The Advanced Grid Institute (AGI) will be holding its annual conference, AGI DAY 2026, Aug. 19 on the Washington State University Tri-Cities campus. AGI is a joint institute between WSU and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), bringing together researchers from both institutions to address some of the nation’s most pressing power grid challenges.
This year’s conference will focus on how artificial intelligence can help make the nation’s power grid smarter, more reliable, and better equipped to meet growing energy demands. The program opens with remarks from Sandra Haynes, executive vice president for Washington State University Statewide Campuses, and Angela Becker-Dippmann, interim associate laboratory director for Energy and Environment at PNNL, followed by a keynote address from Larry Bekkedahl, senior vice president of Advanced Energy Delivery at the Edison Electric Institute.
Throughout the day, speakers from WSU, PNNL, utilities and industry will discuss artificial intelligence, the future of grid operations, and emerging energy technologies. Featured speakers include Noel Schulz, director of WSU’s Institute for Northwest Energy Futures. The main event runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the WSU Tri-Cities East Building auditorium, followed by a reception and student and faculty poster session from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the WSU Wine Science Center.
“The power grid faces greater pressure — and greater opportunity — than ever. AGI Day is where innovation, practical expertise, and emerging technologies come together to tackle the grid’s most pressing challenges. We invite you to join us and be part of the conversation,” said Anamika Dubey.”
Dubey, a WSU professor of electrical engineering, has served as AGI co-director since 2024. She leads the institute alongside Jeff Dagle, a chief electrical engineer at PNNL who previously served as AGI co-director from 2018 to 2024 before returning to the role this year.
“It’s a really exciting time for the power grid,” said Dagle, “There are enormous changes happening across the energy landscape, and AGI is well positioned to bring together the expertise and partnerships needed to help address those challenges.”
Registration for the event is now open.
