Oregon Solar + Storage Conference 2025: Full Schedule

You will be able to validate your attendance (Check-In to sessions) using your personal schedule.

7:30am PDT

Breakfast hosted by EZ Solar Loans

Tuesday May 13, 2025 7:30am - 9:00am PDT

Belmont Foyer

A variety of breakfast items, coffee, and tea to get your morning started!

Tuesday May 13, 2025 7:30am - 9:00am PDT
Belmont Foyer

Activity

7:30am PDT

Networking in Expo Hall

Tuesday May 13, 2025 7:30am - 9:00am PDT

Belmont AB

Visit exhibitors, get your passport stickers, and network with your peers.

Tuesday May 13, 2025 7:30am - 9:00am PDT
Belmont AB

Networking

7:30am PDT

Registration

Tuesday May 13, 2025 7:30am - 9:00am PDT

Belmont Foyer

Tuesday May 13, 2025 7:30am - 9:00am PDT
Belmont Foyer

Registration

8:00am PDT

2023 NEC and Oregon-Specific Requirements for PV Systems

Tuesday May 13, 2025 8:00am - 12:00pm PDT

Windsor AB

This four-hour course will review the critical requirements for the proper installation of PV systems by the Oregon Electrical Specialty Code (OESC), which is based on NEC. The course will focus on significant changes made in the 2023 NEC. Articles reviewed include 690 – PV Systems and 705 - Interconnected Electrical Power Production Sources. The course’s target audience includes Oregon State-Certified Electricians, electrical contractors, electrical inspectors, building officials, engineers, and designers.
Topics Covered:

Article 690
- Revisions in 2023
- Circuit requirements
- Disconnecting means
- Wiring methods
- Grounding
- Markings
Article 705
Oregon-specific requirements (OSSC and ORSC codes)

Speakers

Ryan Mayfield

Founder, Mayfield Renewables

Ryan has been working in the renewable energy field since 1999 and founded Mayfield Renewables in 2007. Ryan has been widely known for his commitment to understanding and demystifying codes and standards for the PV and energy storage industry for decades. His career has blended technical... Read More →

Tuesday May 13, 2025 8:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Windsor AB

Technical, NABCEP CEU Session

Audience NABCEP

9:00am PDT

Energy Trust Program Updates & Market Intelligence

Tuesday May 13, 2025 9:00am - 9:25am PDT

Belmont C

Welcome to Solar Contractors Day!
Join Energy Trust for an in-depth session covering key program updates, best practices in design and installation, and upcoming changes that may impact your business. We’ll also share updates on Solar for All and Smart-E Solar+Storage financing and provide space for feedback to help shape future offerings. See you there!

Speakers

Shannon Wall

Project Manager - Renewable Energy, Energy Trust of Oregon

Shannon Wall started her position at Energy Trust managing the Trade Ally Network in August 2024. Prior to this role, Shannon worked with Energy Trust's Existing Buildings Program and as a project manager for a couple solar installation companies in Idaho and Oregon. She has an educational... Read More →

Nikita Chan

Associate Account Manager - Renewable Energy, Energy Trust of Oregon

Nikita Chan is an Associate Account Manager working with Energy Trust's Solar + Storage Program. She collaborates closely with Energy Trust’s solar + storage trade allies and provides support to the Solar team. She brings relationship building expertise from various roles and has... Read More →

Kyle Holmes

Account Manager - Renewable Energy, Energy Trust of Oregon

Kyle Holmes is an Account Manager working with Energy Trust of Oregon’s Solar Program. He works with Energy Trust’s solar trade allies and supports the larger Energy Trust Solar team. Kyle came to the Solar program from Energy Trust of Oregon’s Home Retrofit program in energy... Read More →

Jerry Henderson

Owner, Energy Assurance Company

Energy Assurance Company LLCServing the Solar Photovoltaic, Solar Thermal and Energy Storage Industries with Inspection Services, Code and Program Development, and Installer, Designer, & Consumer Education since 2006We work with Incentive Programs, Financing Partners, Code Agencies... Read More →

Zach Sippel

Sr. Program Manager, Energy Trust of Oregon

Zach Sippel is a Senior Program Manager at Energy Trust of Oregon where he leads the Solar for All program. His expertise spans construction management and installation across Minnesota, Colorado, and Oregon with projects ranging from custom residential solar pergolas to utility-scale... Read More →

Lori Lull

Program Manager - Renewables, Energy Trust of Oregon

Lori has worked at Energy Trust since 2023, taking on roles with solar trade ally management, consumer protection, financing, and solar for all. Prior to working at Energy Trust, she worked on renewable energy procurement for a large corporation. She has an MBA in Sustainable Business... Read More →

Exhibitors

Energy Trust of Oregon

Since 2002, Energy Trust has been helping people in Oregon and Southwest Washington live better through energy savings and clean energy solutions. As a nonprofit funded through customer utility bills, we don’t answer to shareholders or make decisions based on the bottom line. O... Read More →

Tuesday May 13, 2025 9:00am - 9:25am PDT
Belmont C

Energy Trust Programming

9:25am PDT

Technical Design & Installation Best Practices

Tuesday May 13, 2025 9:25am - 9:40am PDT

Belmont C

Speakers

Jerry Henderson

Owner, Energy Assurance Company

Tuesday May 13, 2025 9:25am - 9:40am PDT
Belmont C

Energy Trust Programming

9:45am PDT

Breakout Feedback Session

Tuesday May 13, 2025 9:45am - 10:15am PDT

Belmont C

Tuesday May 13, 2025 9:45am - 10:15am PDT
Belmont C

Energy Trust Programming

10:30am PDT

Solar for All Updates

Tuesday May 13, 2025 10:30am - 10:45am PDT

Belmont C

Speakers

Zach Sippel

Sr. Program Manager, Energy Trust of Oregon

Tuesday May 13, 2025 10:30am - 10:45am PDT
Belmont C

Energy Trust Programming

10:45am PDT

Smart-E Solar + Storage Financing

Tuesday May 13, 2025 10:45am - 11:00am PDT

Belmont C

Speakers

Lori Lull

Program Manager - Renewables, Energy Trust of Oregon

Tuesday May 13, 2025 10:45am - 11:00am PDT
Belmont C

Energy Trust Programming

11:00am PDT

Breakout Feedback Session

Tuesday May 13, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT

Belmont C

Tuesday May 13, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Belmont C

Energy Trust Programming

11:30am PDT

Energy Trust Wrap Up

Tuesday May 13, 2025 11:30am - 11:45am PDT

Belmont C

Tuesday May 13, 2025 11:30am - 11:45am PDT
Belmont C

Energy Trust Programming

12:00pm PDT

Lunch hosted by Schneider Electric

Tuesday May 13, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT

Belmont Foyer

Lunch is served in both the Belmont and Windsor foyers.

Tuesday May 13, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Belmont Foyer

Activity

12:00pm PDT

Networking in Expo Hall

Tuesday May 13, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT

Belmont AB

Visit exhibitors, get your passport stickers, and network with your peers.

Tuesday May 13, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Belmont AB

Networking

1:00pm PDT

Welcome to the Solar Career Expo

Tuesday May 13, 2025 1:00pm - 1:05pm PDT

Belmont C

Trying to find a job as a Limited Renewable Technician (LRT) or LRT apprentice? Looking for an LRT or apprentice to hire? Come meet potential employees and employers - learn about what the job entails, how to get it, and who's hiring.

