ASES SOLAR 2026

SOLAR 2026, the 55th Annual National Solar Conference, is a three-day renewable energy event taking place from 19 to 21 October 2026 at the Palmer Events Center in Austin, Texas, United States. Organised by the American Solar Energy Society (ASES) in partnership with the Texas Solar Energy Society (TXSES), the conference brings together renewable energy professionals, researchers, policymakers, educators, students, and advocates to advance solar-led clean energy solutions. The 2026 edition also coincides with TXSES’s 50th anniversary.

Purpose and Objectives

The primary purpose of the conference is to support knowledge exchange, professional collaboration, and practical progress across solar energy and the wider renewable energy sector. It is designed to connect technical research, industry experience, public policy, workforce development, and community action while advancing ASES’s wider vision of a renewable energy future. The programme also creates opportunities for participants to discuss current technologies, implementation challenges, and equitable pathways for expanding clean and resilient energy systems.

Key Activities

The conference includes technical sessions, plenary talks, professional forums, workshops, oral and poster presentations, exhibitions, field trips, tours, and networking events. Programme themes include solar and storage technologies, grid reliability and flexibility, workforce development, zero-carbon resilient buildings, passive building approaches, and renewable energy policy and finance. SOLAR 2026 also features continuing education opportunities, specialised NABCEP workshops, a career and networking fair, an opening reception, and optional social and community activities.

Significance

The conference is significant because it represents the 55th annual edition of one of the United States’ longest-running national solar gatherings. Its combination of research, industry insight, education, policy, and public advocacy makes it relevant to stakeholders working across the full renewable energy ecosystem. The partnership with TXSES during its 50th anniversary also gives the 2026 edition particular importance for Texas, a state with a long history of solar innovation and rapidly expanding clean energy activity.

Expected Outcomes

Attendees can expect stronger professional networks, updated understanding of solar technologies and policy, and practical learning that can support projects, research, workforce development, and community energy initiatives. The event is intended to help participants exchange technical knowledge, identify collaboration opportunities, gain continuing education credits, and connect with organisations and professionals working toward a more accessible and resilient renewable energy system.

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