Take a break and enjoy lunch in the Public Power NextTech Expo with our sponsors.

The headlines keep coming about data centers driving massive, sudden load growth and upward rate pressure, along with statements about the predictions being overblown. Hear directly from utility executives about what it takes to deliver reliable electricity to these facilities — including infrastructure requirements and grid planning complexities — and what data center customers are looking for in a utility partner. Gain lessons from recent developments about the on-the-ground realities of infrastructure, load flexibility, contracts, and forecasts.

When disaster strikes, you need to be ready with the knowledge and tools to respond and get your community back on its feet. Preparedness all starts with a robust emergency management plan. Review what elements should be in your plan, how often you should review it, and who needs to be familiar with the plan and how to familiarize the team to it. Also learn about how to engage with the Public Power Mutual Aid Network to effectively request and offer help when a storm hits.

Discover how real-time monitoring of distribution transformers and feeders is affecting grid reliability and customer trust. Dive into utility case studies that show how improved visibility leads to smarter decisions, better outage response, and readiness for DER integration. See how public power uses various operational technologies to monitor their systems and what utilities should expect on the horizon for monitoring assets including substations and feeders.

For utilities with aging equipment and infrastructure, digital asset tracking is vital. Learn how utilities use asset management systems to enhance data insight, transform maintenance programs, enhance reliability, and extend the life of critical T&D assets. Review how asset management software can add value to your operations and what utilities recommend for smooth implementation.

Interest in nuclear energy is gaining as a means to facilitate meeting the increasing energy demand from large loads, including data centers, but turning that interest into reality remains a challenge. Learn what public power entities are doing to bring nuclear projects across the finish line and where the latest advanced nuclear projects stand in terms of technical readiness, supply chain, and public opinion.