Tuesday May 13, 2025 1:00pm - 1:05pm PDT
Belmont C

Solar Career Expo

1:00pm PDT

Oregon-Specific 2023 NEC and Fire Code Requirements for Energy Storage System

Tuesday May 13, 2025 1:00pm - 3:00pm PDT

Windsor AB

The two-hour solar-plus-storage course will teach participants the current codes and standards for photovoltaic (PV) systems that integrate energy storage systems. The course will cover NFPA codes, the standards referenced within those codes, and Oregon-specific requirements from the OSSC and ORSC. The course is intended for code electrical contractors, solar installers, building officials, engineers, and designers to better understand the current solar-plus-storage system requirements.
Topics Covered:

NEC 480, 690, 702, 705, 706
NFPA 855
IEEE and UL standards
Solar-plus-storage system configurations
Design and installation requirements for Code compliance

Speakers

Ryan Mayfield

Founder, Mayfield Renewables

Tuesday May 13, 2025 1:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Windsor AB

Technical, NABCEP CEU Session

Audience NABCEP

1:05pm PDT

Tips for Creating an Effective Resume

Tuesday May 13, 2025 1:05pm - 1:20pm PDT

Belmont C

Tips to make your resume stand out above the rest!

Speakers

Ursala Garbrecht

Resume Writer & Job Search Coach, Resume Horse

Ursala Garbrecht, Founder of Resume Horse, helps you uncover and articulate your unique strengths to potential employers to set you apart from the competition. With 15+ years of coaching experience and 10+ years in career services focused on resume writing, she is known for her collaborative approach that helps ensure the authent... Read More →

Tuesday May 13, 2025 1:05pm - 1:20pm PDT
Belmont C

Solar Career Expo

1:20pm PDT

How Can OSSIA Help Your Business Find New Talent

Tuesday May 13, 2025 1:20pm - 2:00pm PDT

Belmont C

Session details coming soon!

Speakers

Shakunda Murphy-Wilson

Program Director, OSSIA

Shakunda is a Midwesterner through and through. She moved to Portland in 2021 and started working in Tech. She worked for Alchemy Code Lab as the Career Development Director. While there, she focused strongly on promoting safety, collaboration, and an efficient culture, which led... Read More →

Tuesday May 13, 2025 1:20pm - 2:00pm PDT
Belmont C

Solar Career Expo

1:30pm PDT

Sales - Job Networking Meet-Up

Tuesday May 13, 2025 1:30pm - 2:00pm PDT

Windsor C

Whether you are looking to hire employees, find a job, or see what's out there, job-specific meetups offer informal opportunities for contractors and job seekers to meet face-to-face.

Tuesday May 13, 2025 1:30pm - 2:00pm PDT
Windsor C

Solar Career Expo

1:30pm PDT

Resume Appointments - Advanced appointment sign-up is strongly recommended

Tuesday May 13, 2025 1:30pm - 4:40pm PDT

Cambridge

We all know that searching for your next opportunity can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. Sign up HERE to secure a one-on-one resume appointment at the conference with Ursala, an experienced career and resume coach, to learn a few simple tricks to make you stand out and get that first interview.

If you are not able to secure one of the limited resume appointments at the conference, Ursala has generously offered registered attendees a discounted resume virtual one-on-one session at a later date in May. More details will be posted here and available at the conference registration desk at the start of the conference.

Speakers

Ursala Garbrecht

Resume Writer & Job Search Coach, Resume Horse

Tuesday May 13, 2025 1:30pm - 4:40pm PDT
Cambridge

Solar Career Expo

2:00pm PDT

Design - Job Networking Meet-Up

Tuesday May 13, 2025 2:00pm - 2:30pm PDT

Windsor C

Whether you are looking to hire employees, find a job, or see what's out there, job-specific meetups offer informal opportunities for contractors and job seekers to meet face-to-face.

Speakers

Sara Pavey

Renewable Energy Instructor, Clackamas Community College

Sara has been teaching renewable energy courses at Clackamas Community College since January, but prior to that, she designed residential and commercial solar systems for clients all over the US since about 2017. In addition to preparing solar plans, she’s worn many other hats in... Read More →

Tuesday May 13, 2025 2:00pm - 2:30pm PDT
Windsor C

Solar Career Expo

2:00pm PDT

What is the LRT Program and How Can my Company Get an Apprentice?

Tuesday May 13, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT

Belmont C

Session details coming soon!

Speakers

Erin Zygaitis

Program Manager / LRT Apprenticeship Administrator, OSSIA / OSEEF

Erin is not only a seasoned project manager but also an expert cat herder, boasting a wealth of experience across government, nonprofit, and for-profit sectors. Whether she's spearheading complex projects, refining processes, or rallying teams toward a shared objective, Erin is the... Read More →

Tuesday May 13, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Belmont C

Solar Career Expo

2:30pm PDT

Project Manager - Job Networking Meet-Up

Tuesday May 13, 2025 2:30pm - 3:00pm PDT

Windsor C

Whether you are looking to hire employees, find a job, or see what's out there, job-specific meetups offer informal opportunities for contractors and job seekers to meet face-to-face.

Speakers

Tina Kayser

Project Mananger, A&R Solar

Tina Kayser is a Project Manager at A&R Solar and has been with the company since 2017. She completed several training programs with Heatspring and SEI, and is also NABCEP certified. Additionally, Tina is a FranklinWH and Tesla certified installer.

Tuesday May 13, 2025 2:30pm - 3:00pm PDT
Windsor C

Solar Career Expo

3:00pm PDT

Rackers - Job Networking Meet-Up

Tuesday May 13, 2025 3:00pm - 3:30pm PDT

Windsor C

Whether you are looking to hire employees, find a job, or see what's out there, job-specific meetups offer informal opportunities for contractors and job seekers to meet face-to-face.

Tuesday May 13, 2025 3:00pm - 3:30pm PDT
Windsor C

Solar Career Expo

3:15pm PDT

OSSIA Programs and Benefits for Solar Workers

Tuesday May 13, 2025 3:15pm - 3:45pm PDT

Belmont C

Session details coming soon!

Speakers

Shakunda Murphy-Wilson

Program Director, OSSIA

Tuesday May 13, 2025 3:15pm - 3:45pm PDT
Belmont C

Solar Career Expo

3:15pm PDT

Designing the IronRidge BX System and the UL3741 Standard

Tuesday May 13, 2025 3:15pm - 4:15pm PDT

Windsor AB

In no particular order: Features of BX, background of UL3741, Our UL3741 listing and how to apply it to commercial installs, then designing a system, then finally, commercial services/support/engineering.

Speakers

Elizabeth Davis

Commercial Sales Manager, IronRidge

As Commercial Sales Manager at IronRidge, an Enstall company, Elizabeth supports distribution partners, developers, and solar integrators throughout the full lifecycle of their commercial projects. With over a decade of experience in the solar industry, she’s built her career on... Read More →

Exhibitors

Ironridge

IronRidge®, an Enstall® company, designs and manufactures structural hardware for residential and commercial solar systems. For over 20 years, we have worked closely with solar professionals to build strong, simple, and cost-effective products. Enstall, including IronRidge®, utilizes... Read More →

Tuesday May 13, 2025 3:15pm - 4:15pm PDT
Windsor AB

Technical, PENDING NABCEP

3:30pm PDT

Solar Project Logistics & Admin - Job Networking Meet-Up

Tuesday May 13, 2025 3:30pm - 4:00pm PDT

Windsor C

Whether you are looking to hire employees, find a job, or see what's out there, job-specific meetups offer informal opportunities for contractors and job seekers to meet face-to-face.

Tuesday May 13, 2025 3:30pm - 4:00pm PDT
Windsor C

Solar Career Expo

3:45pm PDT

How OSSIA Pre-Apprenticeship Programs Can Help Find New Workers

Tuesday May 13, 2025 3:45pm - 4:30pm PDT

Belmont C

Oregon has workforce organizations that can help you find your next employee! Pre-apprenticeship programs train folks to work in construction and do it safely, Worksystems helps connect you to trained workers, and Portland Workforce Alliance is training the workforce of tomorrow.

Come learn how to work with these great organizations to make your hiring process easier!

