Midwest Renewable Energy Association

RE+ Midwest
2024-11-07 - 2024-11-08 | Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk, 301 E North Water St, Chicago, IL, United States
Join the Midwest Renewable Energy Association at RE+ Midwest on November 7-8 in Chicago, IL. This event is designed to serve and advance the clean energy market by bringing together buyers and suppliers in solar and energy storage to explore business solutions, new technologies, policy initiatives, and other market factors.
Learn more and register today.

December Member Event
2024-12-11 17:00 - 18:30 (America/Chicago) | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
Calling all MREA members — save the date!
Let’s talk about the election and what comes next. We are at a crossroads, and this is an opportunity to learn. We’ll share our perspectives and expected impacts as it relates to the energy system, and we want to hear from you too. We’ll light the fire, discuss how we move forward, and re-ignite our passion and commitment.
This is not a political event and is open to all MREA members. Please RSVP so we can plan accordingly; seats may be limited.
When: Wednesday, December 11th, 5-6:30 p.m.
Where: MREA Education Room, 7558 Deer Road, Custer, WI 54423

Solar Plus Storage Training (PV 450.04)
2024-12-12 09:00 - 2024-12-13 17:00 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
Come to the MREA to see a variety of cutting-edge solar energy storage products and applications in our Energy Storage System (ESS) Tech Center. Thanks to generous donations from many of our sponsors, the Tech Center is an integral part of our Solar Plus Storage training package, available four times throughout the year. Both courses (PV 451 & 452) are approved for NABCEP advanced PV training, recertification & renewal credit hours.
This is a two-day in-person course held at MREA’s Energy Storage Tech Center in Custer, WI. Class times are 9a.m. – 5p.m. CT.
Prerequisite Required: PV 101

Learn More / Course Details
Register

Intro to Solar Jobs
2024-12-14 08:00 - 16:00 | Madison College, 1701 Wright Street, Madison WI 53704, WI, 53704, United States
SOLAR WORKFORCE TRAINING
In partnership with The MadiSUN Workforce Training Program, this session aims to provide essential, entry-level training for anyone interested in joining the solar workforce. Participants will learn about the outlook for solar workers, how photovoltaic (PV) systems work, different PV system types, system components, and job site skills that will lead to a successful career. No prerequisites are required.
The course will take place on December 14th will take place at Madison College. This is an eight-hour, one-day training offered through MadiSUN and MREA.
CLAIM YOUR SPOT

Solar Training Info Session: Energize Your Solar Career in 2025!
2025-01-08 17:00 - 18:00 | IL
Explore Your Training Path to Solar Success
Ready to launch or grow your solar career? Want to upskill your team or bring solar training to your community? Join us for our 2025 Solar Training Info Session!
? Date: January 8, 2025
? Time: 5:00 PM CST
? Location: Zoom
REGISTER TODAY!
Discover how MREA’s accredited solar training programs can support your goals with:

NABCEP PV Associate Credential Training Pathway (entry-level)
NABCEP PV Board Certification Training Pathways (advanced)
Solar Plus Storage Training
Online and In-Person Courses to fit your busy schedule
Custom Group Training tailored for your team or organization
Continuing Education to stay ahead in the industry

This is your chance to ask questions and explore the opportunities that fit your career or organizational needs. Let’s energize your solar career together! Register today, and submit any questions you have ahead of time.
Questions? Contact us at courses@midwestrenew.org
REGISTER TODAY!

