Mark your calendars and don't miss the largest Solar Conference for Installers & Dealers in the Northeast!
The 2020 altE Solar Conference will be held on February 24-26, at the Devens Common Center in Devens, MA.
This annual conference continues to grow each year and will once again feature industry-leading Vendors in an expanded exhibit area and over 30 hands-on training seminars and workshops - many of which will qualify for NABCEP Continuing Education credits.
This years event will be held at the Devens Common Center in Devens, MA. The Devens Common Center is a convenient 45 minute drive from Boston and is located just 15 minutes from our Boxborough, MA headquarters and warehouse. Manchester Airport, New Hampshire and TF Green Airport, Rhode Island are just an hour drive from Devens. For more information on the Devens Common Center, please click here.
With more Vendors and Exhibitors, more training sessions and more fun - we look forward to seeing you at the 2020 altE Installer Conference!
Click on the links in the blue bar below to see more Conference details.
altE is pleased to invite you to our 9th annual Solar Conference to be held February 24, 25 and 26, 2020. This event will provide you the ability to see new products, receive hands-on training and meet the solar and renewable energy industry's leading vendors and manufacturers.
Registration:
Main Conference Dates:
Tuesday and Wednesday, February 25 -26, 2020.
Just $249 for the 2-DAY show.
Conference Location: Devens Common Center, Devens, MA. For more information, please click on the LOCATION tab in the blue bar above.
See the latest technology and products to help your business and stay ahead of your competitors in our Exhibit and Trade Show area. We have the industry leading Vendors and Manufacturers displaying the most current and cutting edge products available in the market today in our Exhibition area. Not only will you get the chance to see and learn about the latest products first hand, you'll have plenty of time to interact with the Vendors and Manufacturers directly during the exhibit hours.
With over 30 different breakout sessions, you'll find a wide variety of opportunities to see the latest products, learn new techniques and qualify for NABCEP Continuing Education credits. Attendees may choose the session they wish to attend with no pre-registration. With this many options you can easily select the sessions that best fit your areas of interest.
We've specifically designed our agenda to provide ample opportunity to meet with Vendors and Manufacturers to learn about the latest products and get hands-on information to help grow your business. In addition, you'll have the opportunity to network with Installers across the country to share information and ideas regarding business best practices, marketing trends and other ways to increase and expand your profits!
Back by popular demand, we will have a Beginners Track for Installers new to Solar, presented by altE - Intro to Solar Grid Tie and Battery Backup. Just getting your business started up? Have new employees who need to be trained in the basics of solar power? This is the workshop for you. Learn valuable principles about the components in grid tie solar systems, off-grid solar, and grid tied solar with battery backup. We learn how to calculate the size of the system equipment needed for all 3 types of solar systems. We cover some NEC requirements to ensure a code compliant installation. There will also be complete pre-wired systems to view, mounting options for roofs, and much more!
Topics Covered:
Solar System Types
Electricity Basics
Solar Panels
Grid tied Array sizing
Grid Tied Inverters
Breaker sizing (NEC 702.12)
Panel Mounts and Flashing
Batteries
Bank sizing for off-grid
Off grid solar array sizing
Charge Controllers
Off Grid and Hybrid Inverters
Adding Batteries to Grid-tied
OverCurrent Protection
Breakers and Wire Sizing
Note: this class is not IREC accredited and will not earn NABCEP credits.
We are pleased to also bring back the extra day of 2020 National Electric Code update training! Sean has just finished writing a book, “PV and the 2020 NEC” (in production) and will compare and contrast the 2017 and 2020 versions of the NEC. This training will be a 6-hour training day dedicated to code updates - and will qualify for 6 hours of NABCEP CE credits. Taught again by Sean White!
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The 2020 altE Solar Conference will be held February 24, 25 and 26, 2019 at the Devens Common Center in Devens, MA.
Devens Common Center
31 Andrews Parkway
Devens, MA 01434
For additional information about the Devens Common Center - click here
We have secured special pricing for selected rooms for the conference at two local hotels at the Conference Center. Conference attendees are responsible for making their own lodging reservations directly with the hotel.