Moderators

Shakunda Murphy-Wilson

Program Director, OSSIA

Speakers

Trent Gay

Workforce, Urban League of Portland

Trent is a passionate and dedicated individual who will always do the best job possible for his clients. He prides himself on being a team player while also being capable of working on my own. His objective is to continue providing services to individuals with behavioral problems... Read More →

Susan Nielsen

Executive Director, Portland Workforce Alliance

Susan Nielsen is the Executive Director of the nonprofit Portland Workforce Alliance, which works with employers, postsecondary partners, and high schools to create and facilitate career exploration and early workforce development for youth ages 14-24. PWA programs include career... Read More →

Tonia Foster

Sr. Career Advisor & Retention Specialist, POIC Pre-Apprenticeship Training Program

Tonia Foster: Dedicated POIC Construction Pre-Apprenticeship Training Program Senior Career Advisor & Retention Specialist with over 15 years of experience. Tonia excels in guiding aspiring construction professionals, ensuring their success through comprehensive training programs... Read More →

Danny Van Voorhis

Career Services Manager, Portland Youth Builders

Danny Van Voorhis, Career Services Manager at Portland YouthBuilders, has more than fifteen years of experience working with diverse populations of disadvantaged youth in the classroom and with placement and retention support, including positions at PYB and New Avenues for Youth... Read More →

Daryl Lambert

Senior Project Manager-Clean Energy Sector, Worksystems, Inc

Clean Energy Sector lead at the Workforce Investment Board for the City of Portland, Multnomah County, and Washington County. Supporting the success of clean energy-related businesses by connecting them to the services of the public workforce development system

OJT Slides pptx

Tuesday May 13, 2025 3:45pm - 4:30pm PDT
Belmont C

Solar Career Expo

4:00pm PDT

LRT & Electricians - Job Networking Meet-Up

Tuesday May 13, 2025 4:00pm - 4:30pm PDT

Windsor C

Whether you are looking to hire employees, find a job, or see what's out there, job-specific meetups offer informal opportunities for contractors and job seekers to meet face-to-face.

Tuesday May 13, 2025 4:00pm - 4:30pm PDT
Windsor C

Solar Career Expo

4:30pm PDT

Networking & Happy Hour benefiting OSEEF

Tuesday May 13, 2025 4:30pm - 6:30pm PDT

White Owl Social Club (offsite)

Come join the fun and network while supporting the Oregon Solar Energy Education Fund! The White Owl Social Club is located at 1305 SE 8th Ave and SE Main St, approximately two miles from the conference hotel.

Tuesday May 13, 2025 4:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
White Owl Social Club (offsite) 1305 SE 8TH AVE & MAIN, PORTLAND, OR

Networking

7:30am PDT

Breakfast hosted by EZ Solar Loans

Wednesday May 14, 2025 7:30am - 9:00am PDT

Belmont Foyer

A variety of breakfast items, coffee, and tea to get your morning started!

Wednesday May 14, 2025 7:30am - 9:00am PDT
Belmont Foyer

Activity

7:30am PDT

Networking in Expo Hall

Wednesday May 14, 2025 7:30am - 9:00am PDT

Belmont AB

Visit exhibitors, get your passport stickers, and network with your peers.

Wednesday May 14, 2025 7:30am - 9:00am PDT
Belmont AB

Networking

7:30am PDT

Registration

Wednesday May 14, 2025 7:30am - 9:00am PDT

Belmont Foyer

Wednesday May 14, 2025 7:30am - 9:00am PDT
Belmont Foyer

Registration

8:00am PDT

Lithium-Ion BESS Safety, Codes, and Standards

Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:00am - 10:00am PDT

Windsor AB

Battery energy storage systems are key to the energy transition as well as much needed reliable resiliency needs. The PV industry is fairly mature but the energy storage industry is growing rapidly, with storage technologies, codes, and standards evolving. Storage related fire events raise significant and justified concerns within communities. It is important to understand the state of today's ESS technologies, current and expected updates to codes and standards, testing and requirements...all of which have safety implications. This is key to be able to make informed decisions about your development and guidance for your community customers as well as your jurisdiction and fire stakeholders. Join subject matter experts from engineering and education firm, Mayfield Renewables who will provide clarity on the real vs perceived risks of battery energy storage systems and provide insight on current and upcoming updates to related codes and standards.

Speakers

Tyson Bittrich

Market Research Analyst, Mayfield Renewables

Tyson is enthusiastic about the forthcoming energy transition and is excited to contributeto renewable energy solutions. Tyson calls Portland, OR, home, where he is finishing hisB.S. in Renewable Energy Engineering from Oregon Institute of Technology. His studiesfocus on electrochemical... Read More →

Ryan Mayfield

Founder, Mayfield Renewables

Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:00am - 10:00am PDT
Windsor AB

Technical, NABCEP CEU Session

Audience NABCEP

8:30am PDT

Selling You Price: Real-World Strategies to Help Escape the Price-Driven Sale

Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am PDT

Windsor C

Sales people, marketing people, and business owners - if you want to generate more sales and get proven strategies that preserve your profitability, this is the seminar for you.

SELLING YOU PRICE is an intense sales program designed to increase your sales effectiveness while maintaining the price you want and need to charge for the project. This seminar combines interpersonal and functional selling skills into a strategically-focused experience designed to reflect your business’s day-to-day challenges, opportunities, and competitive reality. Participants will learn:
• Learn how to develop the trust, credibility, and rapport necessary to turn prospects into committed customers who want to use you for their project.
• The importance of following a sales process and what needs to happen in the mind of the customer for them to want and agree to buy from you.
• Learn process models for making high-impact proposal presentations that get results and position you as the contractor of choice for their project.

Speakers

John DeRosa

Director of Contractor Training, SRS Distribution, Inc.

John works with individuals and organizations to amplify their sales effectiveness and confidence so they can exceed their individual and company goals. He coaches with passion, guiding his customers to effectively strengthen and elevate their sales outcomes to new levels of success.With... Read More →

Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am PDT
Windsor C

Sales / Marketing, NABCEP CEU Session

Audience NABCEP

9:00am PDT

Hot Topics at the Bonneville Power Administration

Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am PDT

Belmont C

The Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) is facing a sudden staffing cuts while dealing with unprecedented transmission constraints. On top of those issues, BPA has decided to join the Southwest Power Pool's day-ahead market, Markets+. How will these issues and BPA's day-ahead market decision impact solar development and integration? What are the downstream impacts?

Speakers

Sidney Villanueva

Attorney & Transmisson Expert, Blue Skies Law, LLC

Sidney Villanueva is a transmission attorney committed to advancing the clean energy transition with a healthy mix of creative ideas and straight talk. She founded Blue Skies Law, a full-service law firm dedicated exclusively to energy and public utility matters and mainly counsels... Read More →

Henry Tilghman

President, Tilghman Associates

Henry is a lawyer by training but prefers consulting. A graduate of Georgetown University and the Northwestern School of Law at Lewis & Clark College, Henry left his litigation practice in 2001 to assist PacifiCorp with Federal regulatory compliance and policy issues. He has served... Read More →

Mike Goetz

Regulatory Affairs Director, Renewable Northwest

Mike Goetz, our Regulatory Affairs Director, joined Renewable Northwest in January 2025. In his role, Mike is responsible for leading the development of the organization’s state regulatory and markets and transmission strategy in Oregon, Washington, Montana, and Idaho. Mike engages... Read More →

Randy Hardy

Principal, Hardy Energy Consulting

Randy Hardy provides strategic advice to utilities, wind/renewable generators, and other organizations in the current rapidly changing electricity environment. His experience has covered regulatory, legislative and transactional work, including thirteen years as CEO managing two large... Read More →

Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am PDT
Belmont C

Policy Focus, Pending CLE

10:00am PDT

Keynote - Smart Solar: The Opportunity for Distributed Power Plants in Oregon

Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:30am PDT

Belmont AB

Shannon Anderson is one of the nation's Virtual Power Plant (VPP) experts. She'll discuss what they are, the benefits to customers and the grid, and what solar contractors can expect if Oregon adopts VPP policies. We'll learn how other states have done it and how Oregon can use those best practices in our own programs.

