NFE / SLS Energy / Energy IoT -intro meeting

Quick summary

During this meeting, Arila, Merci, Léandre, and Aaron discussed a collaboration on an open-source microgrid project in Uganda, focusing on battery storage solutions, battery-as-a-service models, and integration with open-source energy management systems. They explored technical specifications, cost models, and operational challenges related to battery backup, grid outages, and energy trading platforms. The participants also considered opportunities for mentorship programs and local community involvement to support sustainable energy solutions.

Action items for Arila

• Facilitate the sharing of open-source hardware and software specifications (e.g., open BMS, hi-fi APIS) with Aaron and Léandre for integration and testing.
• Share a diagram of the submetring panel and energy management setup with Léandre and Aaron.
• Coordinate engagement with local universities and mentorship programs to involve students in the energy projects.
• Support defining the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will outline the pilot project's scope and transition to commercial stages.
• Monitor progress and provide sponsorship funding for battery storage for the pilot project starting by October.

Action items for Léandre

• Provide detailed battery data sheets and specifications for the 48V 2.5 kWh and 5 kWh systems to Aaron and Arila via email.
• Clarify and confirm the service pricing structure and cost model with Aaron for the pilot microgrid project in Uganda.
• Share information about current battery monitoring systems and explore integration with open-source BMS and EMS solutions.
• Assist in logistics and regulatory requirements for shipping batteries within East Africa, especially Uganda and Rwanda.
• Engage in discussions to define the terms of collaboration and commercial agreements related to battery-as-a-service.
• Consider sharing technology and expertise for the semi-mobile irrigation battery systems as a potential learning case.

Action items for Aaron

• Share detailed data on current microgrid capacity, battery needs, and outage patterns for community planning.
• Provide feedback on battery service pricing and integration from Nearly Free Energy's perspective.
• Collaborate with Léandre and Arila to develop a pilot project plan aiming to start battery deployment by October.
• Facilitate contact with local community partners and potentially local universities for mentorship and project support.
• Share research and documentation on grid outage causes and tariff structures with Léandre and Arila.
• Maintain communications with Léandre and Arila to define the Memorandum of Understanding and commercial framework.