Solar markets are booming in the US due to consumer interest in green technologies, concern about energy prices and financial incentives from the federal government, states, local governments and utilities.  Specifically, solar hot water installations have taken off since the enhanced Federal Investment Tax Credit took effect in 2006.  In the continental 48 states, annual installed capacity has quintupled since 2005 (IREC - 2009 Updates and Trends Annual Report).  

So, how is the solar hot water market fairing in Ohio? What options exist for plumbers, pipe-fitters, contractors, HVAC specialists and others?  Our May Clean Energy Network Meeting is open to anyone new to the solar energy industry that has an interest to learn the basics, and passion to explore opportunities in the emerging green energy economy.  The meeting will provide an overview of solar resources in Ohio, common types of residential solar systems and components, incentives, Ohio case studies and training/certification programs associated with the solar hot water industry. 

 Green Energy Ohio Solar Program Manager, Athan Barkoukis, will be the featured speaker for the meeting.  Barkoukis holds a number of solar hot water dealer certifications, co-teaches solar hot water and solar electric training programs, developed introductory renewable energy curriculum for Ohio Community Colleges and currently oversees Ohio’s only Residential Solar Thermal Rebate Program.

Attendees will also be able to view a solar hot water system, and myriad other HVAC systems that can be integrated into a solar system design provided by our Host Sponsor, Stack Heating & Cooling. 

Agenda:

6:00 – 6:30: Registration and Networking
6:30:  Introductory Remarks by Green Energy Ohio and Stack Heating & Cooling
6:40:  Overview of Solar Hot Water in Ohio by Solar Program Manager, Athan Barkoukis
7:15:  Tour of Facility & Networking
7:30:  Conclusion of Program

Registration 
Free & Open to the Public, but RSVP is required due to limited space. 

Support
This Clean Energy Network Meeting is made possible by The Cleveland Foundation and Stack Heating & Cooling