and Lessons Learned from Developing and Adopting Open Source Technologies in a Commercial Product (11:00 AM - 11:50 AM, Udeze Hall)

Takeaways :

Open Source Geospatial Solutions in Energy Access (11:55 AM - 12:45 PM, Udeze Hall)

Tools :

Open Source for Climate Finance and Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (1:45 PM - 2:30 PM, Udeze Hall)

Impactful Session

Personal Reflections

﻿ Day 2: Demonstrations and Breakout Sessions

Arrival and Registration

Demonstration of Open Source Technologies

Energy Access Explorer: The Digital Public Good to Deliver Climate-Friendly and Viable Energy Transitions (9:30 AM - 10:30 AM, Udeze Hall)

Prospect (10:35 AM - 11:20 AM, Udeze Hall)

Offgridplanner.org (11:25 AM - 12:10 PM, Udeze Hall)

Breakout Sessions

Presentation of Breakout Sessions and Working Group Topics (12:15 PM - 12:45 PM, Udeze Hall):

Closing Ceremony

Personal Reflections

Breakout Session Group

Day 3: Hackathon and Ideation

Arrival and Registration

Presentation of Challenges

Hackathon – Validation Algorithm of Energy Production Data

Hackathon Challenge: Port OpenPAYGO Python Library to Other Languages (JS, PHP)

Initiated Projects

Participation in Validation Algorithm of Energy Production Data

Personal Reflections

Day 4: Hackathon and Ideation - Day 2

Morning Sessions

Recap of Day 1 Hackathon and Ideation (9:00 AM - 9:30 AM, Udeze Hall)

Feedback and Re-prioritization

Working in Teams

Lunch Break

Afternoon Sessions

Continued Team Work (1:30 PM - 4:30 PM, Udeze Hall & Louisa Hall)

Final Presentations and Awards

Awards and Closing

﻿ Personal Reflections

Personal Experience and Insights

Highlights and Key Takeaways

Future Prospects and Closing Thoughts

Conclusion

Introduction

Day 1: Opening Day

Day 2: Demonstrations and Breakout Sessions

Personal Reflections