PV Associate Core Course Package (PV 255.01)
2025-01-27 09:00 - 2025-01-31 17:00 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
Kickstart Your Solar Career with MREA’s NABCEP PV Associate Core Course Package
Fast-Track Your Solar Career: Earn the NABCEP PV Associate Credential in Just One Week!
Join Us for PV Week at MREA in Custer, WI
Ready to launch your career in solar energy? MREA’s PV Week in Custer, WI, is your one-stop opportunity to earn your NABCEP PV Associate Credential in just five days. This immersive, in-person program is taught by NABCEP-certified solar professionals who will guide you through the fundamentals of solar PV systems. By the end of the week, you’ll be qualified and ready to sit for the NABCEP PV Associate Exam, and earn your entry-level solar credential giving you a competitive edge in the industry.
What You’ll Learn During PV Week:

Monday: Basic Photovoltaics (PV 101)
Tuesday: PV Site Assessment (PV 201)
Wednesday & Thursday: PV System Design (PV 202)
Friday: PV Exam Prep (PV 220) & NABCEP PV Associate Exam (optional)

Each day, classes run from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Upon completion of this series, you’ll be qualified and ready to sit for the NABCEP PV Associate Exam. When you pass the exam, you are a solar professional!
Learn More / Course Details
Register

Energy Pro Demo Day
2025-02-05 09:00 - 16:00 | Monona Terrace, Madison, WI, 1 John Nolen Dr, Madison, WI, 53703, United States
The MREA is proud to announce that Energy Pro Demo Day is back in 2025! Join us on Wednesday, February 5 in Madison, WI to stay up to date with industry best practices and top-of-the-line products. Held alongside RENEW Wisconsin’s Energy Summit, Demo Day is a must-attend event for energy professionals!
Demo Day will feature 12+ one-hour workshops specifically for energy professionals in Wisconsin. Designed to engage participants in cutting-edge clean energy technologies and up-to-date education on best practices for installers, designers, and engineers, Demo Day is the perfect opportunity to enhance workforce professional development and gain the education your team needs most.
Programming featured during Demo Day will include:

Product demonstrations and educational sessions on energy storage safety, battery storage, navigating the National Electrical Code (NEC), and installation best practices from Briggs & Stratton, Fronius, FranklinWH, and others.
The MREA’s Wisconsin Installer Panel curated to answer your questions about electrical inspection, battery system installation codes, utility interconnection requirements, and more.
Connection opportunities with instructors and professionals in the energy field to understand best practices and how to stay up to date with codes and requirements.

Admission to Demo Day provides entrance to all workshops. The final schedule is set to be released in January 2025. Interested in getting involved with MREA’s Demo Days? Contact celia@midwestrenew.org
REGISTER TODAY!

RENEW Wisconsin Summit
2025-02-06 07:45 - 16:30 | Monona Terrace, Madison, WI, 1 John Nolen Dr, Madison, WI, 53703, United States
Join the MREA at the 2025 RENEW Wisconsin Summit as we gather with clean energy industry leaders, policymakers, students, and advocates to explore how clean energy is empowering Wisconsin communities!
Thursday, February 6, 2025 | 7:45 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. | Monona Terrace, Madison, WI
Registration: $50-250
As Wisconsin’s energy landscape rapidly evolves, the need for sustainable, community-focused solutions has never been more pressing. “Powering Tomorrow: Collaborative Innovations for Thriving Communities,” will convene stakeholders from across the state to discuss the latest advancements in clean energy technologies and collaborative strategies driving the transition to a sustainable future.
Through a series of keynote presentations, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, delve into topics such as:

Innovative clean energy technologies and their real-world applications
Policy frameworks that support sustainable development and community resilience
Successful case studies of cross-sector collaborations
Strategies for ensuring inclusivity and economic equity in the clean energy transition

LEARN MORE AND REGISTER

Slipstream Better Buildings: Better Business Conference
2025-02-27 - 2025-02-28 | IL
Join the MREA at Slipstream’s Better Buildings: Better Business Conference.
February 27-28, 2025 | Kalahari Resort, Wisconsin Dells
Registration: $150-750
This two-day conference gathers building science industry leaders, experts, and practitioners from around Wisconsin and the Midwest to enhance the residential building industry. With groundbreaking sessions covering case studies, practical strategies, and hands-on demonstrations we aim to help our attendees deepen their understanding of the sustainable building landscape and how to build their business to thrive in a changing market.
LEARN MORE AND REGISTER