Speakers

Shannon Anderson

Distributed Power Plant Policy Director, Solar United Neighbors

As a Distributed Power Plant Policy Director, Shannon supports SUN’s efforts to advance adoption of distributed power plants (DPPs for short, also known as Virtual Power Plants) around the country in a way that ensures consumer protections, equitable participation, and fair compensation... Read More →

Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:30am PDT
Belmont AB

Keynote

10:30am PDT

Networking in Expo Hall

Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 11:00am PDT

Belmont AB

Visit exhibitors, get your passport stickers, and network with your peers.

Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 11:00am PDT
Belmont AB

Networking

10:30am PDT

Sales Closing Clinic

Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm PDT

Windsor C

Asking for the sale is an essential part of every sales call, yet only a small percentage of salespeople are comfortable with the need to do this. THE CLOSING CLINIC focuses exclusively on the steps that must be taken for salespeople to earn the right to ask for the sale – and feel comfortable doing it.

Contractor salespeople will redefine their beliefs about closing and gain the “closer’s mindset” necessary to boost their closing percentages.

Specific Skills That Will Be Developed:
• The reasons why some salespeople struggle with this very natural part of the sales call -and how to know when you’ve earned the right to ask a closing question.
• The top five prerequisites that must be met before you ask a closing question.
• A very organic and professional way to ask a closing question and put the prospect in a position where they need to make a decision.
• Effective ways to neutralize the price objection and communicate your confidence in your selling price.
• Strategies that better enable them to respond to their most common objections, such as: “Your price is too high.”, “I want to think about it” and “I need to get additional estimates”.
• The importance of being prepared to answer the objection they will hear and being accountable for their outcomes.

Speakers

John DeRosa

Director of Contractor Training, SRS Distribution, Inc.

Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm PDT
Windsor C

Sales / Marketing, NABCEP CEU Session

Audience NABCEP

11:00am PDT

New Pathways for Siting Solar in Eastern Oregon

Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT

Belmont C

For the past year and a half OSSIA has engaged with dozens of stakeholders to create new "least conflict" siting pathways for solar in Eastern Oregon. Come learn how that Rules Advisory Committee went and the pros and cons of these new pathways.

Moderators

Dugan Marieb

Pine Gate Renewables

Founded in 2016, Pine Gate Renewables is a developer and owner-operator of utility scale solar and energy storage projects across the United States. We are dedicated to the innovative deployment of clean energy and have extensive experience in the development, financing, construction... Read More →

Speakers

James Williams

Executive Director, Community Renewables Energy Association

James Williams first ran for office in 2018 at the age of 29 while working as a lumber grader at Collins Pine Sawmill, and took office in January of 2019. He hopes to continue bringing a fresh perspective to the table in all matters we works on, strengthening ties across his county... Read More →

Olivier Jamin

Counsel, Davis Wright Termaine

Olivier Jamin provides legal advice to clients on environmental, energy, land use, and litigation matters. He makes sense of complex regulatory and legal permitting processes for his clients, working with them to identify a practical and sensical path to smart business decisions with... Read More →

Miranda Erlich

miranda@greenlightamerican.org, Greenlight America

Miranda is an accomplished grassroots organizer and team leader with a passion for clean energy. She was previously the Federal Field Director for the Sierra Club, where she led the Sierra Club’s field strategy for the Inflation Reduction Act. Miranda began her career in clean energy... Read More →

Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Belmont C

Policy Focus, Pending CLE

11:00am PDT

Navigating Uncertainty with Solar Financing

Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT

Windsor AB

This session focuses on solar financing in a high-interest rate environment, the rise of third-party ownership, and leveraging financing tools to navigate market uncertainty. Geared towards solar installers and marketing professionals.

Alex will share the current solar financing landscape and how existing tools can help installers navigate uncertain market conditions.

Speakers

Alex Atmore

Finance Specialist, Greentech Renewables

Based in Bend OR, Alex Atmore helps solar installers across the Pacific Northwest grow by leveraging frictionless financing programs with no dealer fees. Prior to his current role at Greentech Renewables, Alex has gained deep financing experience from his time at SunEdison, Spruce... Read More →

Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Windsor AB

Sales / Marketing

11:30am PDT

Wheres Waldo Meet-Up: Better Business Bureau

Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:45am PDT

Cambridge

Sponsors

Better Business Bureau

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is a nonprofit organization that promotes marketplace trust by providing business ratings, dispute resolution, and consumer education to promote ethical business practices and foster trust between businesses and consumers.

Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:45am PDT
Cambridge

Spotlight Talk

12:00pm PDT

Lunch hosted by Schneider Electric

Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT

Belmont Foyer

Lunch is served in both the Belmont and Windsor foyers.

Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Belmont Foyer

Activity

12:00pm PDT

Networking in Expo Hall

Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT

Belmont AB

Visit exhibitors, get your passport stickers, and network with your peers.

Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Belmont AB

Networking

12:30pm PDT

Spotlight Talk: SMART

Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:30pm PDT

Belmont AB

Sponsors

SMART

We specialize in Energy Efficiency, Indoor Air Quality & Project Development supported by multiple building trades national networks.

Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:30pm PDT
Belmont AB

Spotlight Talk

1:00pm PDT

Wheres Waldo Meet-Up: Loan Terra

Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:15pm PDT

Cambridge

Sponsors

LoanTerra

LoanTerra partners with ethical sources of financing to provide residential solar and storage loans with zero dealer fees.

Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:15pm PDT
Cambridge

Spotlight Talk

1:00pm PDT

The Future of Homebuilding has Solar and Storage

Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT

Windsor AB

Approximately one-third of all new homes in Oregon participate in the EPS New Construction program from Energy Trust of Oregon, and over 10% of them are built as solar-ready. With this market shift and increasing demand for resilience, the next frontier for Oregon builders is to incorporate installed solar + storage. You’ll hear about Energy Trust's New Homes offers for EV charging, solar, and storage features as well as how our research with both solar + storage consumers and installers informed a new solar + storage offering for energy efficient new homes. The information provided in this session will help you understand these new opportunities and incentives so you can work with established builders to install solar + storage in their homes.

Speakers

Jackson Miner Ehlers

Project Associate, Energy Trust of Oregon

Jackson Miner Ehlers is a Project Associate with a background in finance, data analysis, and sales. In his current role, Jackson provides analytical support for the Energy Trust of Oregon's EPS New Construction program, which offers incentives and training for above-code residential... Read More →

Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Windsor AB

Energy Trust Programming

1:00pm PDT

The New (Micro Grid) Frontier: Field Reports from the Wildfire West

Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT

Belmont C

Drawing on case studies and real-world project experience, this session will examine the key barriers to broader deployment of microgrids in Oregon. The panelists will then present fresh ideas on solutions to enable more widespread implementation of these important systems throughout the region.

Moderators

Shannon Souza

Principal & CEO, Sol Coast Consulting & Design

Since 1994, Shannon has pursued a career path in Sustainable practices for the PNW from my home base on the Oregon Coast.She began with pollution control, waste minimization, and environmental remediation with Weyerhaeuser Company's corporate office of the Environment, and then as... Read More →

Speakers

Karina Hershberg

Associate Principle, PAE

Karina is an Associate Principal at PAE, where she leads PAE’s Renewable Energy Systems team and is the regional leader for the Regenerative Design group. She brings a unique perspective to her dual roles in system analysis and engineering at PAE. Passionate about ensuring a transition... Read More →

Mark Crowdis

Chief Executive Officer, 127 Energy

Mark founded (2016) and leads 127 Energy with Pierre Moses the company's President. Mark has a leading role in identifying, planning, executing and financing renewable energy projects, from small commercial and industrial scale microgrids to complex utility scale projects exceeding... Read More →

Kevin Wright

President & Founder, ProtoGen

As President and Founder of ProtoGen, he is an energy resilience pioneer with nearly 30 years of industry experience. Beginning as an electrician in 1996 and achieving Master Electrician status by 2001, he founded ProtoGen in 2016, motivated by his firsthand experience during Hurricane... Read More →

Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Belmont C

Policy Focus, Pending CLE

1:00pm PDT

Sales Is Not A Spectator’s Sport

Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm PDT

Windsor C

Sales is nothing more than a series of definable and repeatable steps that anybody can learn but business owners and managers need to make sure their salespeople are executing and acting on those steps. If you want to build a world-class selling organization, you need to do less sales training and more sales coaching - no excuses. This informative session serves as a crash course to help business owners, managers, and salespeople learn the best practices for building a dynamic sales culture and the pitfalls to avoid when doing it.

