Thank You for Attending the Executive Partner Summit
Thank You for Being with Us This Year
Across the panels, keynotes, and conversations throughout Austin, it was energizing to see leaders from every corner of the power ecosystem come together and share ideas so openly.
When our industry aligns and exchanges perspectives, we put ourselves in a stronger position to deliver more reliable outcomes for the neighbors and communities who depend on us nationwide.
We hope the connections made here spark continued dialogue and collaboration in the months ahead.
Here’s to everything we’ll build together on the road to EPS 2027.
Powering Innovation through Connection
The 2026 Executive Partner Summit brings together regulators, grid operators, utilities, and industry leaders to examine how the U.S. power system is responding to rapid, AI-driven load growth. This year’s sessions focus on practical partnership models that are helping deliver power faster, manage interconnection challenges, and maintain reliability at scale.
Attendees will hear how regions such as PJM, MISO, SPP, and ERCOT are planning for unprecedented demand, while also gaining clarity on electric rate impacts and affordability. Throughout the program, speakers will highlight how strong community engagement and transparency have become essential to successful energy and data center development.
Powerhouse Speakers
The 2026 Executive Partner Summit features a highimpact lineup of leaders shaping the future of energy and data center infrastructure. The program opens with Blake Nixon, President and CEO of Geronimo Power, and David Reamer, Chief Development Officer, outlining Geronimo’s evolving strategy for hyperscale growth.
Attendees will hear directly from David Rosner, Commissioner at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, alongside senior leaders from PJM, MISO, SPP, and ERCOT on how grids are planning for unprecedented demand.
The Summit also includes a policy conversation with Congressman Dusty Johnson and a market outlook from Chris Seiple, Vice Chairman at Wood Mackenzie, offering national perspective on reliability, investment, and the path forward.
Experience Hill Country
Set against the stunning backdrop of Texas Hill Country, this year’s Summit blends strategic conversations with time to recharge and reconnect. Between sessions, enjoy world-class resort amenities at the Omni Barton Creek Spa and Resort. Play a round on one of four premier golf courses and take part in curated social networking activities designed to foster meaningful connections.
- Pit Masters BBQ Class: Experience a 90-minute, high-energy Texas BBQ class with expert pitmasters, live demos, a take-home guidebook, and a full BBQ feast.
- Wild West Adventure: Experience authentic Austin cowboy culture with guided horseback riding, shotgun trap shooting, and Tex-Mex food at a Texas Hill Country ranch.
- Golf at Barton Creek: Tee off on one of two championship Texas Hill Country courses with pristine fairways, and great food for an unforgettable day on the course.
A backdrop built for big moments
This year’s setting in Texas is ideal for focused discussion and meaningful inspiration. In between sessions, you’ll have time to enjoy the resort’s amenities, play a round on its four premier golf courses, and take part in curated activities designed for networking and connection.
Experience Hill Country
This year’s backdrop provides an ideal environment for focused discussion and meaningful connections. In between sessions, you’ll have time to enjoy the resort’s amenities, play a round on its four premier golf courses, and take part in curated activities designed for networking and connection.
Host Venue
Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa, Austin TX (8212 Barton Club Dr, Austin, TX 78735)
Set in the scenic Texas Hill Country just 20 minutes from downtown Austin, Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa offers a luxurious and relaxing retreat for conference attendees. The resort features elegant accommodations, multiple dining options, four championship golf courses, and a full-service spa. Guests can enjoy hiking trails, pools, and other recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for both work and leisure during your stay. Discounted rooms will be available for guests attending the 2026 Executive Partner Summit. Additional information will be provided once registration opens.