NABCEP CE Conference
2025-03-24 - 2025-03-27 | IL
Join the MREA at the NABCEP CE Conference.
March 24-27 | Reno, Nevada
The advanced-level content presented at the annual NABCEP CE Conference is geared toward PV industry professionals who have experience with PV installation, solar+storage, technical sales, design, O&M, or system inspection. This is the only industry event which allows NABCEP Board Certified Professionals to obtain as much as 20 hours of continuing education unites (CEUs) needed to re-certify.
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PV Associate Core Course Package (PV 255.02)
2025-04-07 09:00 - 2025-04-11 17:00 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
Kickstart Your Solar Career with MREA’s NABCEP PV Associate Core Course Package
Fast-Track Your Solar Career: Earn the NABCEP PV Associate Credential in Just One Week!
Join Us for PV Week at MREA in Custer, WI
Ready to launch your career in solar energy? MREA’s PV Week in Custer, WI, is your one-stop opportunity to earn your NABCEP PV Associate Credential in just five days. This immersive, in-person program is taught by NABCEP-certified solar professionals who will guide you through the fundamentals of solar PV systems. By the end of the week, you’ll be qualified and ready to sit for the NABCEP PV Associate Exam. Earning your entry-level solar credential gives you a competitive edge in the industry.
What You’ll Learn During PV Week:

Monday: Basic Photovoltaics (PV 101)
Tuesday: PV Site Assessment (PV 201)
Wednesday & Thursday: PV System Design (PV 202)
Friday: PV Exam Prep (PV 220) & NABCEP PV Associate Exam (optional)

Each day, classes run from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Learn More / Course Details
Register

IronRidge — Installer Certification Training
2025-04-15 08:00 - 2025-04-16 16:30 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
Join the Midwest Renewable Energy Association and IronRidge to obtain your IronRidge certification! This is a hands-on training that functions as a skill assessment of IronRidge products at the MREA’s headquarters in Custer, WI. Four sessions will be offered over this two-day course. Please register for each individual taking the course.

Tuesday, April 15: 8 a.m.-12 p.m. — REGISTER FOR THIS SESSION
Tuesday, April 15: 12:30-4:30 p.m. — REGISTER FOR THIS SESSION
Wednesday, April 16: 8 a.m.-12 p.m. — REGISTER FOR THIS SESSION
Wednesday, April 16: 12:30-4:30 p.m. — REGISTER FOR THIS SESSION

After registering, you must complete the two-hour online training portion in order to participate in the in-person training. A Spanish version is also available. Two NABCEP continuing education units (CEUs) will be awarded for completing the online portion and an additional three CEUs will be awarded for attending and passing the in-person skills assessment. As a bonus, all attendees will receive a complimentary IronRidge t-shirt at the event!

Earth Day Equity: Air Quality and Solar Power in Beloit
2025-04-22 17:00 - 19:00 | Beloit Public Library, 605 Eclipse Blvd, Beloit, WI, 53511, United States
Join the MREA for Earth Day Equity: Air Quality and Solar Power in Beloit as part of the Couillard Solar Foundation’s Solar Series.
April 22 | 5–7 p.m. | Beloit Public Library (Community Room North)
A 2024 international report identified Beloit, WI as the city with the worst air quality in the US. Census data shows that a third of Beloit’s roughly 36,500 residents are people of color, while nearly one-fifth fall below the poverty line. The event will discuss the factors contributing to the city’s air pollution, a citizen science initiative aimed at monitoring it, and how solar could help alleviate this.
Light refreshments will be available, but we request attendees pre-register.
LEARN MORE

PV Labs & Design Scenarios (PV 304.01)
2025-04-30 09:00 - 17:00 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
PV Labs & Design Scenarios (PV 304): Hands-On Solar Training for System Design

Elevate Your Solar Skills with Practical, In-Person Training
Course Overview
The PV Labs & Design Scenarios (PV 304) course offers a one-day, hands-on experience focused on PV system design and installation. This course is ideal for solar professionals looking to gain practical skills in building and commissioning two types of PV systems: grid-tied and battery-based.Using a portable lab set up at ground level (no climbing required), you will:

Work with line diagrams, manufacturer data sheets, and the National Electrical Code (NEC).
Build and test both a grid-tied system and a battery-based system.
Learn to verify and test mechanical and electrical connections to ensure proper system commissioning.

