This session will highlight the evolving regulatory landscape for fusion energy, key roles fusion centers can play in regional innovation ecosystems, and opportunities for utilities, municipalities, research institutions, and industry to engage with fusion commercialization efforts.

As AI rapidly expands, its policy landscape is increasingly intersecting with energy policy across Congress, DOE, and FERC. This session explores key trends at the crossroads of energy and AI—how they affect public power utilities today, and what leaders need to watch to stay ahead. Learn how emerging rules, load growth considerations, and data and cybersecurity issues are shaping planning and advocacy in a fast‑moving policy environment.

Public power utilities are more than providers of reliable electricity—they are catalysts for local economic growth. This session will explore how public power utilities can leverage infrastructure investments, partnerships, and innovative programs to drive community development, attract businesses, and support workforce readiness. Attendees will gain insights into strategies that align utility operations with broader economic goals, ensuring that communities remain competitive in a rapidly evolving energy landscape.