For Room Reservations, please contact either the Hilton Garden Inn or SpringHill Suites by Marriott located conveniently at the Devens Common Center. **Please mention "Alternative Energy" for discount rates. Click on hotel links below to book special pricing online.
59 Andrews Parkway, Devens, MA
1-978-772-0600 or 1-888-370-0984
SpringHill Suites by Marriott
27 Andrews Parkway, Devens, MA
1-978-772-3030 or 1-844-845-2263
We have secured special pricing for selected rooms for the conference at the Hilton Garden Inn. Conference attendees are responsible for making their own lodging reservations directly with the Hilton Garden Inn at 1 (978) 772-0600 or 1-888-370-0984. **Please mention "Alternative Energy" for discount rates.
We have secured special pricing for selected rooms for the conference at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott. Conference attendees are responsible for making their own lodging reservations directly with the SpringHill Suites by Marriott at 1 (978) 772-3030 or 1-844-845-2263. **Please mention "Alternative Energy" for discount rates.
Devens, MA is located 45 minutes North West of Boston, MA. To get directions, please click here.
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Seminars marked with an * count as one hour of NABCEP Continuing Education Credits.
Times |
Monday, February 24, 2020
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ADVANCED Track- Experienced Installers | BEGINNERS Track - Installers new to Solar | |
9:30 - 10:00 |
Registration
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9:30 - 10:00 |
Coffee, Continental Breakfast
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10:00 - 12:30 |
*** PV and 2020 NEC: Sean White - 2014 IREC Master Trainer of the Year |
Intro to Solar Grid Tie and Battery Backup: altE |
12:30 - 1:00 |
Lunch Break
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1:00 - 4:30 |
*** PV and the 2020 NEC: Sean White - 2014 IREC Master Trainer of the Year |
Intro to Solar Grid Tie and Battery Backup: altE |
5:00 - 6:00 | Cash Bar Cocktail Hour / Appetizers |
Tuesday, February 25, 2020
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8:00 - 9:00 |
Registration
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8:00 - 9:00 | Coffee, Continental Breakfast, in Exhibit area | ||
8:45 - 9:00 | Sascha Deri - CEO - Welcome Speech |
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9:00 - 10:00 |
Blue Sky Energy: |
*SimpliPhi Power: Battery Chemistry 101 & Introduction to SimpliPhi Energy |
Q Cells: Benefits of AC Solar Panels |
10:00 - 10:15 |
Break in Exhibit Area
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10:15- 11:15 | Victron Energy: Smart Solar DC Charge Controllers |
*Sol-Ark: Fast & Affordable Storage with Sol-Ark All-In-One Pre-Wired Hybrid Inverter System |
*S-5! Direct Attach vs. Rail Mount -Solar Roof Mounts for Metal Roofs |
11-15 - 11:30 |
Break in Exhibit Area
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11:30 - 12:30 | *IronRidge: Advanced Pitched Roof Installations & IronRidge Design Assistant |
*Outback Power: Learn to Specify A Turnkey SystemEdge UL 9540 Certified Energy Storage System (ESS) |
Idenergy: Hybrid Battery Inverter for Grid-Tied Storage Applications |
12:30 - 2:00 | Lunch in Exhibit Area | ||
2:00 - 3:00 | Crown Battery: Energy Storage Training |
*Schneider Electric: Gateway & Conext Insight 2 Monitoring Platform |
MT Solar: Cantilevered Carports for Smaller Projects. Our New Design + Your Feedback = AWESOME!
