Solarplaza Summit | Asset Management North America

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Tuesday 9 April 2024

Program Day 1


08:00

Registration & Welcome Coffee

45 min.


08:45

Welcome Remarks by the Chairperson

presentation

25 min.

Edwin Koot

Solarplaza

Rob Andrews


Session 1

Perspectives and Outlooks on a Dynamic Solar Landscape

09:10

A Look Back at The Last Solar Decade - Past, Present and Future of the US Solar Industry

presentation

35 min.

Embark on a journey exploring the evolution of solar energy over the past decade, gaining insights into cutting-edge technologies and unprecedented policy changes shaping the future of sustainable energy. Learn how to stay ahead in the transition toward a cleaner and brighter energy landscape with this illuminating panel.

Tony Seba

RethinkX


09:45

Solar and Storage O&M Market Outlook

presentation

30 min.

This presentation will provide a concise inventory of North America's current solar capacity, an analysis of the Inflation Reduction Act's impact on our solar future, and a sneak peek into the growth forecasts for 2024. Explore trends in technology deployment, storage integration, and Operations & Maintenance, gaining valuable insights into the evolving landscape of solar energy in North America.

Leila Garcia da Fonseca

Wood Mackenzie

Aaron Marks

CEA - Clean Energy Associates


10:15

Bringing the Solar Workforce to the Next Level

panel

45 min.

During this discussion, we will spotlight the critical aspect of workforce development. Explore innovative strategies, training programs, effective case studies, and initiatives aimed at nurturing a skilled workforce that can meet the demands of this rapidly growing sector.

moderator

Zack Townsend

Luminace

Andreas Karelas

RE-VOLV

Annette Roberts Webb

University of California Merced

Kimberly Tran

Origis Services

Mark Culpepper

WFDS


11:00

Morning Networking Break

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Session 2A

New Dynamics in O&M

11:45

O&M Automation: The Rise of Robots

panel

45 min.

Extreme weather events, labor shortages, emissions containment, and carbon sequestration challenges are uniquely pressuring O&M providers in the USA. With the move to PTC performance demands, there's a clear need for technology solutions to refine the overall O&M toolkit. AI, data science, and technological breakthroughs are essential for driving long-term efficiencies in operating grid-clean energy assets nationwide. Discover the changing face of O&M with the rise of robotics. Gain insights into how these technologies impact ROI and operational costs compared to non-robotic methods.
 

moderator

Michael Eyman

Origis Services

Nikhil Vadhavkar

Raptor Maps, Inc.

Derek Chase

Onsight Technology

Cathy Grover

Luminate

Dean Solon

Create Energy


12:30

Over & Underperformance in O&M

panel

45 min.

Underperforming assets significantly hinder return on investment. Join the panel and learn the critical factors influencing the solar underperformance of your asset and explore the trends in servicing and O&M best practices, while touching upon performance modeling.

moderator

Kristen Wagner

SolarAnywhere

Michael Valerino

Solar Unsoiled

Jim Crimmins

CFV Labs

Garima Kalra

NovaSource Power Services

Chris Downs

Cypress Creek Solutions


Session 2B

New Dynamics in Asset Management

11:45

The Asset Manager's Evolving Role in a Smarter Energy Society

panel

45 min.

Join our discussion to uncover the evolving role of asset managers in a smarter energy society. Explore how future Asset Management trends will impact your day-to-day work, emphasizing the impact of digital innovation. Gain insights into how asset managers are shaping a sustainable energy future through modern strategies.

moderator

Rob Andrews

Erin Kivlehan

Clenera

Lynsey Tibbs

Silicon Ranch

Lakshmi Nandakumar

Arevon Energy

Robert Johnson

Power Factors


12:30

How Asset Management Contributes to a Sustainable and Just Future

panel

45 min.

Learn how managers are integrating ESG considerations, going beyond traditional metrics to embrace sustainability, social impact, and governance standards. Gain insights into aligning solar projects with broader societal goals while ensuring robust governance practices.

moderator

Blerta Kumbaro

Akuo Energy

Todd Lacoste

Primergy

Zoe Berkery

CleanCapital

Keith Gordon

DWGP (Duncan, Weinberg, Genzer & Pembroke)

Stephen Campbell

Navisun


13:15

Lunch Break

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Session 3A

Mitigating Risk in O&M

14:40

Vegetation Management and Biodiversity Conservation

panel

45 min.

