DIY Hardware Manual

1. Introduction

1.1 What Is IREO?

The Intelligent Residential Energy Orchestrator (IREO) is an AI-powered energy hub that controls the flow of electricity between your solar panels, battery storage, the utility grid, and your home loads. Its mission: minimize your electricity costs and maximize solar self-consumption.

IREO uses a Python-based "Neural Dispatch Brain" (brain.py) running on a Raspberry Pi to make real-time decisions — CHARGE the battery when grid prices are low, HOLD energy for later, or SELL/EXPORT when rates spike — all autonomously, 24/7.

1.2 Why Edmonton?

Edmonton and the surrounding area (including Sherwood Park) present a unique opportunity for solar energy:

• Long summer days — Edmonton receives 17+ hours of daylight in June, producing excellent solar yields from May–September.
• Alberta's deregulated electricity market — Volatile real-time pool prices (via AESO) mean the AI brain can exploit price spikes by selling stored energy at premium rates, especially during winter evening peaks ($0.15–$0.22/kWh).
• Cold winters — While solar production drops November–February, the AI shifts strategy to buy cheap overnight power and sell during expensive morning/evening peaks.
• Government incentives — The Canada Greener Homes Loan offers up to $40,000 interest-free financing for solar and battery installations.
• Net metering — Alberta's Micro-generation Regulation allows systems up to 5 MW to export excess to the grid and receive credits.

1.3 Assumptions

• You are located in the Edmonton / Sherwood Park area of Alberta, Canada.
• You have basic tools (drill, screwdrivers, wrenches) and basic electronics knowledge (can solder, use a multimeter, follow wiring diagrams).
• You have a suitable south-facing roof or ground area with minimal shading.
• You understand that grid-tied electrical work requires a certified electrician — this manual guides DIY for the low-voltage AI controller and off-grid testing only.

1.4 How This Manual Is Organized

1. Safety Guidelines — Read before touching any equipment.
2. System Overview — Understand how each component connects.
3. Components & BOM — What to buy, where to buy it, and approximate costs.
4. Incentives & Regulations — Grants, rebates, and permits in Alberta.
5. Step-by-Step Assembly — 9 detailed installation steps.
6. AI Brain Integration — Installing and configuring the Python script.
7. Dashboard Setup — Setting up the monitoring web interface.
8. Troubleshooting & FAQ — Common problems and solutions.
9. Glossary — Technical terms explained.
10. References — Supplier links, regulations, and further reading.

2. Safety Guidelines

2.1 Electrical Hazards

• Solar panels generate DC voltage whenever exposed to light — they cannot be "turned off." A 10-panel string can produce 400V+ DC, which is lethal.
• Always assume wires are live. Use a multimeter to verify zero voltage before touching any connection.
• Work on wiring only during overcast conditions or at night for solar circuits, or cover panels with opaque tarps.
• AC circuits (grid-tied): Must be de-energized at the main breaker by a qualified person. Lock-out/tag-out procedures apply.
• Never work alone — have someone nearby who can call 911.

2.2 Battery Safety

• Lithium batteries can catch fire or explode if shorted, punctured, overcharged, or exposed to extreme temperatures.
• Use only Battery Management System (BMS)-equipped batteries from reputable manufacturers (e.g., RELiON, Pylontech).
• Install batteries in a fireproof enclosure — use metal NEMA-rated cabinets, not wood or plastic.
• Keep a Class D fire extinguisher (for lithium fires) near the battery bank. Water will NOT extinguish lithium fires.
• Maintain ambient temperature between 5°C and 35°C — lithium batteries degrade in Edmonton's -30°C winters if unheated.
• Use insulated tools only. Remove jewelry and watches when working near batteries.
• Never mix battery chemistries or capacities in the same bank.

2.3 Rooftop / Height Safety

• Use a proper fall arrest harness rated to CSA Z259.10 standards when working on roofs.
• Do not work on wet, icy, or snowy roofs — wait for dry conditions.
• Use proper scaffolding or extension ladders (rated Type 1A or better). Have a helper stabilize the ladder base.
• In Edmonton, roof work is safest May–September. Avoid winter installations unless you are experienced.

2.4 Required PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)

2.5 Alberta Codes & Permits

• Alberta Safety Codes Act — All electrical installations must meet the current Canadian Electrical Code (CSA C22.1-24).
• Electrical Permit — Required from the City of Edmonton (~$200) before starting any grid-tied electrical work.
• Inspection — A Safety Codes Officer must inspect and approve the installation before energizing.
• Micro-generation Application — Required for grid-connected solar systems under Alberta's Micro-generation Regulation (AR 27/2008).
• Only a certified master electrician may connect your system to the grid. This is non-negotiable.

