LOCALadk Magazine

Below: North Countr y Clean Energy Hub at site visit for critical home repairs, evaluat- ing health and safety of home – a session topic at this year's 2026 conference. Attendees learn about community compost- ing in action at the Lake PLacid HIgh School Drum Composter. LOCALadk 19 Climate & Energy Conference will have three tracks, one of which will focus on community. One session example includes a showcase of Re- gional Clean Energy Hubs from across New York State who have implemented initiatives to support residents experiencing health and safety concerns within their homes, which directly impacts their ability to access energy efficiency programs. Attendees can learn the approaches of these initiatives in addition to stacking additional local, state, and federal funding to maxi- mize impact. Contractors will also have an opportunity to participate in a roundtable where they can make connections to further workforce support and devel- opment. What we see as one of the most exciting aspects of this event is the guided experiences. We plan to host attendees at Atlas Hoofed It Farm in Vermontville and the recently electrified Franklin Town Hall with transportation provided by an electric school bus. This is sustainability lived, not just discussed – protecting places starts with experiencing them. We want attend- ees to step outside, breathe the fresh air, and learn from a farm that embodies the balance of innovation and community values. Creating space for connection and resilience It's not always easy to access or navigate the climate and energy landscape. On top of program and region- al barriers, it can make us feel isolated. Neighbors retreat from conversations that once felt easy; munic- ipalities battle low engagement; community workers face burnout. Our conference is a bridge. We inten- tionally build in time for reflection, conversation, and relationship-building because we know climate adap- tation and mitigation demand collective effort. "Communities across the North Country are navigat- ing rapid changes in energy, technology, and climate," said Elizabeth Cooper, ANCA's Executive Director. "We have a responsibility to ensure that innovation strengthens — not replaces — the character and pri- orities of North Country communities. Our field trips and sessions give participants a chance to experience real projects, ask hard questions, and build relation- ships that last long after the conference ends. We welcome anyone eager to share their voice and experi- ences to help shape our region." These conversations and relationships help buoy our communities in uncertain times. Resilience has always been part of the Adirondack identity, shaped by the very real barriers our region faces – from geographic isolation to aging infrastructure to limited economic resources. Now more than ever, we need solutions that meet the climate and infrastructure challenges unique to this place we call home. We warmly welcome all members of our community to join us! Together we can create momentum and continue building the relationships, knowledge, and shared purpose that will carry our region forward. t Date: Thursday, May 7 to Friday, May 8, 2026 Where: Lake Placid Conference Center Please register at: adirondack.org/2026-anca-cec

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