On May 28, 2025, policy leaders, industry experts and more will gather at the 2025 Emerging Issues Forum: Future Forward Energy to discuss the state’s energy landscape in the areas of affordability, workforce and resiliency, especially in response to Hurricane Helene and other weather events that have impacted our state. To learn more and register, visit go.ncsu.edu/2025forum .
The Challenge
- North Carolina’s population is projected to reach 14 million by the year 2050. Population growth will be uneven across the state, but all 100 counties will have infrastructure needs.
- Electricity demand in North Carolina is growing at the fastest rate seen in 30 years. Expected load growth by 2030 is now eight times higher than the expectations set in 2022’s North Carolina Carbon Plan, driven by an influx of energy-intensive businesses.
- Industries and businesses coming to North Carolina will require a trained workforce ready to fill the energy jobs of the future.
- North Carolina’s electric grid is aging and needs to be improved and expanded to meet our growing needs.
Who Should Attend the Forum?
Since it started in 1986, the Emerging Issues Forum has attracted statewide and national leaders in business, education, government, workforce development and more. Anyone interested in connecting with others on topics related to North Carolina’s future prosperity is encouraged to attend.
General Information
- Name: 2025 Emerging Issues Forum: Future Forward Energy
- Website: go.ncsu.edu/2025forum
- Date: Wednesday, May 28, 2025
- Time: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
- Location: NC State University McKimmon Center, 1101 Gorman Street, Raleigh, NC 27606
- Registration Rates:
- $325: General Registration
- $1,625: General Registration Group Pricing (six tickets for the price of five)
- $50 Student Tickets