2.6 Emergency Procedures

3. System Overview

3.1 Architecture Diagram

The IREO system consists of six major components connected in this flow:

3.2 How It Works — The AI Decision Loop

1. Sense — Current and voltage sensors (ACS712/INA219) measure solar output, battery state-of-charge (SoC), grid import/export, and home consumption.
2. Analyze — The brain.py script monitors the AESO pool price and applies seasonal thresholds to determine optimal action.
3. Decide — The Neural Dispatcher makes one of four decisions every tick:
   • ⚡ SELL — Grid price is high → discharge battery to grid/home
   • ⬇ CHARGE — Grid price is low → charge battery from grid/solar
   • ⚡ PRE-CHARGE — Price spike predicted → charge now to sell later
   • ⏸ HOLD — Neutral price → maintain current state
4. Act — GPIO-controlled relays route power accordingly through the inverter/charger.
5. Report — The live dashboard (dashboard.html) displays real-time metrics via a local web server.

3.3 Seasonal Strategy (Edmonton)

4. Components & Bill of Materials

4.1 Solar Panels

4.2 Battery Storage

4.3 Inverter & Charge Controller

4.4 AI Brain & Sensors

4.5 Enclosure, Wiring & Protection

4.6 Tools Required

4.7 Total Estimated Cost Summary

5. Incentives & Regulations in Edmonton/Alberta

5.1 Federal Incentives

Canada Greener Homes Loan

• Amount: Up to $40,000 interest-free loan for eligible home energy retrofits including solar panels and battery storage.
• Term: 10-year repayment period.
• Eligibility: Must own the home, complete a pre- and post-retrofit EnerGuide evaluation.
• Application: NRCan — Canada Greener Homes

Canada Revenue Agency — Clean Energy Tax Credits

• Check current CRA guidelines for Clean Technology Investment Tax Credit (ITC) — up to 30% refundable tax credit for eligible clean energy investments.

5.2 Provincial (Alberta) Programs

Alberta Micro-Generation Regulation

• Allows residential systems up to 5 MW to connect to the grid and export excess energy.
• Net billing: You receive credit at the retail rate for exported kWh.
• Application through your utility retailer (e.g., EPCOR, ENMAX, Direct Energy).

Municipal Programs

• City of Edmonton: Change Homes for Climate program — check edmonton.ca for current rebates on solar installations.
• PACE financing: Some Alberta municipalities offer Property Assessed Clean Energy financing — check with your municipality.

5.3 Required Permits

5.4 Process Checklist

1. Get an EnerGuide pre-retrofit evaluation (~$300–600) — required for Greener Homes Loan.
2. Apply for the Canada Greener Homes Loan — get pre-approval.
3. Obtain an electrical permit from the City of Edmonton.
4. Hire a certified master electrician for grid-tied components.
5. Complete installation and schedule a Safety Codes inspection.
6. Apply for micro-generation status with your retailer.
7. Get a bi-directional meter installed by EPCOR.
8. Get an EnerGuide post-retrofit evaluation.
9. Submit documents for loan disbursement.

6. Step-by-Step Assembly Instructions

7. AI Brain Integration

7.1 Software Installation

SSH into your Raspberry Pi and run the following commands:

# Update system
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

# Install Python 3.12 and dependencies
sudo apt install -y python3 python3-pip python3-venv git

# Create project directory
mkdir -p ~/ireo && cd ~/ireo

# Create virtual environment
python3 -m venv venv
source venv/bin/activate

# Install Python libraries
pip install RPi.GPIO smbus2 adafruit-circuitpython-ina219 \
    w1thermsensor requests flask numpy

# Copy your brain.py to the Pi
# (via SCP from your main computer):
# scp brain.py pi@<pi-ip>:~/ireo/

7.2 Residential-Scale Configuration

The original brain.py is configured for a 2 MW / 4 MWh commercial system. You need to scale it down for residential use. Key changes:

# In brain.py — Modify the BatteryBank class __init__:
class BatteryBank:
    def __init__(self, capacity_kwh=15.0, max_power_kw=5.0):
        self.capacity_kwh = capacity_kwh       # 15 kWh (e.g., 4× Pylontech US3000C)
        self.max_power_kw = max_power_kw       # 5 kW max discharge
        self.soc = 0.65
        self.charge_efficiency = 0.95
        self.discharge_efficiency = 0.95
        self.cycle_count = 0.0
        self.min_soc = 0.10
        self.max_soc = 0.95

