Community Engagement
Almost nine out of 10 customers who responded (87.5%) to a recent survey rated Oregon public power utility Springfield Utility Board’s overall job as positive.

Opening General Session

Welcome to Boston

A Legacy of Service, A Future of Opportunity

Politics with a Punch: Insider Insights on Today’s Top News 

Get an unfiltered, insider look at what’s really happening behind the headlines with renowned journalist Anna Palmer. With years spent covering the power dynamics, decision-makers, and deal-making that shape national policy, Palmer brings a front-row perspective on how Washington works (and sometimes doesn’t). Get a breakdown of the forces driving today’s most important political and policy conversations — what matters, what’s noise, and what leaders in every sector should be paying attention to — from someone who regularly engages with key players on Capitol Hill and in Washington.
 

Scott Corwin
Scott Corwin
President & CEO | American Public Power Association
Anna Palmer
Anna Palmer
Founder & CEO | Punchbowl News
Generation
A recently announced U.S.-Japan trade agreement calls for the construction of a 9.2- gigawatt natural gas power plant in Ohio.

Welcome Reception: A 360° View of the City

Kick off APPA’s National Conference high above the skyline at View Boston — an unforgettable 360‑degree experience perched atop one of New England’s tallest buildings. Take in sweeping, breathtaking views of the city while enjoying great food, great company, and a fresh perspective on Boston’s vibrant energy. It’s the perfect place to connect, unwind, and soak in the city before the week begins. Join us for a night your camera and your colleagues will thank you for!

All conference participants and guests are welcome.

Federal Regulatory Update

Stay current on the regulatory issues shaping public power. Get a concise overview of key FERC and NERC priorities, emerging reliability and market topics, and the federal trends affecting utility planning and operations. Learn how federal antitrust reviews intersect with FERC oversight — an increasingly important factor as utilities pursue new generation and infrastructure projects in a high‑demand environment. Gain practical insight into what’s changing, what to watch, and how to prepare for evolving federal scrutiny of utility actions and investments.

Federal Legislative Update: From Congress to Your Community

Hear what’s happening in Congress this year on issues that impact public power and your utility, including tax and finance, permitting reform, supply chain challenges, and grid security. Discover how you can add your voice and show Congress the power and needs of your community. 

Environmental Regulations and Public Power

Get the latest look at the administration’s regulatory agenda and what changes would mean for public power. Discuss how public power can brace for these changes and embrace potential opportunities that arise from new rules and compliance.

How Utilities Are Using AI

There are myriad practical ways to incorporate AI into utility operations, from tools to bolster reliability, improve efficiency, and support customer service. Hear about real-world applications — from demand forecasting and anomaly detection to predictive maintenance, customer service automation, and energy theft detection. Learn what insights utilities have already gained from using AI and advanced analytics for grid modernization, including what precautionary steps and preparation is required before diving in. 

The Latest on FEMA and Disaster Recovery

Get an update on the latest requirements and process for working with FEMA before, during, and after a disaster. Walk through current rules, documentation and reporting expectations, and best practices for navigating the reimbursement process. Participate in a quick hot wash on lessons from those involved in emergency response in 2025 and gain practical guidance to strengthen preparedness, improve response coordination, and avoid common pitfalls in federal recovery procedures.

The Current State of Nuclear Energy

Get a comparative overview of the small modular reactor and other advanced nuclear technologies in various stages of development and deployment across the globe. Learn about the major types of advanced nuclear technologies, including the advantages and challenges of each design and where they stand in the development pipeline. Discuss how the different technologies can align with your utility’s decarbonization and grid modernization goals and how the evolving regulatory and investment landscape could affect adoption.