I recently came across the JuicePassProxy Add-On for Home Assistant, and I must say, it’s been a revelation! For anyone looking to control their JuiceBox EV charger without relying on the cloud, this add-on is a fantastic solution. Here’s my experience and some tips for those considering it:
Why I Chose JuicePassProxy
I’ve always been cautious about cloud dependencies, especially for something as critical as an EV charger. The idea that JuicePassProxy allows 100% local control without any internet access for the charger is brilliant. Plus, it’s reverse-engineered, meaning no need to modify the charger itself—just some simple DNS or NAT rules on your router.
Setting It Up
I was initially a bit nervous about setting up the NAT rules, but the instructions provided for OPNSense were clear and easy to follow. If you’re using a different router, the developer welcomes PRs for additional guides, which shows great community support.
How It Works
Once everything is set up, the JuiceBox thinks it’s communicating with the cloud, but it’s actually talking to JuicePassProxy. This proxy then forwards all data to Home Assistant via MQTT. The best part? All data stays local, which is a huge plus for privacy and reliability.
Tips for Success
- Start Simple: Begin with the basic setup and test it thoroughly before adding more complex rules or automations.
- Check Logs: If you run into issues, the logs in Home Assistant are invaluable for troubleshooting.
- Community Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out in forums or on GitHub. The community is active and helpful.
My Experience
After setting it up, I was amazed at how seamless it was. My EV charger now integrates perfectly with my smart home ecosystem, allowing me to monitor and control it directly from the Home Assistant dashboard. It’s given me peace of mind knowing my charger is fully integrated without any external dependencies.
If you’re looking to enhance your smart home setup with local EV charging control, I highly recommend checking out the JuicePassProxy Add-On. It’s a fantastic example of how open-source innovation can solve real-world problems!
Happy charging! 
