Boulder – September 24, 2026 -- The American Solar Energy Society (ASES) has finalized the program for SOLAR 2026, its national conference running October 19-21 at the Palmer Events Center in Austin, Texas, held in partnership with the Texas Solar Energy Society (TXSES) as the state chapter marks its 50th anniversary.
Themed 'Solar for All, Y'all,' the three-day event will organize sessions around three subthemes: Advancing Access for All, Expanding Education for All, and Addressing New Challenges Affecting All, with the latter track covering data center power demand, artificial intelligence loads, and extreme weather impacts on grid infrastructure.
Bill McKibben headlines keynote lineup on Texas solar growth
Author Bill McKibben, whose book 'Here Comes the Sun' addresses climate transition, will deliver a keynote examining lessons from Texas's rapid solar expansion. Additional plenary panels will focus on how data centers are reshaping energy demand and how Texas grid operators are integrating supply and demand at scale.
NABCEP-accredited training and career fair target workforce pipeline
The program includes NABCEP-accredited courses on photovoltaics, the National Electrical Code, and energy storage led by instructor Sean White. A free, public Career & Networking Fair will connect students and professionals with employers across the renewable energy sector. Additional programming includes the ASES Awards Luncheon, the Women in Solar Energy (WISE) Luncheon, a Fellows Reception, and the ASES Shine on Solar Gala, a fundraising dinner and live auction supporting ASES education and equity programs.
TXSES marks 50 years of advocacy with dedicated award ceremony
TXSES will hold a 50th Anniversary Award Ceremony honoring five decades of solar advocacy in Texas. Patrice 'Pete' Parsons, SOLAR 2026 Co-Conference Chair and Executive Director of TXSES, said the milestone anniversary coinciding with a national gathering represents a significant moment for the state's renewable energy community.
Venue runs on 100% renewable energy with on-site solar array
The Palmer Events Center holds LEED Gold certification, operates on 100% renewable energy through Austin Energy's Green Choice Program, and features a 185 kW on-site photovoltaic array.
Discounted hotel rates expire September 28, one property already sold out
Conference hotel rooms are available at the Renaissance Austin Hotel for $259 per night and the Hilton Austin for $289 per night, with booking deadlines of Monday, September 28, 2026. The Hampton Inn & Suites Austin Downtown has already sold out its conference room block.