PV ModuleTech USA Welcome Party hosted by Kiwa
On arrival, join conference attendees for an informal evening of drinks, canapés, and networking. The welcome reception and early registration will be held at Kiwa PVEL’s Headquarters (388 Devlin Rd, Napa, CA 94558). Our hosts for the evening are Kiwa PVEL and Kiwa PI Berlin.
The evening offers delegates a relaxed environment to meet with old friends and new in a vibrant setting. This is the perfect opportunity to build connections and set the tone for an inspiring and fruitful conference ahead. You will also be able to collect your badge and lanyard ahead of the conference.
PV Module Availability in the US in 2026
This session will explore the evolving landscape of PV module availability in the United States, focusing on the challenges and opportunities presented by a rapidly changing market. With domestic manufacturing ramping up to meet demand, the session will highlight how U.S.-based manufacturers are reshaping supply chains, reducing reliance on imports, and ensuring high-quality production. A key focus will be on balancing the growing demand for PV modules with their availability and quality, ensuring that projects can proceed without delays or compromises in performance.
Speakers
Martin Pochtaruk
Chris Lettman
Andreas Bentzen
Navigating PV Module Procurement in a Shifting Landscape
This session will explore the evolving landscape of PV module procurement, with a focus on the impact of changing tariff regimes, trade policies such as anti-dumping/countervailing duties (AD/CVD), and the growth of domestic manufacturing. The discussion will center on how module buyers can balance these risks through various strategies, including diversifying procurement sources and leveraging domestic manufacturing opportunities. It will also cover robust due diligence processes, such as assessing the credibility and ownership structures of suppliers and conducting technical evaluations to ensure module quality and field performance.
Speakers
Jade Jones
Ryan Zwilling
Justin Gunning
Coffee Break
Understanding Global PV Module Supply to the U.S.
This session will explore the availability and origins of PV cells and modules being imported into the U.S. market, highlighting the strategies non-U.S. manufacturers are using to meet demand, while maintaining high-quality standards. Attendees will gain insights into the importance of supply chain traceability and technical due diligence to ensure performance in U.S. projects. The session will also address the fast-changing dynamics of trade policies, including AD/CVD cases, tariffs, and FEOC regulations impacting supply chains and procurement strategies. Legal experts and industry leaders will provide guidance on compliance, risk mitigation, and best practices for navigating these complexities in the U.S. solar market.
Speakers
Angela Santos
Frank Faller
Mintu Roy
Moustafa Ramadan
PV Module Quality: Insights from Testing Results and Failure Analysis
This session will look at recent findings from test labs and research institutes into common failures at a module level, highlighting the critical factors that impact performance and reliability. It will explore how advanced testing techniques, such as UVID (UV-induced degradation) analysis and glass durability assessments, are uncovering new insights into module degradation mechanisms.
Speakers
Tristan Erion-Lorico
Elizabeth Palmiotti
Bram Hoex
Balancing Cost, Quality, and Reliability in PV Modules
Moderator
Teresa Barnes
This panel discussion will delve into the critical factors of cost, quality, and reliability in PV module selection, offering insights into how these elements can be balanced in a price sensitive market and evolving module availability. Industry experts, including testing professionals and procurement specialists, will share strategies for evaluating module performance, integrating testing results into procurement decisions, and designing sites that optimize reliability without compromising cost-effectiveness.
Speakers
Michael Perron
Brad Plunkett
John Doty
Coffee Break
Quality Assurance in PV Module Manufacturing: Challenges and Solutions
This session will delve into the critical aspects of factory quality assurance (QA) in PV module manufacturing, featuring insights from experienced suppliers who have successfully navigated challenges when establishing new factories. Attendees will hear firsthand accounts of overcoming obstacles such as scaling production, maintaining consistency, and meeting international standards. Additionally, third-party factory inspectors will share their expertise on ensuring compliance, identifying risks, and implementing robust QA processes.
Speakers
Don Cowan
Harsh Galia
Alexandre Minuzzo
Wine Tasting Evening hosted by T1 Energy
Join other conference attendees for an evening of wine tasting in the evening following the first day of the conference. The wine tasting will once again be held at the Sunrise Ranch Winery, just a short drive from the conference venue. Our hosts for the evening are T1 Energy.
The evening offers a relaxed environment for delegates to network and unwind, enjoying scenic views and locally produced wines!
Wine Tasting Host:
Strengthening Supply Chains: Exploring Domestic and Global Opportunities for Resilient Procurement
Moderator
Tristan Erion-Lorico
This session will explore strategies for strengthening supply chains by examining both domestic manufacturing options and global opportunities for sourcing PV modules. Attendees will gain insights into the advantages of sourcing from US-based manufacturers, such as reduced lead times, compliance with domestic trade policies, and enhanced supply chain control. Additionally, the session will look at the pros and cons of sourcing from international regions, including India, Southeast Asia, and Latin America, highlighting factors like competitive pricing, manufacturing quality, and supply chain reliability. Potential challenges, such as trade policies, logistics, and regional market dynamics, will also be discussed to provide a comprehensive perspective for manufacturers and procurement professionals.
Speakers
Andrea Bodenhagen
Jim Wood
Kayan Kalthia
Coffee Break
Sustainability in PV Modules: Recycling and Low-Carbon Solutions
Sustainability in PV modules is gaining attention, from recycling to low-carbon manufacturing. This session highlights innovative approaches and their benefits for the industry, including how recyclability and sustainability can be integrated into procurement practices. Attendees will hear from organizations actively working on recycling processes and analyzing modules for their recyclability, exploring the types of materials that can be recovered and identifying those that complicate the recycling process. The session will examine the advances towards creating a fully circular economy, addressing ways to reduce waste and enhance resource efficiency within the PV module lifecycle.
Speakers
Andre Pujadas
Nouha Gazbour
Armando Solis
Maximizing PV Performance at the Component Selection and Build Stage
This session explores the decisions that can be made at the planning stage in selecting and deploying PV modules and other key components, highlighting how these decisions shape project success and system performance. It also delves into proactive strategies, such as preventative actions, system upgrades, and re-powering opportunities, to extend system lifespan and reduce downtime. Emphasizing data-driven decision-making and collaboration between stakeholders.
Speakers
Jennifer Braid
Jenya Meydbray
Bruce Wang
Networking Lunch
Optimizing PV Systems Through Collaboration
This session brings together a panel of industry leaders to discuss innovative strategies for improving site and module performance in photovoltaic (PV) systems. The panel will explore how collaboration between these key stakeholders can drive advancements in system design, material selection, and installation practices to maximize energy yield and operational efficiency. Topics will include optimizing site layouts, leveraging cutting-edge module technologies, and implementing best practices for installation and maintenance
Speakers
Frank Oudheusden
Rogan Guild
Strategic Planning to Reduce Risks with Co-Located Battery Storage
Co-located battery storage is transforming solar project planning, offering enhanced energy reliability and operational efficiency. This session will delve into strategies for reducing risks in project development, including warranty challenges, selecting compatible technologies, and managing construction complexities. Industry experts will provide insights into optimizing performance, mitigating long-term risks, and navigating regulatory frameworks.
Speakers
Todd Heffner
Lessons from Solar PV Procurement Due Diligence for Co-Located Battery Storage
This panel will delve into the lessons that a rapidly expanding energy storage sector can draw from the due diligence and quality assurance practices of the solar industry. Experts will discuss areas of overlap, such as procurement strategies, supply chain complexities, and performance assessment, while also addressing critical differences, including unique risk factors for batteries, such as thermal management and degradation. The discussion will encompass regulatory considerations, corporate due diligence, and approaches to improving reliability and overall quality.


