Renewable energy and organized labor each will have a presence at the fourth ISH North America trade show Sept. 28-30 at Chicago's McCormick Place convention center, North Hall. More than 180 first-time exhibitors will be at the show, which features products and services related to kitchen and bath, plumbing, commercial/industrial PVF and HVAC.

Show organizer Messe Frankfurt and the BDH -- the Federal Industrial Association of Germany House, Energy and Environmental Technology -- will host a Renewable Energy Feature Area. The pavilion will offer attendees the opportunity to explore advanced energy alternatives.

The industry's responsibility for the environment, the protection and efficient use of scarce energy resources and skyrocketing energy prices are drawing public attention to energy-efficient systems and renewable energies, show management said, and it is increasingly important that the industry be aware of its various options. Solar thermal, wood stoves, heat pumps, ventilation systems with heat recovery and hydrogen fuel cells will be the focal points of the presentation.

Show sponsors also have designated Sept. 29 as United Association Day to honor the UA, its membership and the training initiatives it has brought to the industry. The cooperation with the UA brings a unique opportunity to contractors visiting this year's show, show management said.

UA General President William Hite will speak at 10:30 a.m. that day at McCormick Place. Following Hite's presentation, the ISH-NA exhibit floor will open. A number of mobile training trailers will be on display, courtesy of UA Training Director Mike Arndt and his staff. These mobile trailers will provide an opportunity for visitors to view current training techniques. The trailers will be on hand with systems simulating conditions and experiences encountered in the field.

The fourth edition of ISH-NA marks a schedule change to a biennial pattern. This new alternate-year schedule answers industry objections to an annul event and has resulted in a significant increase in the number and quality of exhibitors, show management said.

ISH-NA is held in conjunction with the annual conventions of the Plumbing, Heating, Cooling Contractors - National Association; Radiant Panel Association; International Association of Plumbing & Mechanical Officials; American Supply Association; and the Maple Leaf Reception of the Canadian Institute of Plumbing & Heating.

Seminar and show registration is available at www.ish-na.com. Travel and accommodation information, seminar schedule, exhibitor list and show details are also available on the Website.