Effective vegetation management around your solar plant is essential not only for optimizing energy production but also for biodiversity conservation. Strategic practices prevent shading, ensuring peak efficiency, while also preserving native plants and creating wildlife-friendly habitats. This holistic approach strikes a balance between renewable energy generation and environmental stewardship, contributing to the overall sustainability of the solar facility.

moderator

Patrick Allen

Hanwha Convergence USA

Nick de Vries

Silicon Ranch

Christina Hebb

McCarthy Building Companies

Nathan Wojcik

SWCA

Michael Cosgrave

RenewableGuard


15:25

IRA in O&M - Prevailing Wage and Apprenticeship Requirements

panel

45 min.

Explore the latest prevailing wage and apprenticeship requirements in the IRA, focusing on their impact on O&M costs. Gain valuable insights, navigate compliance challenges, and ensure preparedness for future developments. Join the discussion for a concise overview and practical understanding of these crucial regulations.

moderator

Amanda Bybee

Amicus O&M Cooperative

Margaret Romaniello

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

Reegan Moen

SOLV Energy

Andrea Herman

Latham & Watkins


Session 3B

Asset Management - Strengthening the Solar Foundation

14:40

IRA - Deep dive into PTC vs ITC

panel

45 min.

To PTC or to ITC... that's the question. Explore how these tax credits can shape your solar and solar + storage assets. Acquire understanding for informed decision-making in this dynamic renewable energy landscape.

moderator

Javier Rico

BloombergNEF

Bari Wien

Wells Fargo

Juan Camilo Garcia

SB Energy (USA)

Stephen M. Becker

ICF


15:25

Transferability of Tax Credits

panel

45 min.

Join this panel discussion on the hurdles of transferring tax credits and how that impacts the market. Industry experts will explore regulatory and financial challenges, sharing real-world insights regarding small-scale assets

moderator

Benjamin Zanetti

DNV

Britta von Oesen

CRC-IB

Lauren Collins

Vinson & Elkins

Gary Blitz

Aon

Ian Boccaccio

Ryan


16:10

Afternoon Networking Break

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Session 4

Future-Proofing Solar Asset Management Strategies

16:55

Latest NERC Regulations

30 min.

Live Podcast

As more asset owners have to comply with new NERC regulations, this presentation will be a crucial opportunity to get insights into updates, compliance requirements, and their impact on your asset management strategies.

moderator

Kellie Macpherson

Radian Generation

Keith Rose

Operant Networks

Brent Wachter

Cleanleaf Energy

Jim Stuart

NERC (North American Electric Reliability Corporation)


17:25

Future-Proofing Solar Assets - Repowering, Revamping and Recycling

panel

50 min.

Explore the future of aging assets with a panel that will cover repairs beyond warranty, recycling, and repowering business models, and lessons learned from real-world cases. Join the discussion for practical insights and strategies in managing assets reaching end-of-life.

moderator

Richard Matsui

DOE Loan Programs Office

Jesse Simons

SOLARCYCLE

Moira Clancy

RNWBL

Roger Ullman

Microsoft

Lara Hamsher

The AES Corporation

Kelly Weger

Qcells


18:15

Closing Words by Solarplaza

presentation

10 min.

Edwin Koot

Solarplaza

Rob Andrews


18:25

Networking Drinks

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19:30

"A Decade of Solar Brilliance" Anniversary Celebration Bash

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Join us for a tasty & energizing dinner party, as we celebrate the 10th anniversary of our Solar Asset Management event.
10 years of industry collaboration, asset optimization and solar excellence configuration! 🎊

Additional registration is required

22:00

After-party


Still some business cards and tall tales left? Feel free to continue networking and socializing with your fellow attendees at the Red Marlin Restaurant. We've made sure it'll stay open to receive you until midnight.

Please note that this will not be facilitated or attended by Solarplaza staff and that consumptions are on a private basis.

Wednesday 10 April 2024

Program Day 2


Activity

Morning Yoga

07:30

Morning Yoga Session

60 min.

Start your day with a relaxing and revitalizing yoga session to get you lean, limber and ready to go for another packed day of knowledge & network sharing.

No registration required, so it's on a first-come, first-served principle (though there will be plenty of spots).


Activity

Breakfast

08:00

Networking Breakfast Session

75 min.

Join us for a morning networking session where you can refresh and discuss insights from day one. Connect with fellow attendees over breakfast as you prepare for another day of learning and collaboration. Set your alarm, share your thoughts, exchange ideas, and fuel up for an engaging day ahead.

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09:15

Opening by Conference Chairman

presentation

10 min.