Course Details

Duration: 1 Day (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM CT)
Format: In-person, hands-on training (no climbing required)

Whether you’re preparing for the NABCEP certification exam, upgrading your skills, or simply looking for practical experience in solar system installation, this course provides the essential training you need to succeed in the rapidly growing solar industry.

Prerequisites Required: PV 101-201-202 or NABCEP PV Associate Credential

Learn More / Course Details
Register

Roof-Mount PV System Design & Installation Lab (PV 312.01)
2025-05-01 09:00 - 2025-05-02 17:00 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
Roof-Mount PV System Design & Installation Lab (PV 312)
Hands-On Solar Training: Design, Install, and Test Roof-Mounted PV Systems
Course Overview
The Roof-Mount PV System Design & Installation Lab (PV 312) is a 2-day, hands-on course where you’ll design, install, and test a roof-mounted PV system.
During the course, you will:

Learn key layout considerations for roof-mounted systems
Understand component specifications and mechanical integration best practices
Apply NEC (National Electrical Code) requirements, including voltage, current, and power calculations
Gain hands-on experience in designing, wiring, and commissioning a grid-connected solar system

This course takes place at MREA’s Training Roof in Custer, WI—one of Wisconsin’s first Travel Green Destinations—providing you with a real-world learning environment powered entirely by renewable energy.
Course Details:

Duration: 2 Days
Format: In-person, hands-on training
Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (both days)
Location: MREA Training Roof, Custer, WI

Prerequisites: PV 101, PV 201, PV 202 (or equivalent training) or NABCEP credential

Learn More / Course Details
Register

PV Labs & Design Scenarios (PV 304.05)
2025-05-09 08:00 - 17:00 | Chippewa Valley Technical College, CVTC, 615 W. Clairemont Ave., Eau Claire, WI, 54701, United States
PV Labs & Design Scenarios (PV 304): Hands-On Solar Training for System Design

Elevate Your Solar Skills with Practical, In-Person Training
Course Overview
The PV Labs & Design Scenarios (PV 304) course offers a one-day, hands-on experience focused on PV system design and installation. This course is ideal for solar professionals looking to gain practical skills in building and commissioning two types of PV systems: grid-tied and battery-based. Using a portable lab set up at ground level (no climbing required), you will:

Work with line diagrams, manufacturer data sheets, and the National Electrical Code (NEC).
Build and test both a grid-tied system and a battery-based system.
Learn to verify and test mechanical and electrical connections to ensure proper system commissioning.

Course Details

Duration: 1 Day (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM CT)
Format: In-person, hands-on training (no climbing required)

Heads Up! This course is being offered at Chippewa Valley Technical College — not the MREA’s headquarters in Custer, WI.
Whether you’re preparing for the NABCEP certification exam, upgrading your skills, or simply looking for practical experience in solar system installation, this course provides the essential training you need to succeed in the rapidly growing solar industry.

