Adirondack Council’s Sunita Halasz, left, and ANCA’s Carlie Leary discussed climate outreach and resilience findings with attendees at the 2025 conference in Lake Placid. (Provided photo)

LAKE PLACID — The Adirondack North Country Association (ANCA) will host leaders, innovators and community advocates to explore climate and energy solutions that reflect and strengthen community values at the nonprofit’s annual 2026 Climate & Energy Conference. The two-day event will feature tours, presentations and networking opportunities to discuss the timely climate and energy issues our region faces.

The conference will feature interactive panels, field trips and collaborative workshops at the Lake Placid Conference Center on Thursday, May 7 and Friday, May 8. Registration is open at adirondack.org/2026-anca-cec.

“Our conference is more than just showcasing innovation — it’s about the people in our communities,” ANCA Climate & Energy Program Director Jill Henck said. “We want to create space for difficult conversations, especially when communities are weighing the benefits and risks of new technologies in addition to the escalating impacts of climate change. It’s about making sure every community — rural, urban and everything in between — has a voice in shaping the climate solutions that will define our shared future. Our goal is to offer opportunities to engage honestly, grapple with complexity and work toward solutions that respect regional identity while preparing for a rapidly changing future.”

The two-day conference aims for participants to explore themes aligned with climate resilience planning, equitable access to emerging technologies and localized strategies for sustainable infrastructure. The event starts on Thursday with tours offering firsthand exposure to innovative projects where participants will travel in an electric school bus provided by NY Bus Sales. The main tour stops will be at Atlas Hoofed It Farm in Vermontville and the Town of Franklin municipal building, followed by an evening welcome reception at Mount Pisgah Recreation Center in Saranac Lake.

“Communities across the North Country are navigating rapid changes in energy, technology and climate,” ANCA’s Executive Director Elizabeth Cooper said. “We have a responsibility to ensure that innovation strengthens – not replaces – the character and priorities of North Country communities. Our field trips and sessions give participants a chance to experience real projects, ask hard questions and build relationships that last long after the conference ends. We welcome anyone eager to share their voice and experiences to help shape our region.”

On Friday, attendees will have the opportunity to explore a full-day of session tracks focusing on nuclear and energy storage, climate adaptation strategies, sustainable infrastructure, clean energy workforce and community barriers to healthy homes. Conference organizers and guest presenters aim to make this an action-oriented and collaborative event for attendees. There will also be opportunities to network with exhibitors, including contractors, service providers and nonprofits working to strengthen and inspire our communities across New York state.

Companies and organizations that have a service, product or message to share with conference attendees are invited to contact ANCA to exhibit at the event. Questions about the conference, lodging, registration or event sponsorship opportunities may be directed to the ANCA Climate & Energy Communications Coordinator at ndraina@adirondack.org.

To learn more and register, visit adirondack.org/2026-anca-cec. Conference registration costs $250. Participants who find the cost of registration or travel to be a barrier are invited to inquire about financial support. A limited number of rooms are reserved in Lake Placid at The Devlin and Mirror Lake Inn at a special conference rate.