Grid Tied Solar Export Monitor
Build a Grid Tied Solar Export Monitor: ESP8266 Kit for Net Metering and Feed-In Tariff Logging
Every part needed, pre-tested for compatibility, with an AI build companion trained on this exact project. Shipped from Bengaluru in 3-5 days.
Discover exactly how much solar energy you export to the grid and calculate your potential feed-in tariff earnings with this intermediate-level build. Powered by an ESP8266, this kit captures real-time current flow—both import and export—using a bidirectional INA219 sensor, timestamps it with a DS3231 RTC, and logs everything to a microSD card. Whether you’re a student exploring renewable energy or a hobbyist monitoring home solar, this project turns raw data into actionable insights.
What You'll Build
You’ll assemble a complete net metering data logger that senses grid import and solar export simultaneously, displays live power direction on an OLED screen, and stores time-stamped energy data on a microSD card. The system connects to WiFi, enabling you to push logged data to cloud platforms or view it remotely. By the end, you’ll have a tool that emulates utility-grade net metering and helps you understand the economics of solar power.
What You'll Learn
- Interfacing the INA219 bidirectional current sensor with ESP8266 to measure import and export currents
- Wiring and calibrating the ACS712 20A module for high-current monitoring and overcurrent protection
- Synchronizing data logging with the DS3231 real-time clock and writing to a MicroSD card module
- Programming the 0.96-inch OLED to display real-time power flow direction and net energy accumulation
Kit Contents
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| ESP8266 NodeMCU | x1 |
| INA219 | x1 |
| ACS712 20A | x1 |
| DS3231 RTC | x1 |
| MicroSD Module | x1 |
| 0.96in OLED | x1 |
| 4.7kΩ Resistors | x5 |
| 100nF Caps | x5 |
| 400-pt Breadboard | x1 |
| Micro USB Cable | x1 |
Why Buy This Kit Instead of Sourcing Parts Separately
| Factor | Sourcing Separately | Compoden Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility checks | You verify every part | Pre-tested as a system |
| Build support | Forums and scattered tutorials | AI companion trained on this exact project |
| Time to first working build | Days of debugging | Hours, with step-by-step guidance |
| Shipping coordination | Multiple sellers, multiple delays | One shipment from Bengaluru in 3-5 days |
Who This Kit Is For
Designed for CBSE Class 11–12 students building physics projects on renewable energy, B.Tech ECE/EEE students prototyping IoT-based energy monitoring systems, and participants in Smart India Hackathon working on solar energy innovations. Also ideal for ATL Tinkering Labs introducing real-world net metering concepts.
Built and Backed by Compoden
Every Compoden kit ships with an AI build companion trained on this exact project — accessible via a QR code on the box, with WhatsApp and email backup. We've spent 10 years building projects for makers, schools, and institutions across India. If a part fails because of a manufacturing defect, replace it free within 7 days.
What if I get stuck during the build?
Scan the QR code inside the box to access your AI build companion, trained specifically on this project. It provides step-by-step debugging help, and a Compoden engineer can assist via WhatsApp in under 4 hours.
Does this kit work with my existing solar inverter?
This kit is an educational monitor and not a certified net meter. It reads current from a non-invasive clamp or shunt (not included) placed on your grid connection line. It does not interface with inverter communication ports; it simply measures the power flow.
Can I calculate my actual feed-in tariff using this kit?
Yes, you can compute net exported kWh by integrating the logged current and voltage over time. The AI companion includes guidance on applying your local electricity provider’s tariff rates to the logged data to estimate earnings.
Is the kit safe for 230V AC mains?
The kit operates at 3.3V–5V DC. Never connect the sensors directly to AC lines. Use an AC current clamp or shunt with proper isolation. The included ACS712 can measure up to 20A when properly placed in a low-voltage DC section, but for AC, you must use appropriate isolation and follow local electrical safety codes.
Bidirectional INA219 detects import and export. ESP8266 logs net metering data for electricity feed-in tariff.
What's in this kit
Other projects you can build
Shipping Information
- Prepaid Orders: ₹75 for orders up to ₹999, FREE shipping above ₹999
- COD Orders: ₹125 shipping + ₹50 COD fee = ₹175 total
- Delivery Timeline: Dispatch in 1-2 days, delivery in 2-7 days depending on location
Returns & Warranty
- 7-Day Return: Manufacturing defects only (approval required)
- Warranty: 7 days from delivery
- Non-Returnable: Batteries, consumables, cut wires, clearance items