Rob Andrews


Session 5

Seizing the Opportunities for Expansion and Advancement of Storage

09:25

Clean Energy for the Many, Not the Few

20 min.

The clean energy transition will be the greatest driver of economic transformation in the next decade. What are the solutions that will allow us to maximize the speed and scale of installed MWs while simultaneously advancing equitable access to the benefits of clean energy? This session will uncover how the burgeoning policy focus on low-income inclusion affects solar and storage assets, customer preferences, project risk, and innovative financing models.

Steph Speirs

Solstice Power Technologies


09:45

Your First Energy Storage Project: Implications for Developers & Asset Managers

panel

30 min.

Make sure to catch this interactive panel as we explore how the unique complexities of energy storage and hybrid projects can impact existing developers and asset managers.
Our expert speakers will discuss storage-specific project development considerations - like warranty risks and revenue simulation. We’ll then explore the unique challenges of adapting operations teams and processes to manage storage assets that participate in dynamic wholesale markets – where information is either lacking or overwhelming, technical asset performance is not enough, and trading decisions will make or break an investor’s returns.

moderator

Laura Kraus Lovenshimer

Shining Rock Analytics

Matt Tappin

Stem

Boris Schubert

Silicon Ranch


10:15

Exchanging Viewpoints on Storage Costs and Technologies

panel

45 min.

Join the opening panel where experts engage in a lively discussion on the allocation of storage costs. We will dive into opposing viewpoints, financial dynamics, and responsibilities in the storage sector through case study examples.

moderator

Leigh Zanone

Zanonergy

Nellie Tong

DNV

Ryan McCauley

QE Solar

Wesley Fuller

Powin


11:00

Morning Networking Break

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Session 6A

Rethinking O&M Approaches for Enhanced Performance

11:45

Pre and Post-NatCat: Best Strategies

panel

45 min.

The weather is going a bit bonkers, folks! Learn all about the best post-catastrophe O&M actions with this exciting panel. Explore trends in spare part management and recycling strategies. Gain insights into achieving a swift recovery and sustainable future for your plant after natural catastrophes.

moderator

Ann Will

GroundWork Renewables

Ken Elser

Wells Fargo

Nicole Thompson

kWh Analytics

Neil Bautista

BayWa r.e.

Andrew Griffiths

Nextracker


12:30

Insurance Unavailability: What Now?

panel

45 min.

The discussion will cover insurance availability challenges and their impact on asset management, risk sharing, the evolution of insurance contracts, and the best strategies to adjust financial models to accommodate escalating and unpredictable insurance costs, ensuring your projects remain financially viable. Additionally, we'll explore essential preparations for safeguarding assets against natural catastrophes, enhancing resilience, and implementing robust risk management practices.

moderator

Jason Kaminsky

kWh Analytics

Jon Previtali

VDE Americas

Melissa Marsh

Axis Capital

Ananda Hartzell

DEPCOM Power

Kevin Christy

Lightsource bp


Session 6B

Asset Management - Rethinking Revenue Approaches for Enhanced Yield Stability

11:45

Deep Dive into Innovative Revenue Models

panel

45 min.

The demand for Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) is on a steep incline due to the increasing pressure on accelerating the energy transition and the definitive phase-out of subsidies and other incentives. Learn how to navigate contractual risks, discover effective offtaker solutions, dive into PPAs price negotiations and peek into the future of fully merchant-based projects.
 

moderator

Kathy Lin

IOWN Renewable Energy

Jamie Link

Avantus

Patty Liao

Marathon Capital

Lee Connor

Meta

Bryan Villano

Contract Power


12:30

C&I and Community Solar - New Growth Opportunities

panel

45 min.

Discover groundbreaking solutions in community solar, examining participation, financing, and community engagement, also with a focus on real-world examples from the Commercial and Industrial (C&I) sector. Gain understanding from experts on reshaping and managing solar assets, addressing challenges such as financing hurdles, and regulatory complexities, adapting to variable energy demand, refining storage solutions, and increasing awareness within the business sector. Explore a case study showcasing the successful implementation of community solar in a C&I setting.

moderator

Eric Wright

S&P Global Commodity Insights

Chioma Enechukwu

Madison Energy Infrastructure

Kelly Leslie Hadayia

Pivot Energy

Camelia Miu

Nautilus Solar

Matt Houser

Omnidian


13:15

Lunch Networking Break

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Session 7A

Solar Asset Optimization

14:30

Strategic Geographies: Developing & Managing Assets in Complex Areas

panel

45 min.