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3:00 - 3:15 | Break in Exhibit Area | ||
3:15 - 4:15 | *Midnite Solar: Rapid Shutdown and Updates to NEC 690.12 |
Trojan Battery: Choosing The Right Battery For Your Renewable Energy Application
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*Morningstar Corporation: Get to know the newest technology in the MultiWave advanced solar inverter/charger |
4:15 - 4:30 | Break in Exhibit Area | ||
4:30 - 5:30 | KiloVault by altE: KiloVault Solar Batteries |
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5:30 - 7:30 | Dinner Reception in Exhibit Area with Cocktail Hour |
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7:30 - 9:30 |
Post Reception DJ/Trivia Party @ Hilton |
Wednesday, February 26, 2020
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8:00 - 9:00 |
Registration
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8:00 - 9:00 |
Coffee, Continental Breakfast in Exhibit Area
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9:00 - 10:00 | Blue Sky Energy: Blue Sky Energy Solar Controllers Meet Bluetooth! |
*SimpliPhi Power: SimpliPhi I.Q. Advanced Training Module: Understanding Charge, Discharge and State of Charge |
*Outback Power: Discover OutBack’s Newest Solutions to Meet NEC 2017 |
10:00 - 10:15 |
Break in Exhibit Area
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10:15- 11:15 | *Sol-Ark: Battery Technologies Compared |
*Schneider Electric: XW Pro AC v DC Coupling - Part 1 |
Tamarack Solar: |
11-15 - 11:30 |
Break in Exhibit Area
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11:30 - 12:30 | Victron Energy: MultiPlus and Quattro Inverter/Chargers |
*Schneider Electric: XW Pro AC v DC Coupling - Part 2 |
Trojan Battery: Battery 101 -- Flooded vs. AGM vs. GEL vs. Lithium
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12:30 - 2:00 |
Lunch in Exhibit Area
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2:00 - 3:00 |
Crown Battery: |
Q Cells: Q Home Residential Storage Systems |
*Midnite Solar: DC Power Systems |
3:00 - 3:15 | Break in Exhibit Area | ||
3:15 - 4:15 |
KiloVault by altE: |
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4:15 - 4:30 | Break in Exhibit Area | ||
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Seminars marked with an * count as one hour of NABCEP Continuing Education Credits.
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Seminars marked with an * count as one hour of NABCEP Continuing Education Credits.
10:00 - 4:30 -
PV And The 2020 NEC: Sean White - The 2014 IREC Master Trainer of the Year ******
This workshop will be jam-packed with new 2020 NEC insight and interpretation. Sean teaches PV courses around the world and has authored 4 books, the most recent being "PV and The 2020 NEC" (in production). Sean will fill you up with as much information as possible in one day, while entertaining you at the same time. He will compare and contrast the 2017 NEC to the 2020 NEC, with special emphasis on the rapid shutdown and interconnection requirements of the Code.
6 hours NABCEP Training.
10:00 - 4:30 -
Intro To Solar Grid Tie And Battery Backup: altE
Just getting your business started up? Have new employees who need to be trained in the basics of solar power? This is the workshop for you. Learn valuable principles about the components in grid tie solar systems, off-grid solar, and grid tied solar with battery backup. We learn how to calculate the size of the system equipment needed for all 3 types of solar systems. We cover some NEC requirements to ensure a code compliant installation. There will also be complete pre-wired systems to view, mounting options for roofs, and much more!
Topics Covered:
Solar System Types
Electricity Basics
Solar Panels
Grid tied Array sizing
Grid Tied Inverters
Breaker sizing (NEC 702.12)
Panel Mounts and Flashing
Batteries
Bank sizing for off-grid
Off grid solar array sizing
Charge Controllers
Off Grid and Hybrid Inverters
Adding Batteries to Grid-tied
OverCurrent Protection
Breakers and Wire Sizing
9:00 - 10:00 - Blue Sky Energy: Off-Grid Systems - What Can Go Wrong and How to Fix It
Join Blue Sky Energy in an interactive discussion about troubleshooting an off grid solar installation.
