CALIFORNIA, United States — Local players in the energy industry are keeping a close eye on networking opportunities and more effective energy solutions at North America’s largest renewable energy event, RE+.

Owner of Iree Solar, Alex Hill — whose business focuses on solar power, water heating, water pumping and distribution — said he is expecting to learn best practices through connections with other solar business operators.

“We have been operating in Jamaica since 2009 and we are positive on what is happening in Jamaica and the growth of the sector. More Jamaicans are willing to invest in their energy independence and that, for us as a company, is very important and we want to really connect with suppliers and also other companies in the US and internationally,” Hill told the Jamaica Observer.

“The key here is really keeping your eyes to what is being offered from existing suppliers, and we also have our eyes on certain people we want to work with, new products, and strengthening existing relationships,” added Hill.

Director at Premier Energy Solutions, Trevor Bernard, said he is looking forward to various energy solutions proposed at the event.

“We have been in business for about three years now and we offer solutions to customers, especially residential customers. We are now currently offering solutions to a lot of clients who are not so sure of what directions they want to take,” he added.

“I am really into all things electric, all things solar; I am very excited about those kinds of things. We are supposed to learn a lot from this conference from every aspect of what we are doing, and we are looking for all opportunities to grow our business,” he said.

Morris Hutchinson, who is the managing director at Alternative Energy Plus, said he is expecting to gain tips to boost clientele and provide more up to date technology.

“As a distributor and leader in renewable energy in Jamaica, I have to keep on the cutting edge of technology, and one of the ways you can keep on it is to engage the latest and greatest technology showcased here,” he said.

“Having the opportunity to offer to our clients in Jamaica the best… the latest and greatest technology would be beneficial, having known the problems and the challenges we have in Jamaica with the grids, terrains, what will best suit the needs of clients — anything that has the requisite quality and networking in order to enhance the distributorship,” said Hutchinson, whose company has been in operation since 2008.

Other local players participating in the conference include Alternative Power Sources, Construction Energy, Estech Energy, FosRich, Gennex Elite, Innovative Energy Company, and Jamaica Public Service.

The event, formerly referred to as Solar Power International and which commenced on September 19, will run until September 22.

It is expected to provide an opportunity for key decision-makers in the green energy sector to learn about the latest US technologies and innovations in renewable energy management, storage solutions, and regulatory changes needed to encourage the transition from fossil fuels to clean energy.