Energy researchers from across campus will unite May 20 and 21 at the University of Michigan’s Institute for Energy Solutions 2025 Energy Symposium to discuss critical issues in the energy sector. 

Themed “What (Energy Issue) is Keeping You Up at Night?” the symposium will cover topics including AI’s energy demands, the future of nuclear power, cybersecurity for critical grid infrastructure and navigating energy policy in 2025.

The event happens on North Campus, with a special hors d’oeuvres hour and Student Poster Session at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library. Spaces are limited and attendees must register by May 12. 

The symposium offers university researchers an opportunity to identify areas for future collaboration and synergies in research across U-M colleges, schools and departments, including the College of Engineering, School for Environment and Sustainability, Law School, A. Alfred Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning, and UM-Dearborn. It will also host energy leaders from around the U.S. in academia, government, industry and community organizations. 

Katherine Peretick, Michigan Public Service Commissioner and College of Engineering alumna, will give the symposium’s plenary speech to discuss her vision for the future of the energy industry. Also sharing their visions are:

• Karen Thole, Robert J. Vlasic Dean of Engineering, professor of mechanical engineering and of aerospace engineering, College of Engineering.

• Brad Orr, Arthur F. Thurnau Professor; associate vice president for research – natural sciences and engineering, Office of the Vice President for Research, and professor of physics, LSA.

• Johanna Mathieu, associate professor of electrical engineering and computer science, College of Engineering, and center director, Office of the Vice President for Research.

 “The challenges facing our energy system are immense and varied, and we need an all-hands-on-deck approach to ensure a reliable, resilient and secure energy future. The goal of this symposium is to bring together researchers across campus, the region and the country to discuss these critical challenges and develop a plan for action,” Mathieu said.

The institute encourages attendance from all U-M faculty, staff and students who share an interest in advancing transformative energy research. The symposium is also open to existing and potential collaborators from industry, government, community organizations and academia in southeast Michigan.

The Institute for Energy Solutions’ mission is to pursue energy science and technologies to enable, accelerate and inform the transition to an equitable, resilient, clean, affordable and sustainable energy future.

Visit the IES website to learn more about the institute’s efforts to promote energy research on campus, including an active request for proposals for energy-focused living learning laboratories.