It is time to extend the ESP32 Energy Meter project by adding AI! An AI model, trained with Edge Impulse, is able to detect in real time which appliances are running. In this article, we describe how to use data collected through Home Assistant and labeled with Python scripts to get to a model that can then be deployed on the ESP32-S3. After that, the microcontroller can classify loads like ACs, fans, heaters, and irons directly on-device. This project marks the first step toward intelligent energy monitoring!

ESP32 Energy Meter Project Update

In the previous update of the ESP32 Energy Meter series, we focused on integrating the hardware with Home Assistant and later moved to a custom MQTT firmware for more flexibility. The Energy Meter (Figure 1) itself continues to run reliably, and it has been genuinely rewarding to see how well the community has received this project. The positive feedback, build logs, and ideas shared by readers have been a great source of motivation to k...