Event Description

The 3rd Annual Grid Modernization Forum, May 23-24, 2018 in Chicago, closely examines lessons learned to date by industry leaders pushing the fronters of grid modernization and reliability. As in previous editions, key technology innovators and executives will come together to share perspectives on how best to leverage smart grid investment, effectively engage customers, and meet the challenges of the changing energy ecosystem.

Case studies of improved network performance, resiliency, outage restoration, and distributed energy resource (DER) integration will be examined with an eye toward determining best practices and evaluating technology advances for possible implementation. As in prior years, this is a unique opportunity to network with top industry professionals who are leading the way toward effective grid modernization and the integrated, interoperable, resilient energy network of tomorrow.

Topics to be Addressed Include:

Evaluating and deploying emerging technologies
Managing and integrating distributed energy resources
Energy storage advances for improved grid performance and flexibility
Achieving the end-to-end Digital Utility vision
Best practices and strategies for enhancing grid responsiveness and reliability
Blockchain applications for the energy industry
Advanced communications networks for next-gen services and apps
Network architectures for the evolving energy ecosystem
Advanced grid sensing, measurement and control technologies
Enabling consumer choice while controlling costs and enhancing efficiency
Microgrids as a strategy for utilities and C&I customers going forward
Cybersecurity challenges and real-time response to disruptions
Design and grid modeling tools
Transactive Energy and other models for next-gen services
Potential changes to existing regulatory models
Vehicle-to-grid and other key EV developments
De-carbonizing the network and integrating carbon pricing into market structures

Illinois' Grid Modernization Leadership: Illinois is ranked 2nd in the nation for its grid modernization policies, investments, and activities, according to the 2017 National Grid Modernization Index.* This -- plus the recently launched NextGrid initiative by the Illinois Commerce Commission -- makes Illinois an ideal location to learn from the leaders at the vanguard of grid modernization today.

In-Depth Education, Focused Networking: A careful balance of in-depth presentations together with ample time for networking make this Forum an ideal opportunity to learn the very latest advances and establish relationships with key executives.

Reality-Based Success Strategies: The emphasis throughout is on the real-world case studies and best practices for delivering cost savings, integrating renewables, driving efficiency, and maximizing customer engagement.

Latest and Greatest: Technology innovators, startups, and industry leaders will be discussing the very latest tech advances and applications for taking the network to the next level of excellence.

Forum Audience:

Network strategies and executives at investor-owned, municipal, and rural utilities
Grid operations engineers and directors
Service and network planners
Consultants and system integrators
Regulatory and policymakers
Technology innovators and equipment vendors
Energy storage, communications, and power control solutions providers
Government agency representatives
Researchers and university professionals
Renewable energy providers and technology vendors
Financial and investment industry professionals