PNNL

Wind turbines used as distributed energy resources—also called distributed wind—produce electricity that is consumed on-site or locally, as opposed to large, centralized wind farms that generate bulk electricity for distant end users. This brings electricity close to the people who use it, strengthening the nation’s domestic energy supply and providing electricity directly to the American people.

The Summit is organized into three dedicated blocks of time: Share, Exchange, and Explore. During every block, three concurrent breakout sessions focus on the core themes of people, technology, and economic value, offering participants a chance to dive deep into topics that matter most to their interests and work.

Agenda

Welcome (11:00-11:30 ETD)

Share (11:30-12:30 EDT)

Get up to speed on what’s shaping the distributed wind energy landscape. Join leading experts as they share their latest insights, research, and real-world experience.

Unlocking Distributed Wind Potential with Federal and State Programs

Federal, state, and utility incentives and policies can significantly reduce the cost of installing distributed wind energy systems. This session highlights key programs available for distributed wind, with presenters sharing their historical impact, current offerings, and important considerations for applicants.

• Moderator: Brittany Davis (PNNL)

• Panelists: Lindsay Sheridan (PNNL), Ian Baring-Gould (NREL),  Maya Noesen (California Public Utilities Commission)

Current Trends in Distributed Wind Energy Technologies

Distributed wind energy is a scalable technology that can serve a wide range of applications and integrate with other distributed energy resources. This session will showcase current trends in distributed wind technologies, interconnection processes, and the role of distributed wind in hybrid energy systems.

• Moderator: Sarah Barrows (PNNL)

• Panelists: Kamila Kazimierczuk (PNNL), Jen King (NREL),  Brent Summerville (NREL)

Regional and Community Perspectives on Distributed Wind Energy

Communities and states are actively exploring the potential of distributed wind to meet their unique energy needs. This session brings together voices from state and local communities to share the opportunities and challenges they’ve encountered with distributed wind, as well as key considerations for others interested in exploring it in their own areas.

• Moderator: Suzanne MacDonald (NREL)

• Panelists: Melissa Birch (Clean Energy Resource Teams - Minnesota), Kylah McNabb (Oklahoma Renewable Energy Council), Callie Fishburn (Bennington County Regional Commission)

Break (12:30-12:45 EDT)

Exchange (12:45-1:45 EDT)

Join Exchange sessions for interactive, roundtable-style discussions featuring panelists and participants. These sessions are designed to encourage open dialogue and direct engagement.

Empowering Rural Economic Development

Agricultural and rural organizations, such as extension offices and farmers unions, translate research into practical, data-driven guidance for agricultural producers, small business owners, consumers, and more. This session features a panel of experts who will discuss the roles and functions of these organizations and explore opportunities where they intersect with distributed wind energy.

• Moderator: Wes Eaton (NREL)

• Panelists: Ethan Thies (Iowa State University), Guillermo Metz (Cornell University), Daniel Ciolkosz (Penn State University), Danielle Isaacson (Minnesota Farmers Union)

Distributed Wind Stories from the Field

Distributed wind technologies serve both conventional and innovative applications to meet diverse customer needs, including those of schools and universities. This session features first-hand accounts from those who installed distributed wind projects on their campuses, sharing their unique experiences through compelling case studies.

• Moderator: Suzanne MacDonald (NREL)

• Panelists: Michael Reese (University of Minnesota West Central Research and Outreach Center),  Rob Hanson (Carleton College)

Building the Distributed Wind Workforce 

Expanding visibility and training is essential to developing a skilled workforce that supports the growth of distributed wind projects. This session will explore strategies to raise awareness, attract new talent, and create sustainable career pathways to strengthen the industry over the next decade.

• Moderator: Brittany Davis (PNNL)

• Panelists: Kirsten Dodson (Lipscomb University), Remy Pangle (Repowering Schools), Ryan Storke (Storke LLC)  

Lunch Break (1:45-2:15 EDT)

Explore (2:15-3:00 EDT)

Learn about tools and communication strategies that can be used to improve outcomes for distributed wind technologies. These sessions will focus on interactive demonstrations, tutorials, and thought exercises.

Demonstrating Value: Practical Tools for Distributed Wind Economics

These tools are designed to help you understand the economic potential of a distributed wind project early on—but they’re not a substitute for working with an experienced distributed wind energy developer or installer. Instead, they can help you enter those conversations informed and confident.

• Moderator: Sophie Farr (NREL)

• Panelists: Charles Newcomb (Hoss Consulting), Sarah Barrows (PNNL), JD Laurence-Chasen (NREL)

Planning for Resilience and Hybridization

Distributed wind technologies can complement solar PV and battery storage to enhance overall system resiliency. This session will demonstrate tools for resilience planning and optimizing hybrid power plants.

• Moderator: Erik Anderson II (PNNL)

• Panelists: Kaitlin Brunik (NREL), Becca Avery (INL)

Distinguishing Distributed Wind: An Exploration of Language for Effective Communication

Effectively communicating the value of distributed wind starts with understanding how it differs from utility-scale wind. In this session, participants will explore key distinctions between wind sectors and explore language that resonates with various audiences.

Moderator: Jacob Garbe (PNNL)

Wrap Up and Closing (3:00-3:15 EDT)

Check back here for more information and updates (agenda, speakers, schedule, etc.). In the meantime, if you have questions or are interested in participating, please contact Brittany Davis or Danielle Preziuso.

The 2025 Distributed Wind Energy Summit, hosted virtually by PNNL in collaboration with the NREL, is part of the National Distributed Wind Network under the Department of Energy-funded SEND project.