Speakers

John DeRosa

Director of Contractor Training, SRS Distribution, Inc.

Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm PDT
Windsor C

Sales / Marketing, NABCEP CEU Session

Audience NABCEP

1:45pm PDT

Wheres Waldo Meet-Up: Mission Solar

Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:45pm - 2:00pm PDT

Cambridge

Sponsors

Mission Solar

Mission Solar Energy is a U.S.-based company dedicated to producing high-efficiency solar modules and providing renewable energy solutions to residential, commercial, and utility-scale markets. Founded in 2014 with a commitment to sustainability and energy independence, Mission Solar... Read More →

Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:45pm - 2:00pm PDT
Cambridge

Spotlight Talk

2:00pm PDT

Networking in Expo Hall

Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:30pm PDT

Belmont AB

Visit exhibitors, get your passport stickers, and network with your peers.

Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:30pm PDT
Belmont AB

Networking

2:30pm PDT

Wheres Waldo Meet-Up: SolarEdge

Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:45pm PDT

Cambridge

Sponsors

SolarEdge

SolarEdge is a visionary leader in smart energy technology, committed to harnessing the power of the sun to create a sustainable future. SolarEdge's DC-Optimized technology maximizes energy production, and drives innovation in energy storage and EV charging solutions for both residential... Read More →

Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:45pm PDT
Cambridge

Spotlight Talk

2:30pm PDT

Regulatory Highlights: Public Utility Commission Round-Up

Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT

Belmont C

What's happening at the Oregon Public Utility Commission and how does it impact your work? Panelists will discuss a range of PUC topics including interconnection delays, PURPA and avoided costs, implementation of HB 2021, and more.

Moderators

Alyssa Forest

Policy and Regulatory Affairs Director, OSSIA

Alyssa grew up in Sacramento, California, then moved to Oregon for college. She graduated with a B.S. in Natural Resource Law and Policy from Oregon State University in 2018. After moving to Portland, Alyssa worked as a claims adjuster for a few years. This experience, along with... Read More →

Speakers

Irion Sanger

Attorney, Sanger Greene

Mr. Sanger’s legal and consulting practice focuses on energy, administrative, and public utility law. He represents energy trade associations, municipalities, electric cooperatives, irrigation districts, end-use industrial and commercial consumers, investor owned natural gas and... Read More →

Rose Monahan

Staff Attorney, Environmental Law Program, Sierra Club

Rose Monahan is a staff attorney with Sierra Club's Environmental Law Program where she covers a wide range of environmental and energy law topics. She has represented Sierra Club in dozens of public utility proceedings in Oregon, Washington, Wyoming, Utah, California, and Arizona... Read More →

Ted Drennan

Energy Policy Analyst, Oregon Public Utility Commission

As an Energy Policy Analyst at the OPUC Ted works on multiple issues facing the utility industry. Topics related to electricity include interconnection modernization, PURPA, resource valuation, reliability, general rate case, as well as gas issues such as purchased gas adjustments... Read More →

Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Belmont C

Policy Focus

2:30pm PDT

Brighter Future with Solar: Navigating Tax Benefits and Incentives

Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT

Windsor AB

This session provides an overview and update of the Inflation Reduction Act energy incentives that are most applicable to the Oregon Solar community. Learn how these incentives are calculated and how they can be monetized by your customers to help offset the investment in green energy initiatives like solar, geothermal, and EV charging stations.

Understand the complexity of filing for these energy incentives and how your customers can maximize their investments and return on investment.

Learning Objectives*
• Participants will learn which energy incentives from the Inflation Reduction Act are most relevant.
• Participants will also learn how their customers, including tax-exempt organizations, monetize tax credits and incentives, and the process they go through.
• Participants will learn any new updates/changes to the investment tax credit for solar systems.

Speakers

Doug Kolker

CPA & Partner, Wipfli

Doug Kolker leads Wipfli’s energy incentives team, focusing on the energy incentives from the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. He is also responsible for the overall planning, organization, supervision and completion of client engagements. He has 20 years of experience working within... Read More →

Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Windsor AB

Sales / Marketing

2:30pm PDT

Battery Storage and the Rediscovery of Non-Firm Utility Service for New Large Loads

Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT

Windsor C

This session will discuss recent utility proposals for non-firm energy, the historical practice of utility curtailments, customer responses, and possible solutions. It will also address the legal issues, benefits, and challenges of providing and utilizing this interruptible energy service.

Electric utility load projections have skyrocketed over the last few years. Traditional “duty to serve” utilities are desperate to find creative ways to meet this new demand while still complying with their renewable resource mandates and greenhouse gas limits. Fueled by mounting requests to power new data centers and clean tech manufacturing and restrained by transmission limits, climate initiatives, the intermittency of solar and wind generation, and a load curve that peaks just as the sun goes down, utilities are looking to revive and repackaging the practice of offering non-firm, interruptible, service for new large loads. Something that was more compatible with aluminum factories and paper mills that could shut down production lines or ramp up cogeneration, non-firm service allows a utility to curtail large customers during peak demand to balance the grid. Unlike these industries of old, however, this new large demand cannot just shut down, and running traditional diesel backup generation would violate climate-driven requirements. A possible solution is battery storage, charged during off-peak hours, and used to bridge the gap during utility curtailments.

Speakers

Garrett Stephenson

Shareholder, Schwabe

Garrett Stephenson is a shareholder in the Portland law office of Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt. Garrett Stephenson’s natural resource and energy practice focuses on project planning, risk reduction, and permitting. He has ‎substantial experience in electrical transmission and... Read More →

Bill Ohle

Shareholder, Schwabe

Bill Ohle brings a strong industry background to representing public utilities and industries in state and federal regulatory matters. Before joining Schwabe, he served as in-house counsel for a publicly owned electrical, water and wastewater utility company. Currently, Bill represents... Read More →

Neerav Jashnani

Principal, Segue Sustainable Infrastructure

Neerav brings nearly a decade of renewable energy project finance and M&A experience to the team at Segue with experience across all asset classes, representing over 1 GW and over $1b of transaction value. He joins from the Infrastructure Investment team at Greenbacker Capital where... Read More →

Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Windsor C

Technical

3:30pm PDT

Networking in Expo Hall

Wednesday May 14, 2025 3:30pm - 4:00pm PDT

Belmont AB

Visit exhibitors, get your passport stickers, and network with your peers.

Wednesday May 14, 2025 3:30pm - 4:00pm PDT
Belmont AB

Networking

4:00pm PDT

Wheres Waldo Meet-Up: Wipfli

Wednesday May 14, 2025 4:00pm - 4:15pm PDT

Cambridge

Sponsors

Wipfli

Wipfli is a top 25 advisory and accounting firm with over 90 years of experience helping businesses like yours grow and thrive. With energy tax incentives at the forefront of many business decisions, we help organizations significantly reduce project costs, providing long-term financial... Read More →

Wednesday May 14, 2025 4:00pm - 4:15pm PDT
Cambridge

Spotlight Talk

4:00pm PDT

Legal Ethics in the Energy Industry: Navigating Common Conflicts and Communication Issues for Attorneys

Wednesday May 14, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT

Windsor AB

Session details coming soon!