Prerequisites Required: PV 101-201-202 or NABCEP PV Associate Credential
Learn More / Course Details
Register

Solstock Storytelling Festival
2025-05-31 17:00 - 20:00 | The Deerfield Community Center Solar Pavilion, 10 Liberty Street, Deerfield, WI, 53531, United States
Join the MREA at the Couillard Solar Foundation’s fourth annual Solstock Storytelling Festival on Saturday, May 31 in Deerfield, Wisconsin.
Every community has its stories, and every solar project began with someone getting excited about generating their own power – or frustrated with the existing energy infrastructure. At the 4th annual Solstock Festival, the Couillard Solar Foundation will be giving a handful of groups from around Wisconsin an opportunity to share their story with the festival’s attendees. All participating groups will receive a prize, and they will be able to accept donations on the day of the event.
Audience members will cast votes for the group they feel should receive extra support, and that group will take home 10 kW of solar panels, a value of approximately $3000. The first two runners up will receive 5 kW panels worth roughly $1500, and there will be other prizes as well.

Midwest Solar Expo
2025-06-09 - 2025-06-11 | Westin Chicago Lombard Hotel, 70 Yorktown Shopping Center, Lombard, IL, 60148, United States
Join the Midwest Renewable Energy Association along with other industry leaders, innovators, and clean energy enthusiasts for the 2025 Midwest Solar Expo.
With three days of cutting-edge presentations, policy updates, networking opportunities, hands-on training, and exhibition showcasing the latest solar innovations, this event promises to illuminate the future of renewable energy in the heart of the Midwest.

Shine On: Solar in Your Community (Vesper, WI)
2025-06-10 17:30 - 19:00 | Vesper Community Center, 6554 Cameron Avenue, Vesper, WI, 54489, United States
Tuesday, June 10 | 5:30-7:00 p.m. | Vesper Community Center | 6554 Cameron Avenue, Vesper, WI 54489
Join the Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA) for an educational session on solar energy and how you can engage with it. Our team will walk you through how solar energy works, and have open conversations about your questions, concerns, and what you should know.
There is no cost to attend. Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages will be available throughout the event. Questions? Email info@midwestrenew.org
Let us know you’ll be attending! Fill out the following form to RSVP and submit any specific questions you may have.
RSVP

2025 Membership Meeting
2025-06-14 15:00 - 16:30 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
Saturday, June 14 | 3–4:30 p.m. | 7558 Deer Road, Custer, WI

Join us at the MREA’s Annual Membership Meeting on Saturday, June 14. Come to learn about the MREA’s initiatives in 2025. MREA staff and board will speak on these topics and many more regarding accomplishments and goals of the last year and the year to come. Time will be reserved near the end of the meeting for questions and discussion.
As a member-based organization, we greatly value your attendance and feedback. We count on our members to continue supporting the growth of the MREA and its mission. There is no cost to attend, though we do ask that you RSVP. Must be an MREA member.
RSVP TO ATTEND

MREA Celebration Dinner
2025-06-14 17:30 - 20:30 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
Saturday, June 14 | 5:30–8:30 p.m. | 7558 Deer Road, Custer, WI

Join us for the first MREA Celebration Dinner as we commemorate 35 years of the MREA. We look forward to the opportunity to come together on the MREA grounds once again to share in the industry and movement that connects us. Our meal will be a celebration of local farmers, growers, producers, chefs, and Central Wisconsin crops. In addition to dinner, we welcome you to enjoy local beverages and the live music of Yas and the Jewelers as dinner concludes.
This is a ticketed event. Members: $75/ticket. Non-members: $90/ticket. Dinner includes a complimentary welcome beverage. Cash bar to follow.
In an effort to reduce our event’s environmental impact, we’re opting for a primarily plant-based menu. You will have the option to swap the plant-based protein for meat for one of the entrees during your meal selection. Our meal will be prepared by Rockmans Catering out of Plover, WI. Items from the dishes will be provided by local growers and makers such as Segura and Sons Mushrooms, Stevens Point Sauce Company, and Central Waters Brewing with additional partners to be announced!
PURCHASE TICKETS

The State of Rooftop Solar in Wisconsin Webinar
2025-06-20 12:00 - 13:00 | Online
Join MREA’s Solar Program Coordinator, Corey Ziemann, for a presentation on current successes and challenges for rooftop solar in our state. Learn about the advantages of distributed solar generation and how group buy programs make solar more accessible.
REGISTER TO ATTEND

