Explore the main dynamics driving change in power grids across the United States. From load growth fueled by data centers, growing industrial load, and beneficial electrification, to supply challenges related to costs and interconnection of new assets and the emergence of energy storage and new generation technologies, a multitude of forces are conspiring to create the grid of tomorrow. Dive into what is driving demand and what is putting pressure on aging distribution systems. Gain insight into where emerging generation technologies stand, including advanced geothermal, small modular reactors, and even fusion, and how they may play into your future power supply planning. Review how a host of technologies are changing the relationship between utilities and their customers and discuss strategies for keeping your utility aligned with customer expectations.

Topics:

• Grid structures and regulatory models
• Macro demand drivers (data centers, new industrial load, green hydrogen, electrification)
• Challenges associated with grid technologies and the evolving bulk power supply mix
• New considerations for resource adequacy planning
• Overcoming difficulties in transmission and interconnection of new supply resources

A look at the strategies, structures, and partnerships that strengthen utility resilience before, during, and after an emergency event. Learn how to build readiness during blue sky periods through effective training programs and exercise design. Explore the fundamentals of the Incident Command System, the role of Emergency Operations Centers, and how utilities can integrate into broader emergency management frameworks. Also examine what makes for a culture of preparedness, including expectations and roles for utility staff.

Take a detailed walk through the disaster recovery and public assistance processes, including what to expect working with FEMA, how to use various APPA resources, and lessons from responses to recent events. Gain practical insight into using the Public Assistance Program and Policy Guide, including how to document damages and manage recovery operations efficiently. Discuss the importance of building strong community partnerships and strategies for how utilities can collaborate with local emergency managers, state agencies, and mutual aid networks to enhance coordination and improve outcomes.

Topics:

• ICS fundamentals and utility integration with emergency management
• EOC roles, activation, and coordination
• Disaster recovery and public assistance resources
• Strengthening partnerships with local and state agencies and mutual aid networks

Emerging electric loads — such as data centers, EV charging, distributed solar, and energy storage — are rapidly reshaping demand patterns and forcing utilities to rethink rate structures, infrastructure planning, and long term strategy. With powerful new economic drivers behind the growth in artificial intelligence, electrification, and more, utilities are facing both unprecedented opportunities for economic development and complex challenges in continuing to provide reliable, affordable power for their communities. Explore what customers with high load factors need from the grid and how you can transform those needs into thoughtfully designed rates, line extension policies, and contracts that balance opportunity and risks, protect existing ratepayers, and still offer a competitive value proposition for attracting and retaining large power users.

Topics:

• Data center and other large load customer characteristics
• Developing standby rates for customers with dispatchable onsite generation
• Economic development rates that support cost recovery and fairness
• Integrating solar and other distributed energy resources to contribute to the system
• Incentives, discounts, and competitive rate structures
• Approaches for mitigating risk with large load customers

Public power leaders are operating in one of the most dynamic periods in electric industry history. Rapid technological advances, shifting policies, and evolving community expectations are reshaping how utilities plan, invest, and deliver value. Get a comprehensive overview of the strategic planning practices that can help you navigate uncertainty and position your utility for long term success. Examine the essential elements of an effective strategic planning process, including how to build alignment around a shared vision and mission, identify strategic priorities, and engage the right stakeholders. Review how strategic planning has evolved and how to ensure your planning leverages the advantages of the public power model in supporting your communities. Walk through a straightforward, eight step planning model designed for utilities of all sizes and discuss practical methods for distinguishing true strategic priorities from distractions. Discuss how to move from strategy to action — setting direction, defining goals, and translating ideas into concrete steps that strengthen financial resilience, operational performance, and community impact.

Topics:

• Building alignment around a shared vision, mission, and strategic priorities
• Engaging key stakeholders and understanding the advantages of the public power model
• An eight-step strategic planning model for utilities
• Distinguishing true strategic priorities from distractions
• Moving from strategy to action through goal setting and implementation