How to Use the OpenEI MCP in Cline

Tell Cline to build a rate analysis app. It'll use the OpenEI MCP server to fetch live utility data and write the code.

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Connect OpenEI MCP to Cline

Create your Vinkius account to connect OpenEI to Cline — we handle the hosting, security, and runtime updates so you don't have to. No server setup required.

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Setup OpenEI with Cline

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Generate Code with Live Rate Data

Stop mocking API calls for energy data. Tell Cline, 'Create a React component that takes an address and displays the utility rates.' It will use the `get_rates_by_address` tool to fetch real data and then write the actual component code for you. Cline doesn't just give you a code snippet. It creates the file, imports dependencies, handles the API call, and structures the component to display the results. You get a working file, not just an example.

Build Utility Intelligence Scripts

You can direct Cline to write scripts that use OpenEI data. For example, 'Write a Python script that takes a utility name, finds its ID with `search_utilities_by_name`, and then downloads all its tariffs using `get_utility_rates`.' Cline will generate the script, which you can then run to build a local database of utility tariffs. It turns a manual research project into an automated task that runs while you work on something else.

From Task to Pull Request with Cline

Cline handles the entire workflow. Give it a task, like 'Add a feature to compare residential TOU rates for a given zip code.' Cline plans the steps: use `get_residential_rates`, process the data, create a new UI component, write a test for it, and stage the files for commit. The OpenEI MCP connection provides the facts; Cline turns those facts into working software and presents you with the diff. This is the power of an autonomous agent connected to real-world data.

Setup guide

Set up OpenEI MCP in Cline

Prerequisites

VS Code with Cline extension installed
Active Vinkius subscription with a valid endpoint token

1

Open Cline MCP settings

Click the Cline icon in the VS Code sidebar to open the Cline panel. Then click the MCP Servers icon (server stack) at the top-right corner of the panel.
2

Add a remote server

Click "Remote Servers" at the top, then click "Add Remote MCP". In the Name field, type openei-mcp. In the URL field, paste your Vinkius endpoint: https://edge.vinkius.com/[YOUR_TOKEN_HERE]/mcp. Get your token from cloud.vinkius.com.
3

Enable the server

After saving, the server appears in the Cline MCP panel. Toggle the switch to enable it. The status indicator turns green when the connection is live.
4

Start using tools

Return to the Cline chat and ask: "Check my latest OpenEI refund status." Cline will discover the available tools and request your approval before invoking each one — giving you full control over every action.

Cline MCP Settings

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "openei-mcp": {
      "url": "https://edge.vinkius.com/[YOUR_TOKEN_HERE]/mcp"
    }
  }
}

Get your connection token →

Independent Platform Disclaimer: Vinkius is an independent platform and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, verified by, or otherwise authorized by OpenEI. All third-party trademarks, logos, and brand names are the property of their respective owners. Their use on this website is strictly for informational purposes to identify service compatibility and interoperability.

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Common questions about OpenEI MCP in Cline

You tell Cline what you want to build, and it uses the OpenEI tools to get the data. It can call `get_rates_by_coordinates` or `get_rates_by_address` and then write the front-end or back-end code that integrates that data directly into your application.

Yes. You can be specific in your instructions, like 'Fetch the industrial rates for this location using `get_industrial_rates` and format the output as a JSON file.' Cline will understand and execute the specific tool command.

It's simple. Open the Cline sidebar, go to the MCP Servers icon, and find OpenEI in the Marketplace tab. A single click installs and connects it. Your agent will have access to all the rate tools immediately.

The data comes directly from the OpenEI database, which is a solid starting point for initial analysis. However, remember there can be a lag between a utility filing a new rate and it appearing in the database. Always verify with primary sources for final, binding financial agreements.

No. Cline only sends the specific inputs required by the tool, like an address for `get_rates_by_address`. Your code, project context, and other files remain local and private.

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