The Center for Energy Education invites the public to explore the ideas, technologies, and partnerships shaping the region’s energy future at 2026 EnergyFEST: The Future Is Fully Charged.
The free event will take place Thursday, October 1, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at C4EE, located at 460 Airport Road in Roanoke Rapids.
EnergyFEST is C4EE’s flagship annual gathering for clean energy education, workforce development, and regional economic opportunity. More than 1,000 attendees are expected, including policymakers, industry and utility leaders, educators, students, community organizations, and residents gathering for a day focused on the role of energy innovation in rural communities.
“EnergyFEST creates a space where people can connect energy issues to their everyday lives, their communities, and the opportunities ahead,” said Mozine Lowe, executive director of the Center for Energy Education. “By bringing residents, students, educators, policymakers, and industry professionals together, we can make these conversations more accessible and build partnerships that strengthen rural communities.”
Floyd B. McKissick Jr., North Carolina Utilities commissioner, will deliver the keynote address, bringing a statewide perspective to discussions about energy infrastructure, community impact, and the investments shaping North Carolina’s future.
This year’s program will explore how energy developments are shaping agriculture, education, and rural communities. A featured panel discussion titled Powering Our Farms will examine clean, sustainable energy solutions that support modern agriculture and strengthen rural resilience. The event will also spotlight the 2026 National KidWind winners as they present SunHaven, their award-winning Solar Trailer Park Community project. Additionally, a discussion on environmental justice will address how energy development and environmental decisions affect rural residents and communities.
EnergyFEST 2026 will mark the public opening of C4EE’s newly renovated Innovation Center, a research and learning space designed to make energy technologies practical and accessible. During the event, attendees can tour the Innovation Center and explore do-it-yourself solar solutions for homes, farms, and everyday energy needs. The Innovation Center will serve as C4EE’s new hub for Solar DIY workshops.
The day will also feature C4EE’s Clean Power Avenue of Flags, performances by area students and JROTC programs, and exhibitor stations where attendees can connect with community organizations, educational partners, and energy-sector leaders from across the region.
2026 EnergyFEST is free and open to the public.
Registration is available at https://bit.ly/26EFc