# In the SolarSystem class:
class SolarSystem:
    SOLAR_CAPACITY_KW = 8.0  # 8 kW residential array (e.g., 20× 400W panels)

    def __init__(self):
        self.price_engine = AESOPriceEngine()
        self.battery = BatteryBank(capacity_kwh=15.0, max_power_kw=5.0)
        self.seasonal = SeasonalCalculator()
        self.dispatcher = NeuralDispatcher(
            self.battery, self.price_engine, self.seasonal
        )
        self.revenue = RevenueTracker()
        self.tick_count = 0

    # ... also update HOLD passive charge threshold:
    # Change: if solar_kw > 100 → if solar_kw > 0.5
    # (original threshold was for MW-scale)

7.3 GPIO Control for Relays

Add this helper class to brain.py for controlling the relay module:

import RPi.GPIO as GPIO

class RelayController:
    """Controls 4-channel relay via GPIO."""
    PINS = {
        'solar_charge': 17,   # GPIO 17 — Pin 11
        'grid_export':  27,   # GPIO 27 — Pin 13
        'bat_discharge': 22,  # GPIO 22 — Pin 15
        'aux':          23,   # GPIO 23 — Pin 16
    }

    def __init__(self):
        GPIO.setmode(GPIO.BCM)
        for pin in self.PINS.values():
            GPIO.setup(pin, GPIO.OUT, initial=GPIO.HIGH)  # HIGH = relay OFF (active-low)

    def activate(self, relay_name):
        GPIO.output(self.PINS[relay_name], GPIO.LOW)

    def deactivate(self, relay_name):
        GPIO.output(self.PINS[relay_name], GPIO.HIGH)

    def execute_decision(self, decision):
        """Map AI decision to relay states."""
        # Reset all relays
        for pin in self.PINS.values():
            GPIO.output(pin, GPIO.HIGH)

        if decision == 'SELL':
            self.activate('bat_discharge')
            self.activate('grid_export')
        elif decision in ('CHARGE', 'PRE-CHARGE'):
            self.activate('solar_charge')
        # HOLD = all relays off

    def cleanup(self):
        GPIO.cleanup()

7.4 Connecting to Victron via Modbus TCP

If you have a Victron Cerbo GX, you can read real battery/solar data via Modbus TCP instead of using analog sensors:

from pymodbus.client import ModbusTcpClient

class VictronReader:
    """Read live data from Victron Cerbo GX via Modbus TCP."""
    def __init__(self, host='192.168.1.100', port=502):
        self.client = ModbusTcpClient(host, port=port)

    def read_battery_soc(self):
        result = self.client.read_holding_registers(266, 1, unit=100)
        return result.registers[0] / 10.0  # Returns SoC as percentage

    def read_solar_power(self):
        result = self.client.read_holding_registers(789, 1, unit=100)
        return result.registers[0]  # Returns watts

    def read_grid_power(self):
        result = self.client.read_holding_registers(820, 1, unit=100)
        return result.registers[0]  # Positive = importing, Negative = exporting

7.5 Running as a System Service

Create a systemd service so brain.py starts automatically on boot:

# Create the service file
sudo nano /etc/systemd/system/ireo-brain.service

[Unit]
Description=IREO Neural Dispatch Brain
After=network.target

[Service]
Type=simple
User=pi
WorkingDirectory=/home/pi/ireo
ExecStart=/home/pi/ireo/venv/bin/python3 /home/pi/ireo/brain.py
Restart=always
RestartSec=10
StandardOutput=journal
StandardError=journal

[Install]
WantedBy=multi-user.target

# Enable and start the service
sudo systemctl daemon-reload
sudo systemctl enable ireo-brain.service
sudo systemctl start ireo-brain.service

# Check status
sudo systemctl status ireo-brain.service

# View logs
journalctl -u ireo-brain.service -f

8. Dashboard Setup

8.1 Overview

The IREO dashboard (dashboard.html) provides a real-time web interface showing solar output, battery SoC, grid rates, AI decisions, and revenue tracking. It can be served from the Raspberry Pi on your local network.

8.2 Install a Web Server

# Install lightweight web server
sudo apt install -y nginx

# Copy dashboard files to web root
sudo cp ~/ireo/dashboard.html /var/www/html/
sudo cp ~/ireo/ireo-logo.png /var/www/html/

# Restart nginx
sudo systemctl restart nginx

Access the dashboard at http://<pi-ip-address>/dashboard.html from any device on your network.

