Opening Keynote Session

Wednesday |  September 16, 2026
9:00 am - 10:50 am

Inspiring Keynotes . New Perspectives . Networking

The Opening Session is not just a formality, it's a crucial part of the conference experience. Embrace the opportunity to learn, connect, and grow both personally and professionally. Hear influential and inspiring keynote speakers that share their insights, experiences, and vision, leaving you motivated and energized. Set the tone of the conference by introducing yourself to new connections and catching up with industry friends. This session sets the stage for a diverse range of presentations given throughout the event, giving you different perspectives and ideas to take back to the office. This session is a memorable part of the conference, and hopefully one you will never forget!

2026 Keynote Speakers

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Gavin McCormick

Co-Founder and Executive Director of WattTime.

Gavin McCormick is cofounder and Executive Director of WattTime, a not-for-profit AI tech startup. WattTime's emissions-reducing technology is currently used in over 1 billion devices worldwide, including over half of all renewable energy projects in the United States. TIME named it one of the best inventions of 2025.

Gavin also co-founded Climate TRACE, a coalition of more than 150 universities, NGOs, and other scientists using satellites and AI to monitor global greenhouse gas emissions. Climate TRACE provides companies, governments, and journalists with free, detailed monthly emissions monitoring for nearly every major emitting facility on the planet. Fast Company named it the #5 most innovative company in the world.

Read full bio.

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Opening Remarks

Bill Kent, CEM

Executive Director, Association of Energy Engineers

Read his bio