Integrate IAMMETER with Node-RED for Real-Time Energy Monitoring

Integrating IAMMETER Wi-Fi Energy Meters with Node-RED

Integrating IAMMETER Wi-Fi energy meters with Node-RED empowers users to create customized, real-time energy monitoring and automation solutions. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of integrating IAMMETER devices with Node-RED, highlighting key features, integration methods, and practical applications.

Introduction to Node-RED and IAMMETER Integration

Node-RED is an open-source, flow-based development tool designed for visual programming. It enables users to connect hardware devices, APIs, and online services through a browser-based editor, facilitating the creation of complex data flows with ease.

IAMMETER offers both single-phase and three-phase Wi-Fi energy meters that are bi-directional and DIN rail-mounted. These meters are ideal for monitoring energy consumption and are particularly effective in solar photovoltaic (PV) system applications. By integrating IAMMETER energy meters with Node-RED, users can achieve real-time energy data visualization, analysis, and automation.

Key Features of IAMMETER Node-RED Integration

• Real-Time Energy Monitoring: Access instantaneous data on voltage, current, power, and energy consumption.
• Custom Dashboards: Design personalized dashboards to visualize energy data tailored to specific needs.
• Automation Capabilities: Automate actions based on energy data, such as controlling appliances when certain thresholds are met.
• Flexible Integration: Utilize IAMMETER’s open API for seamless integration with various platforms and services.

Integration Methods

1. Using the IAMMETER Node for Node-RED

IAMMETER provides a dedicated Node-RED node that simplifies the integration process.

Installation Steps:

1. Install the IAMMETER Node: In Node-RED, navigate to the Palette Manager and install the node-red-contrib-iammeter node.
2. Configure the Node: Add the IAMMETER node to your flow and configure it with the necessary parameters, including the meter's IP address and credentials.
3. Deploy the Flow: Once configured, deploy the flow to start receiving real-time energy data from the IAMMETER device.

For detailed instructions and examples, refer to the IAMMETER Node-RED Documentation.

2. Integrating via Modbus/TCP Protocol

For users requiring high-frequency data polling, integrating IAMMETER energy meters with Node-RED using the Modbus/TCP protocol is an effective approach.

Steps:

1. Install Modbus Nodes: In Node-RED, install the node-red-contrib-modbus nodes from the Palette Manager.
2. Configure Modbus Settings: Set up the Modbus Read or Flex Getter nodes with the IAMMETER device's IP address and the appropriate Modbus registers.
3. Deploy and Monitor: Deploy the flow to begin polling data from the energy meter at the desired interval.

For a comprehensive guide, visit Request the Energy Meter from Modbus/TCP @ Node-RED.

Practical Applications

Monitoring Solar PV Systems

Integrating IAMMETER energy meters with Node-RED allows users to monitor solar PV system performance effectively. By visualizing data such as solar generation, grid import/export, and household consumption, users can optimize energy usage and increase self-consumption rates.

For a step-by-step tutorial, see Monitor Your Solar PV System in Node-RED.

Utilizing Solar Surplus for Appliance Control

Node-RED can be configured to automate appliances based on solar surplus energy detected by IAMMETER devices. For instance, excess solar energy can be directed to power water heaters, thereby maximizing the use of generated solar power and reducing reliance on the grid.

Learn more about this application in Heat the Water Heater Using Solar Surplus.

Resources and Tutorials

• IAMMETER Node-RED Integration Guide: https://www.iammeter.com/docs/nodered
• Node-RED Flows Library - IAMMETER: https://flows.nodered.org/node/node-red-contrib-iammeter
• GitHub Repository for IAMMETER Node-RED Node: https://github.com/lewei50/node-red-contrib-iammeter
• Video Tutorial - Monitor Your Solar PV System in Node-RED: YouTube Video

By integrating IAMMETER energy meters with Node-RED, users can develop customized, real-time energy monitoring and automation systems tailored to their specific requirements. This integration not only enhances energy management but also contributes to increased efficiency and cost savings.