9:00 - 10:00 -*SimpliPhi Power: Battery Chemistry 101 & Introduction to SimpliPhi Energy
With demand for on- and off-grid solar+storage deployments increasing, it's essential to understand the various battery chemistries available and how chemistry matters when it comes to safety, reliability, performance, and choosing the right battery for every application. Join experts from SimpliPhi Power for a discussion that includes: Important form factor and lithium ion chemistry considerations when designing your energy storage system. The advantages of Lithium Ferro Phosphate (LFP) - from efficiency to levelized cost of energy (LCOE) to warrantied cycle life. SimpliPhi product line overview & updates - including the Express and High Voltage C&I (Commercial and Industrial) products. System sizing and installation, and more.
9:00 - 10:00 - Q Cells: Benefits of AC Solar Panels
This session reviews the basics of an AC Solar Panel, meaning a panel that produces line “Plug in the wall” Power, versus standard DC, constant current PV power. Where to use one and why, trade offs and advantages and disadvantages compared. Group discussion and experience encouraged.
10:15- 11:15 - Victron Energy: Smart Solar DC Charge Controllers
Come join our session and learn about Victron's line of SmartSolar MPPT charge controllers. Learn about the benefits of each, along with programming and monitoring capabilities via. Bluetooth and the Internet.
10:15- 11:15 - *Sol-Ark: Fast & Affordable Storage with Sol-Ark All-In-One Pre-Wired Hybrid Inverter System
Learn about the multiple methods of reducing install time with a Sol-Ark 12K Hybrid inverter via: AC coupling, DC coupling with two 500V MPPT’s, built in DC/AC breakers, user wiring area, 120/240/208V, stacking systems, and new rapid shutdown solutions. Additionally, we will go over key features such as built in load management for reducing battery sizes by 50%, using batteries On-Grid to zero the meter with CT’s, and online monitoring tools to best use your self-generated power.
10:15- 11:15 -*S-5! Direct Attach vs. Rail Mount -Solar Roof Mounts for Metal Roofs
In this session with S-5!, you'll learn why direct attach on exposed fastened roofs is more effective than rails. We'll go over the pros of the new PV Kit 2.0, as well as rail mounts, and the common objections when using them on metal roofs. Installation techniques and tips, along with the ease of layout, will also be discussed in the this training session.
11:30 - 12:30 -
*IronRidge: Advanced Pitched Roof Installations & IronRidge Design Assistant
IronRidge presents the in’s and out’s of working on different types of pitched roofs, how to solve common problems in design and construction, and how to utilize mounting products to reduce overall material and labor costs. Selecting the right mount for the job, installation tips & tricks, waterproofing methods, designing a system with the free online Design Assistant software, and
using manufacturer documentation to streamline permitting.
11:30 - 12:30 - *Outback Power: Learn to Specify A Turnkey SystemEdge UL 9540 Certified Energy Storage System (ESS)
Discover how easy it is to specify a turnkey SystemEdge UL 9540 ESS using the latest sizing tool from OutBack. Typical back-up loads are preloaded into the tool or customize for a specific application. Just click a button to show one or more viable SystemEdge packages. The String Sizing tool is then used to determine the best PV array to go with your SystemEdge package. Where to install field wiring , how to load pre-configured settings file, along with commissioning are also discussed.
11:30 - 12:30 -Idenergy: Hybrid Battery Inverter for Grid-Tied Storage Applications
Idenergy’s
grid-tied battery charger allows batteries to be charged/discharged
from a solar installation or the utility grid. The system allows the
stacking of more modules for increased capacity and combining battery
banks of different ages and chemistries, as well as adapt to different
BMSs. Designed to charge from 0 to 300 VDC, it makes charging fully
discharged batteries possible. It can also deliver grid-edge services
and help monetize generated energy during peak hours.
Lunch with time to walk the show floor
2:00- 3:00 - Crown Battery: Energy Storage Training
Since 1926, Crown Battery has been a first class manufacturer of lead batteries in the United States—supplied to the World. Learn how the best batteries are made in the most modern, state of the art assembly plant in the world located in Fremont, Ohio—and determine the Crown Battery difference. This presentation will provide you with the guidelines for charging best practices, testing and maintenance for renewable energy systems.