Moderators

Sara Sayles

Shareholder, Schwabe

Sara Sayles is a real estate lawyer who focuses on utility-scale renewable energy development. She assists clients with all phases of development, beginning with site control, obtaining land use entitlements, and negotiating ancillary agreements. Sara has obtained land use entitlements... Read More →

Speakers

Ken Pearson

Associate, Schwabe

An environmental, real estate, and land use lawyer, Ken Pearson, advises on large- and small-scale projects. He helps clients buy, sell, permit, and grow their energy and natural resource operations. Ken grew up on an island in Southeast Alaska, where he acquired his lifelong love... Read More →

Nellie Barnard

Shareholder, Schwabe

Nellie Barnard provides legal ethics and risk management advice to lawyers, law firms, law students, and in-house legal departments. She also represents Oregon and Washington lawyers in attorney discipline matters and character and fitness proceedings, including on appeal. With a... Read More →

Wednesday May 14, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Windsor AB

Policy Focus, Pending CLE

4:00pm PDT

The Future of Oregon’s RFP Process

Wednesday May 14, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT

Windsor C

Oregon's Request for Proposals (RFP) Process is at a crossroads: recent litigation, ongoing PUC rulemakings, and state clean energy targets are forcing change in the RFP process. Past RFP processes and mistakes have convinced regulators that Oregon is indeed facing a problem when it comes to competition in the RFP process, and current rulemakings are opening the doors for RFP reform. How can the RFP process be improved?

Moderators

Amy Berg Picket

Principal, Developer, Sunstone Energy

Amy has a BS in sustainability from Oregon State University that led to 10 years working in Utility Solar Scale development. The focus of this work is in the Northwest with a focus on Oregon. Amy is a Permitting and Stakeholder engagement specialist for solar farm development. Amy... Read More →

Speakers

Dugan Marieb

Pine Gate Renewables

Max Greene

Attorney, Sanger Greene

Max Greene is a partner in the law firm Sanger Greene PC, where he represents clients on matters related to the clean energy transition in the Northwest and provides advice to nonprofits, trade associations, and electricity generators, among others. Max previously served as Deputy... Read More →

Marie Barlow

In-House Counsel, Policy & Regulatory Affairs, NewSun Energy

Marie Barlow is an energy regulatory and policy attorney with deep knowledge in resource planning and procurement, interconnection, transmission, and climate change policy. Marie brings a unique blend of analytical precision and creative problem solving to her work and aims to empower... Read More →

Wednesday May 14, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Windsor C

Policy Focus

4:00pm PDT

Tribal Renewable Energy Transition: Collaborations in Oregon

Wednesday May 14, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT

Belmont C

This panel will cover current and planned Tribal renewable energy transition projects, programs, and partnerships with Oregon Tribes. Topics will include utility scale solar and storage partnerships, transmission upgrades, workforce development, energy sovereignty, and collaborating on siting to protect cultural and natural resources.

Moderators

David Harper

Executive Officer & Tribal Liaison, 7Skyline

David has more than 30 years of experience in Indigenous governance, cultural preservation, and policy development. As an executive officer and Tribal liaison for 7Skyline, he has led Tribal outreach efforts for utility-scale solar and energy storage projects with more than 50 Tribes... Read More →

Speakers

Cathy Ehli

Executive Director, Warm Springs Power & Water Enterprises

Nearly 25 years of executive and senior executive experience in the electric utility industry. Across several positions, Cathy has provided leadership in the development of strategies to achieve broad organizational goals. Cathy's strategic leadership has also advanced specific initiatives... Read More →

Stone Hudson

Program Officer to Tribal Communities, Meyer Memorial Trust

Stone aims to use his lived experience to make impactful and lasting change within his community.Stone unexpectedly started his career in government and policy. While in that space, he refined his role to focusing on tribal relations and has spent much of his time focusing on creating... Read More →

Kevin Lo

Corporate Sustainability Distinguished Technologist, HP

Interesting facts about Kevin Lo:• Passionate about sustainability, circular economy, reducing carbon, and social justice opportunities. • Conceptual Car Designer, known for the Local Motors LM3D Swim featured at SEMA.• Licensed Professional Engineer in the state of Washing... Read More →

Wednesday May 14, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Belmont C

Policy Focus

5:00pm PDT

Happy Hour & Networking hosted by Platt Electric & Franklin WH

Wednesday May 14, 2025 5:00pm - 6:30pm PDT

Belmont Foyer

Stay and enjoy the fun with networking, hosted appetizers, and beverages!

**Franklin WH will host an Old Fashion cocktail**

**Platt Electric will host a Lemon Drop cocktail**

Wednesday May 14, 2025 5:00pm - 6:30pm PDT
Belmont Foyer

Networking

7:00am PDT

Breakfast hosted by EZ Solar Loans

Thursday May 15, 2025 7:00am - 9:00am PDT

Belmont Foyer

A variety of breakfast items, coffee, and tea to get your morning started!

Thursday May 15, 2025 7:00am - 9:00am PDT
Belmont Foyer

Activity

7:00am PDT

Networking in Expo Hall

Thursday May 15, 2025 7:00am - 9:00am PDT

Belmont AB

Visit exhibitors, get your passport stickers, and network with your peers.

Thursday May 15, 2025 7:00am - 9:00am PDT
Belmont AB

Networking

7:00am PDT

Registration

Thursday May 15, 2025 7:00am - 9:00am PDT

Belmont Foyer

Thursday May 15, 2025 7:00am - 9:00am PDT
Belmont Foyer

Registration

7:30am PDT

Goat Yoga hosted by Greentech Renewables

Thursday May 15, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am PDT

Fireside Plaza Atrium

Come enjoy this unique yoga experience with goats. Yoga mats will be provided. This fun event will take place in the Fireside Plaza adjacent to the Belmont Foyer. Please sign up HERE.

Sponsors

Greentech Renewables

Greentech Renewables strives to be the most trusted distributor in the renewable energy industry, providing customers with the tools, resources, and services to design, finance, sell, and install PV and energy storage solutions efficiently and cost-effectively. As Greentech Renewables... Read More →

Thursday May 15, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am PDT
Fireside Plaza Atrium

Activity

9:00am PDT

Federal Policy Updates: Tariffs to Tax Credits.

Thursday May 15, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am PDT

Belmont C

From the tariff changes to tax credits and incentives, the federal energy policy landscape is shifting drastically and quickly. Come hear national policy experts discuss the latest on federal clean energy policy and legislation.

Moderators

Ryan Sheehy

Founder & President, Fleet Development

Ryan Sheehy founded Fleet Development to build a bridge between the renewable energy and multifamily affordable housing industries. The idea for the company’s mission came after finishing a 20-year career with the Marines, moving back to Eastern Oregon, and joining the top-tier... Read More →

Speakers

Erin Duncan

Vice President of Congressional Affairs, SEIA

Erin Duncan is SEIA’s Vice President Of Congressional Affairs where she leads SEIA’s congressional affairs team in their work to influence energy, tax, trade, appropriations and other policies in support of the solar industry.Prior to joining SEIA, Erin spent eleven years as a... Read More →

M. John Way

Shareholder, Schwabe

John Way is passionate when it comes to all things taxes and offers a unique perspective on tax and estate planning law. Whether assisting businesses or individuals, he guides clients through the labyrinth of federal and state tax regulations, estate and succession planning, and business... Read More →

Philip Shen

Managing Director, Senior Research Analyst - Cleantech, Roth Capital

Philip Shen is a Managing Director, Senior Research Analyst at ROTH, specializing in equity research coverage of the cleantech sector, focusing on renewables. Since 2010, he has established a strong reputation and network within the industry, allowing him to stay at the forefront... Read More →

Thursday May 15, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am PDT
Belmont C

Policy Focus, Pending CLE

9:00am PDT

Public Speaking Tactics for High-Impact Presentations

Thursday May 15, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am PDT

Windsor C

Presentations are more than just words on a slide—it’s your chance to move your audience to action. But too often, presentations fall flat because the delivery doesn’t match the message. This workshop will help you bridge that gap.

