Solar Power International heads back to Las Vegas, this year in the halls of the Mandalay Bay Convention Center. With so much to cram into your days, we thought we’d provide a list of things we’re looking forward to and a preview of what’s in store. Viva Las Vegas! Viva SPI!
Monday, Sept. 11
Run With the Sun 5K
7 a.m.
Meet at Sunset Park, or catch transportation from Mandalay Bay, to lace up your running shoes and enjoy some friendly competition outside the conference walls. It’s the third annual 5K event and all proceeds go to the SPI scholarship fund. Registration fees are $35 in advance, $40 onsite.
Cracking the big opportunity in small commercial solar
4 to 5 p.m., Room Lagoon B
The small commercial solar marketplace faces a variety of challenges, including high customer acquisition costs, lack of clear project criteria for developers, lack of credit rating for most private off-takers and the cost and availability of debt and tax equity financing for small projects. This session will provide an overview of common challenges, while simultaneously offering solutions on how to crack the big opportunity in the small- and medium-sized commercial space.
Block Party
7 to 10 p.m.
End day one of SPI right and join your colleagues for an exclusive networking party at Mandalay Bay Beach! The party is included with full conference registration, but other attendees may purchase a ticket during registration for $150. Food stations, beer and wine are provided. Hawaiian shirts, Bermuda shorts and sandals are encouraged.
Tuesday, Sept. 12
The intersection of solar and storage
8 to 9 a.m., Room Oceanside A
All SPI attendees are welcome to join this general session with speakers from Vivint Solar and Mercedes-Benz Energy Americas. These experts have analyzed the challenges of growing solar capacity and will discuss how they are working toward developing strong technological partnerships and collaborating to find the best solution.
Into the brave new world of consumer protection policy
11 a.m. to noon, Room Lagoon J
In the first few months of 2017, six states have introduced consumer protection bills that cover marketing and contracting in the residential solar industry.
Women in Solar luncheon
Noon to 1:30 p.m., Room Oceanside C
Hear from some of the most powerful women in solar as they give their executive insight on the latest trends that are impacting the industry, how they have adapted to these changes and their forecast of the industry’s future. Following the discussion, attendees will have the opportunity to connect with other industry professionals in an interactive session. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
Solar Power World’s Top Solar Contractor Chat: Residential and Commercial Installers
12:30 – 1:30 p.m., Installer Training Stage (Booth 4387)
Join the Solar Power World editors as we have a discussion with residential and commercial solar installers about the current market, present struggles and future projects. Participating panelists include Solect Energy, Standard Solar and SunPower by Stellar Solar.
Solar Power World’s Top Solar Contractor Chat: Utility-Scale Installers
1:30 – 2:30 p.m., Installer Training Stage (Booth 4387)
Again join the Solar Power World editors as we have a discussion, this time with utility-scale solar installers about the current market, present struggles and future projects. Participating panelists include Arraycon, Helix Electric and Inovateus Solar.
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