PV Associate Core Course Package (PV 255.03)
2025-07-21 09:00 - 2025-07-25 17:00 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States

Solar in Your Community — Amherst, WI (Jensen Community Center)
2025-07-30 17:30 - 19:00 | Jensen Community Center, 487 N Main Street, Amherst, 54406, United States
Wednesday, July 30 | 5:30–7:00 p.m. | Community Room | 487 N Main Street, Amherst, WI
Join the MREA’s Solar in Your Community presentations to get clear, credible answers from our renewable energy experts. These free educational events are designed to provide you with the latest facts, data, and insight — so you can make informed decisions about the future of energy in your area.
We’re committed to open dialogue, and we welcome your questions, ideas, and concerns. Join us at our upcoming events to be part of the conversation.
There is no cost to attend. Local beverages will be available throughout the event. If you know you will be attending, please consider RSVPing and submitting any questions you may have ahead of time to be addressed during the session.
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PV Labs & Design Scenarios (PV304.02)
2025-08-06 09:00 - 17:00 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States

Solar in Your Community — Stevens Point, WI (CREATE Portage County)
2025-08-06 17:30 - 19:00 | CREATE Portage County, 1300 Maria Drive Suite B, Stevens Point, WI, 54481, United States
Wednesday, August 6 | 5:30–7:00 p.m. | Community Room – Front Patio Entrance | 1300 Maria Drive Suite B, Stevens Point, WI
Join the MREA’s Solar in Your Community presentations to get clear, credible answers from our renewable energy experts. These free educational events are designed to provide you with the latest facts, data, and insight — so you can make informed decisions about the future of energy in your area.
We’re committed to open dialogue, and we welcome your questions, ideas, and concerns. Join us at our upcoming events to be part of the conversation.
There is no cost to attend. Local beverages will be available throughout the event. If you know you will be attending, please consider RSVPing and submitting any questions you may have ahead of time to be addressed during the session.
LEARN MORE

Roof-Mount PV System Design & Installation Lab (PV 312.02)
2025-08-07 09:00 - 2025-08-08 17:00 | IL

Grow Solar Power Hour: Bloomington-Normal — August 13
2025-08-13 12:00 - 13:00 | Online
Grow Solar is a solar group-buying and education program that makes going solar easier. Offered by the Midwest Renewable Energy Association and the Ecology Action Center, property owners in DeWitt and McLean counties can pool their buying power to secure significant discounts that make installing solar more affordable.
Join us at an upcoming Power Hour to learn more:
Wednesday, August 13 | 12:00 p.m. | Virtual — attend via Zoom
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Grow Solar Power Hour: Central Wisconsin — August 13
2025-08-13 17:30 - 18:30 | Central Waters Brewery, 351 Allen St, Amherst, WI, 54406, United States
Grow Solar is a solar group-buying and education program that makes going solar easier. Offered by the Midwest Renewable Energy Association and the City of Stevens Point, property owners in Marathon, Lincoln, Portage, Waushara, Waupaca, and Wood Counties can pool their buying power to secure significant discounts that make installing solar more affordable.
Join us at an upcoming Power Hour to learn more:
Wednesday, August 13 | 5:30 p.m. | Central Waters Brewery | REGISTER TO ATTEND
Learn More

Solar Next Door: An Overview of Solar in Southeastern Wisconsin
2025-08-18 17:00 - 20:00 | Whitewater Innovation Center, 1221 Innovation Dr, Whitewater, WI, 53190, United States
Monday, August 18 | 5–8 p.m. | Whitewater Innovation Center
Join the Wisconsin Farmers Union for a community information session on large scale solar.

Overview of existing and potential known projects
Adjacent landowner considerations
Lease negotiation education
Community power, protections, agreements, and maximizing benefits

To help plan for refreshments, please RSVP to Tara by calling or texting 715-492-0329