During this workshop, you’ll learn how to prepare like a pro, deliver with confidence, and keep your audience hooked from your first word to your final call to action. Whether you’re pitching, presenting, or leading, this session will give you tools to elevate your public speaking.

By the end of this workshop, participants will:
Understand the roots of public speaking anxiety and effective methods to manage it.
Learn insider tips and tricks for grabbing attention and keeping it.
Practice speaking in a safe space to build confidence and refine your style.
Feel empowered to deliver clear, compelling, and confident presentations.

Speakers

Spenser Meeks

Principal & Presentation Consultant, Apex Presentations

Presentation consultant, Spenser Meeks works with individuals and organizations to amplify their communication, connection, and confidence so they can make a lasting impact on the world. He mentors with passion, effectively strengthening and elevating messaging to new heights.

Thursday May 15, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am PDT
Windsor C

Sales / Marketing

9:00am PDT

The Business Case for Residential Solar-Plus-Storage

Thursday May 15, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am PDT

Windsor AB

A lot has been written and said about the benefits of residential solar-plus-storage, but are these benefits real? Does residential solar-plus-storage really make economic sense, or are the many claimed benefits just a lot of marketing hype? To find out, come to our talk and participate in our discussion of the business case for residential solar-plus-storage.

Speakers

Virgil Beaston

Chief Technology Officer, QPO Energy, Inc.

Virgil Beaston is currently the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of QPO Energy and the former Senior Vice President & CTO of Powin Energy. He has more than 17 years of experience in the battery energy storage industry and is often asked to speak publicly as a subject matter expert... Read More →

Thursday May 15, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am PDT
Windsor AB

Sales / Marketing

10:00am PDT

Legislative Keynote: The Sun is Shining on Oregon's Energy Future

Thursday May 15, 2025 10:00am - 10:30am PDT

Belmont AB

An update on the Oregon Energy Strategy and other activities at the Oregon Department of Energy

Speakers

Janine Benner

Director, Oregon Department of Energy

Janine joined ODOE in February 2017 as our Assistant Director for Planning and Innovation, and was named agency Director by then-Governor Brown and confirmed by the Senate in February 2018. As director, she provides leadership and policy direction to the department’s 120+ employees... Read More →

Thursday May 15, 2025 10:00am - 10:30am PDT
Belmont AB

Keynote

10:30am PDT

Networking in Expo Hall

Thursday May 15, 2025 10:30am - 11:00am PDT

Belmont AB

Visit exhibitors, get your passport stickers, and network with your peers.

Thursday May 15, 2025 10:30am - 11:00am PDT
Belmont AB

Networking

11:00am PDT

Consumer Protection Comes to Oregon

Thursday May 15, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT

Belmont C

OSSIA members worked with consumer protection advocates, state agencies and local utilities to craft consumer protection legislation for Oregon. We hope to see this legislation to come forward in 2026 - come learn what to expect!

Moderators

Aby Jaeger

Program Manager, Solar Oregon

Abygale Jaeger is a passionate program manager with a deep commitment to driving positive change through education, community engagement, and sustainability initiatives. Currently serving as Program Manager at Solar Oregon, Abygale leads the development and execution of educational... Read More →

Speakers

Anders Alexander

VP of Business Development, LoanTerra

Anders Alexander completed a degree in economics, ecology, and environmental policy from Western Washington University. He has worked for SolarCity (now Tesla), Sungevity, A&R Solar, Blossom Solar, Resound Energy, EagleView, and he currently works for the fintech LoanTerra as VP of... Read More →

Chris Coughlin

Policy Director, Oregon Consumer Justice

Chris Coughlin (she/her/hers) is the Policy Director for Oregon Consumer Justice (OCJ). Chris has extensive policy, advocacy, non-profit and coalition management, communications, and outreach experience, working with community-based organizations, businesses, and political campaigns... Read More →

Reeves Clippard

Chief Strategic Officer & Co-Founder, A&R Solar

Thursday May 15, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Belmont C

Policy Focus, Pending CLE

11:00am PDT

Timing is Everything: How to Make Dynamic Rates Work for Installers

Thursday May 15, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT

Windsor AB

Discussion of how the introduction of TOU and other more dynamic rates (particularly with residential/small commercial) can be leveraged to improve customer economics, particularly in cases with electrification, storage, load flexibility. Focus will be on the practical application of tools in the field, drawing from experience both in Oregon and elsewhere. The panel will include a diverse set of speakers and cover best practices both for installers and utilities on how to work together better for the good of customers.

A broad audience should find value in this presentation, including installers, program managers, and policy makers. Learning objectives will include: understanding what tools exist to better model dynamic rates, what technologies and/or installation practices best leverage those rates, how utilities/policy makers can improve the design and support of these rates.

Moderators

Josh Keeling

Chief Growth Officer, UtilityAPI

Josh Keeling is the Chief Growth Officer at UtilityAPI. Previously, he served as the Senior Vice President of Product and Market Development when he joined in 2023. Before joining UtilityAPI, he held leadership roles at Generac, LO3 Energy, and Portland General Electric, where he... Read More →

Speakers

Rachel Bryant

Sr. Director of Regulatory & Policy Business Development, GridX

Rachel Bryant is the Senior Director of Regulatory and Policy Business Development at GridX. She is responsible for overseeing regulatory and legislative work and leads GridX's efforts with policy makers, utilities, regulators and legislators. Prior to joining GridX, Rachel worked... Read More →

Erik Holvik

Director of Corporate Development & Strategy, EnergySage

Erik Holvik is the Director of Corporate Development & Strategy at EnergySage where he leads new business ventures and partnerships for EnergySage. Erik has been with EnergySage for over four years working with contractors, manufacturers, software companies, educational institutions... Read More →

Audrey Burkhardt

Manager of Energy Storage & Resilence Solutions, Portland General Electric

Audrey Burkhardt serves as Resilience and Energy Storage Portfolio Manager for Portland General Electric (PGE). Audrey’s team develops and manages customer programs that tackle the twin imperatives of electric sector decarbonization and increased resilience for Oregonians grappling... Read More →

Thursday May 15, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Windsor AB

Policy Focus

11:00am PDT

Best Practices in Lithium Battery Installation

Thursday May 15, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT

Windsor C

This session will cover:
1) Battery Storage System Design, Safety and Maintenance.
2) Installers and other interested parties.
3) How to safely design and install a battery-based energy system in a home or commercial environment. Common components used. Safety precautions.

Speakers

Michael Wight

Sales Application Engineer, Discover Energy Systems

Michael Wight serves as a Sales Application Engineer at Discover Energy Systems, bringing over two decades of hands-on experience in the residential and commercial solar industry. Previously a highly respected installer with Gardner Energy, Mike honed his expertise in grid-tied and... Read More →

Thursday May 15, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Windsor C

Technical, PENDING NABCEP

12:00pm PDT

Lunch hosted by Schneider Electric

Thursday May 15, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT

Belmont Foyer

Lunch is served in both the Belmont and Windsor foyers.

Thursday May 15, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Belmont Foyer

Activity

12:00pm PDT

Networking in Expo Hall

Thursday May 15, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT

Belmont AB

Visit exhibitors, get your passport stickers, and network with your peers.

Thursday May 15, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Belmont AB

Networking

1:00pm PDT

Bringing Solar to New Construction Commercial Projects with Energy Trust of Oregon

Thursday May 15, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT

Windsor AB

Learn how Energy Trust of Oregon supports the addition of solar to commercial new construction projects early in the design process. We will provide an overview of how Energy Trust interacts with architects, engineers and building owners to incorporate energy efficient design and solar into their projects - and how Energy Trust Solar Trade Allies can get involved.