2:00- 3:00 - *Schneider Electric: Gateway & Conext Insight 2 Monitoring Platform
Take solar monitoring to the next level with our new Gateway and Insight2. This monitoring platform provides features that our customers have been eagerly awaiting, including WiFi communications and access to Conext device settings thru the cloud. This session will equip installers to make informed decisions about product selection and why it pays to “keep it all Schneider Electric".
2:00- 3:00 - MT Solar: Cantilevered Carports for Smaller Projects. Our New Design + Your Feedback = AWESOME!
Small scale carport projects can be challenging to engineer and source. Most carports on the market are not available or practical for smaller projects. Poles must be out the way of car doors. MT Solar's new cantilevered carport design will address these issues while focusing on ease of installation. Can we still build it on the ground and lift it up? (yes, we plan to but no hoist!) Foundations are going to be large for cantilevered carport designs, it is a fact of nature. Expect a lot of concrete, but let us make the rest of the project fast, easy, and aesthetically pleasing. We plan to debut our new design in this presentation, and we welcome your feedback to make this be the perfect solution to your project needs.
3:15 - 4:15 - *Midnite Solar: Rapid Shutdown and Updates to NEC 690.12
Midnite Solar will be discussing the changing rules of NEC 690.12 and SunSpec protocol. We will cover complications of multi-inverter installations avoiding crosstalk.
3:15 - 4:15 - Trojan Battery: Choosing The Right Battery For Your Renewable Energy Application
This training will compare differences in battery technologies and how they impact your renewable energy battery system. This technology overview will educate and help users make better decisions when selecting batteries for their RE application. We will discuss safety and environmental concerns, maintenance requirements, characteristics and performance of each battery chemistry that Trojan offers. A model will be reviewed so you can determine the true return on your battery investment.
3:15 - 4:15 - *Morningstar Corporation: Get to know the newest technology in the MultiWave advanced solar inverter/charger
Morningstar’s MultiWave high-frequency inverter/charger represents the next-generation in power conversion technology, combining low-frequency stability and surge capability with the proven advantages of high-frequency design: lighter weight for easier installation, and more agile and efficient electronics. It is expandable with add-on modules for generator operation, relay controls, advanced battery functions and more. MultiWave also has superior charging capability, making it an ideal platform for use with advanced batteries including lithium types. This session covers the features and advantages of the Multiwave as well as setup and commissioning of its various modes of operation.
4:30 - 5:30 - KiloVault by altE: KiloVault Solar Batteries
Come learn about altE's newest line of KiloVault batteries! In this session, we will go over all of our different lines under the KiloVault name, including our new HAB 7.5 kWh LiFePO4 Battery Storage System. Also learn about our new CHLX Cold-Rated Lithium battery line, and much more!
4:30 - 5:30 -
4:30 - 5:30 -
9:00 - 10:00 - Blue Sky Energy: Blue Sky Energy Solar Controllers Meet Bluetooth!
An introduction and overview of Blue Sky Energy's NEW Bluetooth accessory and mobile app for multi-controller monitoring and data collection.
9:00 - 10:00 -*SimpliPhi Power: SimpliPhi I.Q. Advanced Training Module: Understanding Charge, Discharge and State of Charge
Join SimpliPhi for an advanced I.Q. training module to explore best practices related to charging, discharging and state of charge. Beyond SimpliPhi’s basic set point recommendations, learn how you can use advanced operations and charge settings to align with modes of operation to help your customer achieve precisely the energy storage system performance they are seeking. Topics will include: How to use voltage to understand a PHI battery's state of charge. Using state of charge to facilitate and inform programming and integration. How to properly program for charging. Important steps to avoid over-discharging.
9:00 - 10:00 - *Outback Power: Discover OutBack’s Newest Solutions to Meet NEC 2017
The new FM100-300VDC-AFCI and Skybox inverter with direct PV input have built-in rapid shutdown, ground and arc fault detection that allows for a much simpler and cost effective NEC 2017 compliance solution. Rapid shutdown options for both IMO and Tigo for FM100-300VDC-AFCI and Skybox are reviewed in detail.