Developing solar assets in complex areas poses challenges ranging from regulatory hurdles and land acquisition issues to environmental concerns and engineering complexities. Successful navigation requires a multidisciplinary approach, combining technical expertise with a deep understanding of local contexts for sustainable and responsible solar projects.

moderator

Armando Solís

Lightsource bp

Mario Kovacs

Fluence

Amanda Smith

Pinegate Renewables

Katie Guillen

Soltage


15:15

O&M Challenges for C&I Projects

panel

45 min.

In this session, we'll cover key aspects such as installation cost optimization, QA processes, and ensuring correct system construction and safety. The panel will explore the integration of EV charging, managing larger-scale failures, and navigating hybrid portfolios with diverse ownership structures. We'll also touch on decision factors related to insourcing vs outsourcing O&M.

moderator

Rogér Balyon

Amazon

Stephen Branscum

Walmart

Lisa Yops

Omnidian

Rhone Resch

Solarlytics

Dominic Buergi

Stäubli


Session 7B

Solar Asset Optimization

14:30

Mitigating Curtailment Costs - Storage Integration

panel

30 min.

Join in on the discussion addressing challenges in the U.S. electrical grid, focusing on preventing curtailment costs. Explore solutions through grid modernization, energy storage, and smart technologies. Discover the importance of improved forecasting and flexible energy management systems for aligning production with demand, ensuring a resilient and efficient energy future.

moderator

Kasim Khan

Wood Mackenzie

Fausto Perez

PXiSE Energy Solutions

Jigeesha Upadhyaya

Arevon Energy


15:00

New GADS 2024 Requirements: Preparing Your Organization for PV GADS and Event Reporting

presentation

15 min.

In 2024, North American wind and solar plants grapple with heightened GADS reporting. The 2024 GADS necessitates individual event reporting for issues causing a 20MW+ capacity outage at the site level. External curtailment, maintenance, and safety shutdowns must be categorized and submitted quarterly for sites over 20MW. This adds complexity, potentially overwhelming asset managers without automated tools. The new requirements underscore the need for efficient solutions to navigate increased demands from internal and external standards.

Jeremy Hunter

Invenergy Services

Brad Johnson

Univers


15:15

Technology Mix and Match: the Potential of Hybrid Energy Projects

panel

45 min.

Delve into the opportunities and challenges of hybrid energy systems for your asset management. From balancing intermittency to optimizing energy storage, discover the potential for enhanced reliability and efficient energy solutions.

moderator

Anne Qingyang Liu

Aurora Energy Research

Ben Lemkau

RWE

Garrett Hanrahan

Ørsted

Blaine Sundwall

EDF Renewables North America

Peter Kobliska

GreenPowerMonitor


16:00

Short Break

Session 8

A Bright and Sunny Future: Capitalizing on Solar's Versatility

16:15

Domestic Content - Local Manufacturing and ESG Perspectives

panel

40 min.

In the coming decade, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) is projected to drive a 48% increase in solar deployment, necessitating a significant boost in local solar manufacturing. Will new PV manufacturing policies create global PV supply diversification? Delve into strategies for navigating regulatory landscapes and meeting stringent quality standards for both your supply chain and solar asset management.

moderator

Lynsey Tibbs

Silicon Ranch

Hilary Lefko

Norton Rose Fulbright

Jaime Fernandez

Nextracker

Ardes Johnson

Meyer Burger

Terry Jester

PI Photovoltaik-Institut Berlin AG


16:55

Promoting Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility in the Solar Industry

panel

40 min.

While gender diversity is an important aspect, a comprehensive DEIA approach recognizes and addresses a multitude of dimensions to foster a truly inclusive workplace and industry. Fostering diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in the solar industry is essential for innovation, creativity, and ensuring equal access to opportunities. Beyond being a moral imperative, prioritizing DEIA is a strategic decision that enhances productivity and contributes to the industry's sustainable growth.

moderator

Janell Hills

IREC (Interstate Renewable Energy Council)

Doseke Akporiaye

WRISE

Andreas Karelas

RE-VOLV

Kara Gunn

Lightsource bp


17:35

Art Meets Solar

presentation

15 min.

Shala Akintunde

The Movement Worldwide, Inc.


17:50

Closing Remarks by the Chairperson

presentation

10 min.

Edwin Koot

Solarplaza

Rob Andrews


18:00

Closing Networking Drinks

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Project Manager

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Event Coordinator Team Lead

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