8.3 Connect Dashboard to Live Data

To feed real-time data from brain.py to the dashboard, add a Flask API endpoint:

from flask import Flask, jsonify
import threading

app = Flask(__name__)
system = None  # Reference to the running SolarSystem instance

@app.route('/api/status')
def get_status():
    """API endpoint for dashboard to fetch live data."""
    return jsonify({
        'solar_kw': round(system.solar_output_kw(), 2),
        'battery_soc': round(system.battery.soc_pct, 1),
        'battery_kwh': round(system.battery.soc_kwh, 1),
        'price_mwh': round(system.price_engine.current_price_mwh, 2),
        'price_kwh': round(system.price_engine.price_kwh, 5),
        'decision': system.dispatcher.last_decision,
        'revenue': round(system.revenue.total_revenue_cad, 2),
        'kwh_sold': round(system.revenue.kwh_sold, 1),
        'season': system.price_engine.get_season(),
        'cycles': round(system.battery.cycle_count, 2),
    })

# Start Flask in a background thread
def start_api(sys_ref):
    global system
    system = sys_ref
    threading.Thread(
        target=lambda: app.run(host='0.0.0.0', port=5000),
        daemon=True
    ).start()

Then modify the dashboard JavaScript to fetch from this API every 2 seconds instead of using simulated data.

8.4 Remote Access (Optional)

9. Troubleshooting & FAQ

9.1 Common Issues

9.2 Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I install this entire system myself?

A: Not entirely. The low-voltage AI brain, sensor wiring, and off-grid battery testing are DIY-friendly. However, all grid-connected electrical work (solar panel wiring to the grid, inverter AC connections, and meter installation) must be done by a certified electrician in Alberta. This is a legal requirement under the Alberta Safety Codes Act.

Q: How much will I actually save per year?

A: The $2,840/year figure assumes a well-sized system (8 kW solar, 15 kWh battery) with 94.7% self-consumption in Edmonton. Actual savings depend on your electricity consumption, rate plan, solar exposure, and how aggressively the AI trades price spreads. Conservative estimate: $1,500–3,500/year.

Q: Does solar work in Edmonton's winter?

A: Yes, but output drops significantly. December–January production may be only 15–25% of summer output due to short days and low sun angle. The AI compensates by switching to a grid-arbitrage strategy (buy low overnight, use during peaks). Snow reflection (albedo effect) can actually boost output on clear winter days.

Q: What happens during a power outage?

A: With the Victron MultiPlus-II, your system can operate in off-grid mode, powering critical loads from the battery and solar. The switchover is automatic (within 20ms). However, current Alberta regulations require anti-islanding protection — consult your electrician about configuring this safely.

Q: How long do the batteries last?

A: Pylontech US3000C batteries are rated for 6,000 cycles to 80% depth of discharge (DoD). At one cycle per day, that's over 16 years. With the AI optimizing cycles, expect even longer life. Manufacturer warranty is typically 10 years.

Q: Can I expand the system later?

A: Yes. Both the Pylontech battery stack (up to 16 units) and the solar array can be expanded. You may need an additional MPPT controller for more panels. Any expansion to the grid-tied components requires a new permit and electrician visit.

Q: Is this system insurable?

A: Most home insurance policies cover properly permitted and inspected solar installations. Inform your insurer before installation. Unpermitted work may void your coverage. Get the Safety Codes inspection certificate and keep it on file.

10. Glossary

11. References & Resources

11.1 Suppliers (Canada / Edmonton)

11.2 Regulations & Standards

• Alberta Safety Codes Act: alberta.ca/safety-codes-act
• Canadian Electrical Code (CSA C22.1): csagroup.org
• Alberta Micro-generation Regulation (AR 27/2008): alberta.ca/micro-generation
• City of Edmonton Electrical Permits: edmonton.ca/business/permits
• EPCOR Interconnection: epcor.com

11.3 Government Incentives

• Canada Greener Homes Loan: nrcan.gc.ca
• Clean Technology Investment Tax Credit: canada.ca
• City of Edmonton — Change Homes for Climate: edmonton.ca

11.4 Equipment Manuals

• Victron MultiPlus-II Manual: victronenergy.com
• Victron SmartSolar MPPT Manual: victronenergy.com
• Pylontech US3000C Datasheet: pylontech.com.cn
• Raspberry Pi 5 Documentation: raspberrypi.com
• Canadian Solar HiKu6 Datasheet: canadiansolar.com

11.5 Tools & Calculators

• PVWatts Calculator (NREL): pvwatts.nrel.gov — Estimate solar production for your specific location.
• AESO Real-Time Pool Price: ets.aeso.ca — Live Alberta wholesale electricity prices.
• Victron VRM Portal: vrm.victronenergy.com — Free cloud monitoring for Victron systems.