emPOWER Arkansas Conference & Expo 2026
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Early bird registration for both AAEA members and non-members is now open for the emPOWER Arkansas Conference & Expo on the conference webpage: https://www.arkansasadvancedenergy.com/arkansas-advanced.... We will share more details about programming and schedule as it becomes available.
ABOUT:
The conference is an annual draw for energy leaders and experts across the state to network, engage in productive discussions about energy in Arkansas, and gain access to valuable resources and connections. Conference topics will include energy policy, resource planning, transmission, grid reliability, energy affordability, workforce development, economic development, financing opportunities, energy efficiency, renewable energy, and industry trends. A detailed agenda will be released in the coming months, with programming centered on strategies to help Arkansas meet rising energy demand while supporting continued economic growth.
According to Grid Strategies' November 2025 Power Demand Forecast, U.S. electricity demand is projected to grow by an average of 5.7 percent annually between 2025 and 2030, with peak demand increasing by 166 GW. Arkansas Advanced Energy recently released its first State of the Industry Report, highlighting the state's evolving energy supply and demand landscape and the opportunities and challenges ahead.
In addition to conference programming, the event will feature the emPOWER Arkansas Expo, a hands-on industry exposure experience for students, job seekers, educators, and workforce partners through Arkansas Advanced Energy Foundation's SkillStream program. The 2025 expo welcomed more than 200 students from across Arkansas, along with job seekers interested in pursuing careers in the energy sector. According to the U.S. Department of Energy's 2024 U.S. Energy and Employment Report, energy jobs grew by 4.2 percent in 2023, more than double the overall U.S. economic growth rate.
ABOUT:
The conference is an annual draw for energy leaders and experts across the state to network, engage in productive discussions about energy in Arkansas, and gain access to valuable resources and connections. Conference topics will include energy policy, resource planning, transmission, grid reliability, energy affordability, workforce development, economic development, financing opportunities, energy efficiency, renewable energy, and industry trends. A detailed agenda will be released in the coming months, with programming centered on strategies to help Arkansas meet rising energy demand while supporting continued economic growth.
According to Grid Strategies' November 2025 Power Demand Forecast, U.S. electricity demand is projected to grow by an average of 5.7 percent annually between 2025 and 2030, with peak demand increasing by 166 GW. Arkansas Advanced Energy recently released its first State of the Industry Report, highlighting the state's evolving energy supply and demand landscape and the opportunities and challenges ahead.
In addition to conference programming, the event will feature the emPOWER Arkansas Expo, a hands-on industry exposure experience for students, job seekers, educators, and workforce partners through Arkansas Advanced Energy Foundation's SkillStream program. The 2025 expo welcomed more than 200 students from across Arkansas, along with job seekers interested in pursuing careers in the energy sector. According to the U.S. Department of Energy's 2024 U.S. Energy and Employment Report, energy jobs grew by 4.2 percent in 2023, more than double the overall U.S. economic growth rate.
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Where is it happening?
Central Arkansas Library System, 100 S Rock St,Little Rock,AR,United States
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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Host or PublisherArkansas Advanced Energy Association