10:15- 11:15 - *Sol-Ark: Battery Technologies Compared
The cost of batteries are several times the costs of electronics. In this session, we will look at the cost/KWh of different battery chemistries, warranties, type of usage, and sizing batteries for the need. We will also look at methods to reduce the battery size/cost by 50%. We will also briefly look at how inverter efficiency plays a significant role in overall costs.
10:15- 11:15- *Schneider Electric: XW Pro AC v DC Coupling- Part 1
When it comes to residential solar, one size does not fit all. Learn how the versatility and reliability of XW Pro can help you grow your business and lead to a higher level of customer satisfaction. We will explore the expanded feature set of our Rule21 compliant XW Pro and provide design considerations that will enhance the knowledge of the exceptional installer.
10:15- 11:15 - Tamarack Solar: NEW! Flush Mount Rooftop Racking System
Offering the first major improvement in railed system technology in many years, Tamarack’s rail based FM system is easy to install, extremely intuitive and can be used with any off-the-shelf roof attachment. Various snow and wind ratings can be met with the two profiles available. The FM System offers multiple innovative assets including: excellent wire management, using the open rail channels for module and MLPE wiring, single tool installation and easy to handle 10.5-foot and 7-foot rails. Shorter rail lengths facilitate easier shipping, transportation, stocking, and handling. Kits made with 7-foot rails can be shipped via UPS!
11:30 - 12:30 - Victron Energy: MultiPlus and Quattro Inverter/Chargers
Come join our session and learn about Victron's line of MultiPlus and Quattro Inverter/Chargers. Learn about the benefits of each, along with available options and functionality, including system sizing.
11:30 - 12:30 -*Schneider Electric: XW Pro AC v DC Coupling- Part 2
When it comes to residential solar, one size does not fit all. Learn how the versatility and reliability of XW Pro can help you grow your business and lead to a higher level of customer satisfaction. We will explore the expanded feature set of our Rule21 compliant XW Pro and provide design considerations that will enhance the knowledge of the exceptional installer.
11:30 - 12:30 - Trojan Battery: Battery 101 -- Flooded vs. AGM vs. GEL vs. Lithium
Trojan Battery discusses the main differences between battery types and their unique manufacturing processes. Learn about battery selection, charging guidelines, system sizing and proper maintenance. Gain an understanding of battery capacity ratings, cycle life expectations and how field conditions affect battery life and performance. In addition, learn about Trillium®, Trojan’s Intelligent Lithium which delivers superior performance with more than 5000 cycles, has sophisticated electronics, and is fully self-protected
Lunch with time to walk the show floor
2:00 - 3:00 - Crown Battery: Battery Energy Storage Systems—Lead Batteries or Alternative Technologies
Understand your options and how to make an honest assessment before you determine which batteries are best. Determine the facts about the energy storage options that are available—and know what the misperceptions are, despite positive press and marketing gimmicks. Make sure you are getting your money’s worth with your energy storage investment—this presentation will give you the tools to make the right decision for your energy storage solution.
2:00 - 3:00 - Q Cells: Q Home Residential Storage Systems
This session reviewed the basics of adding a home storage system and covers choices including AC or DC Coupling and adding in resilience (power back up during a power outage) options in the market and pros and cons versus a standard fossil fuel back-up generator. Group discussion and experience encouraged.
2:00 - 3:00 - *Midnite Solar: DC Power Systems
Midnite
will discuss their charge controller lineup, inverters and balance of
system items and how to pick the proper one for your install.
3:15 - 4:15 - KiloVault by altE: KiloVault Solar Batteries
Come learn about altE's newest line of KiloVault batteries! In this session, we will go over all of our different lines under the KiloVault name, including our new HAB 7.5 kWh LiFePO4 Battery Storage System. Also learn about our new CHLX Cold-Rated Lithium battery line, and much more!
3:15 - 4:15 -
3:15 - 4:15 -
Seminars marked with an * count as one hour of NABCEP Continuing Education Credits.
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