Speakers

Beth Offensend

Outreach Manager, New Buldings Program, Energy Trust of Oregon

Beth works with K-12 and higher education customers to help them hit their building performance goals. She has worked in sustainability and commercial energy efficiency for over 15 years and previously worked as a writer and editor for architecture and construction related trade publications... Read More →

Thursday May 15, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Windsor AB

Energy Trust Programming

1:00pm PDT

Making Virtual Power Plants a Reality in Oregon

Thursday May 15, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT

Belmont C

Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) have the potential to unlock clean energy and energy efficiency for the benefit of both customers and the grid. Come hear what PGE and Pacificorp have planned, what other states are doing, and what we hope to achieve in Oregon.

Moderators

Kyle Armitage

Manager, Greentech Renewables

Kyle Armitage is a manager at Greentech Renewables in Portland. He has been with Greentech Renewables for 6 years and worked for a solar installation company prior to that. Kyle is passionate about solar energy and being a part of the latest industry trends and developments.

Speakers

Shannon Anderson

Distributed Power Plant Policy Director, Solar United Neighbors

Franco Albi

Director Regional Intergration, Portland General Electric

Franco Albi is the Director Regional Integration at Portland General Electric. His portfolio includes Strategy Integration and Virtual Power Plant deployment. His team is responsible for accelerating PGE’s customer programs to market and integrating operational capabilities to increase... Read More →

William Comeau

Vice President of Customer Experience & Innovations, PacificCorp

William Comeau is the Vice President of Customer Experience and Innovations for Rocky Mountain Power. His portfolio includes customer service, large customer management, and customer programs such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, electric vehicles and demand response. Bringing... Read More →

Thursday May 15, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Belmont C

Policy Focus

1:00pm PDT

Trust is Power: Charging-Up Buyer Confidence in the Solar Industry

Thursday May 15, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT

Windsor C

"In this 'electric' session, you’ll learn how trust can fuel growth and how a lack of trust can short out confidence. What businesses truly earn and maintain trust with their communities? How do they stand out in a crowded market and avoid common industry pitfalls? And how can you identify and report bad actors who misrepresent the solar industry in a negative light?

You'll walk away from this interactive talk with practical insights, examples, and tools you can use to build stronger relationships, boost your reputation, and connect with consumers who are actively looking for trustworthy solar businesses like yours."

Speakers

Carmeron Nakashima

Media Engagement & Digital Campaigns Manager, Better Business Bureau

Cameron Nakashima leads the consumer-centric media engagement and digital strategy for Better Business Bureau Great West + Pacific (BBB GWP). As a frequent on-camera spokesperson, Cameron has appeared on local news stations across BBB GWP's eight-state region, helping businesses and... Read More →

Thursday May 15, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Windsor C

Sales / Marketing

about Cameron Nakashima leads the consumer-centric media engagement and digital strategy for Better Business Bureau Great West + Pacific. As a frequent on-camera spokesperson, Cameron has appeared on local news stations across BBB GWP's eight-state region, helping businesses and consumers navigate issues of trust in today’s marketplace.<br><br>With a background in corporate communication and marketing, Cameron specializes in turning complex topics into clear, engaging messages. He speaks with business owners and communities about building trust, earning customer confidence, and the value of partnering with trusted businesses -- especially when involving large investments, such as PV systems.

2:00pm PDT

Twende Solar Update

Thursday May 15, 2025 2:00pm - 2:15pm PDT

Belmont AB

Hear what is new with Twende Solar and how they bridge the gap between renewable energy experts and economically marginalized communities with a need for a reliable, affordable source of clean energy to power their work

Speakers

Robin Swanhuyser

Executive Director, Twende Solar

Robin joins Twende Solar with ten years of experience in nonprofit operations and logistics, event production, community engagement, and international development. Prior to joining Twende Solar, Robin was the Program Director at the Biennial of the Americas, where she managed events... Read More →

Thursday May 15, 2025 2:00pm - 2:15pm PDT
Belmont AB

Spotlight Talk

2:15pm PDT

Networking in Expo Hall

Thursday May 15, 2025 2:15pm - 2:30pm PDT

Belmont AB

Visit exhibitors, get your passport stickers, and network with your peers.

Thursday May 15, 2025 2:15pm - 2:30pm PDT
Belmont AB

Networking

2:30pm PDT

Update on Solar for All Funding

Thursday May 15, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT

Windsor AB

The Oregon Department of Energy, together with partners Energy Trust of Oregon and Bonneville Environmental Foundation, were awarded an $86.6 Million Solar for All Grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to support renewable energy adoption for low-income Oregonians. The session provides an update on the development of the program.

Speakers

James Cogle

Incentive Programs Operations Policy Analyst, Oregon Department of Energy

Zach Sippel

Sr. Program Manager, Energy Trust of Oregon

Patrick DePriest

Community Solar Senior Program Manager, Bonneville Environmental Foundation

Patrick joined BEF in Fall 2024 as the Community Solar Senior Program Manager to facilitate community solar project development throughout Oregon's consumer-owned utility territories as part of the federal Solar For All program. Prior to joining BEF, Patrick worked with the State... Read More →

Thursday May 15, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Windsor AB

Policy Focus

2:30pm PDT

What's Happening at the Oregon and Washington Legislatures?

Thursday May 15, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT

Belmont C

Washington's legislative session has just ended and there is just over a month left in Oregon's Legislative session. What are our hopes and expectations for Oregon? What can we look forward to in Washington? Hear directly from Oregon Legislators on what this session has in store for solar.

Moderators

Angela Crowley-Koch

Executive Director, OSSIA

Angela Crowley-Koch has spent the last two decades in public policy and advocacy as has been the Executive Director at OSSIA since 2018. Previously the Legislative Director at Oregon Environmental Council, her work was instrumental in passing the Toxic-Free Kids Act, renewing the... Read More →

Speakers

Phaedra Beckert

Executive Director, WASEIA

Phaedra Beckert serves as the Executive Director of the Washington Solar Energy Industries Association (WASEIA), where she leads the organization's efforts to advocate for and advance solar energy across Washington State. With a strong background in policy and stakeholder engagement... Read More →

Rep. Ken Helm

Representative House District 27, Oregon State Legislature

Ken Helm is the State Representative for Oregon House District 27, including the City of Beaverton and nearby communities. Among his legislative duties, he serves as Co-Chair of the House Committee on Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources, and Water, as well as a member of the... Read More →

Rep. Darcey Edwards

Representative House District 31, Oregon State Legislature

State Representative Darcey Edwards is a lifelong resident of Northwest Oregon, a small business owner, and a dedicated community advocate. Raised in House District 31, she brings decades of experience and a deep commitment to serving the people of Columbia, Multnomah, and Washington... Read More →

Thursday May 15, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Belmont C

Policy Focus, Pending CLE

2:30pm PDT

What is the LRT Program and How to Get an Apprentice?

Thursday May 15, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT

Windsor C

Session details coming soon!

Speakers

Erin Zygaitis

Program Manager / LRT Apprenticeship Administrator, OSSIA / OSEEF

Thursday May 15, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Windsor C

Solar Career Expo

4:00pm PDT

Happy Watt-Hour! Benefiting Twende Solar

Thursday May 15, 2025 4:00pm - 6:00pm PDT

10 Barrel Brewing

Join us from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm at 10 Barrel Brewing for Twende Solar's annual Happy Watt-Hour following the Oregon Solar + Storage Conference. Please stop by for a beer, network and mingle with members of our solar community, learn about Twende Solar's upcoming projects, and check out silent auction items up for bidding! All proceeds from the event will go towards powering Twende Solar's work to expand renewable energy access worldwide. Hope to see you there!

10 Barrel Brewing is located at 1411 NW Flanders Street, Portland, OR 97209, approximately 1.5 miles from the conference hotel.

Thursday May 15, 2025 4:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
10 Barrel Brewing 1411 NW Flanders Street, Portland, OR 97209

Networking