Event Schedule
Wednesday, April 22, 2026
4:00pm
Hotel Check-In Begins for Omni Guests
7:00pm – 10:00pm
Welcome Reception and Badge Pickup
Thursday, April 23, 2026
7:30am – 8:30am
Breakfast and Morning Networking
8:30am – 9:30am
Serving the Future: Geronimo’s Strategic Growth in the Hyperscale Era
Blake Nixon and David Reamer will open the 2026 Executive Partner Summit by outlining Geronimo Power’s strategic evolution since its acquisition by Brookfield and examining how changing market dynamics have shaped its approach to development and partnership. While remaining farmer‑founded and community‑focused, Geronimo Power has solidified its position as an industry leader, delivering powered land solutions for hyperscalers and data center customers while partnering closely with utilities and the communities they serve. This session will introduce the agenda for the remainder of the Summit and highlight the speakers who will help guide conversations over the coming days. Drawing on real‑world examples from three active data center projects, the discussion will highlight how distinct utility relationships demand different development strategies, underscoring the value of a flexible, non‑monolithic business model. With more than 20 years of development experience, Geronimo Power continues to lead local development, enable scalable hyperscale growth, and deliver solutions both in front of and behind the meter.
Opening Remarks: Blake Nixon, President and CEO, Geronimo Power
Keynote: David Reamer, Chief Development Officer, Geronimo Power
9:30am – 10:30am
Power at Pace: Partnership Models for AI-Driven Load Growth
As data center growth accelerates alongside AI and high performance computing, the electric power system is reaching a critical inflection point. Utilities and developers face growing pressure to deliver power faster, more reliably, and at scale, often within planning frameworks not designed for today’s pace of demand. In response, data center developers, generation developers, and utilities are exploring new partnership models to better align load growth with available supply. This panel will examine how these partnerships support faster power delivery by combining onsite generation with traditional utility supply and reducing interconnection delays through closer coordination of generation and load development. The discussion will also explore how localized, flexible resources can improve grid reliability and limit infrastructure upgrades, while supporting community engagement, economic growth, and scalable power solutions for the future of energy infrastructure.
Moderator: Ryan Butterfield, Vice President, Strategy, Geronimo Power
Panelists:
- Adam Tromblay, CEO and General Manager, Nobles Cooperative Electric
- Steve Schoeneck, VP Retail Operations, Otter Tail Power Company
- Javier Fernandez, President and CEO, Omaha Public Power District
10:30am – 10:45am
Networking Break
10:45am – 11:15am
A Federal View of the Grid: FERC Perspectives on Large Load Growth and Reliability
As data driven industries expand and largescale data center development accelerates, the electric grid is confronting unprecedented load growth that challenges existing planning, operational, and regulatory frameworks. While demand can materialize rapidly, transmission and generation investments require long lead times, creating a growing mismatch between system readiness and commercial timelines. The size and concentration of these loads also raise fundamental questions around reliability, cost allocation, and equity, with implications for utilities, customers, and regulators alike. In this keynote, FERC Commissioner David Rosner will examine how federal policy and regulatory tools can help address these pressures, exploring the role of coordination, cost recovery, and market design in supporting grid reliability while enabling economic growth, national security objectives, and a fair transition as demand continues to evolve.
Keynote: David Rosner, Commissioner, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
Moderator: Matt Morais, Senior Director of Policy, Geronimo Power
11:15am – 12:15pm
Reliability at Scale: How ISOs and RTOs Are Preparing for the Next Wave of Demand
As hyperscale technologies drive unprecedented nearterm and forecasted increases in electricity demand, the nation’s electric grids are entering a period of heightened strain and structural change. While all regions of the country are seeing interest from hyperscale loads, certain competitive regions of the country are forecasting significant growth. PJM, MISO, SPP, and ERCOT are expecting substantial growth. In response to these circumstances the ISOs and RTOs are actively exploring effective means of meeting these challenges with their stakeholders and regulators. This panel will examine these load growth challenges through both a national lens and the perspectives of individual regions. Panelists will discuss key policy considerations, market reforms, and specific initiatives under evaluation across PJM, MISO, SPP, and ERCOT, highlighting how each region is adapting to accelerating demand and what these responses signal for the future of grid planning and operations.
Moderator: Matt Morais, Senior Director of Policy, Geronimo Power
Panelists:
- Aubrey Johnson, Vice President, System Planning and Competitive Transmission, MISO
- Timothy Burdis, Director, State Policy Solutions, PJM
- Natasha Henderson, Senior Director, Grid Asset Utilization, SPP
- Chad V. Seely, Senior Vice President and General Counsel, ERCOT
12:15pm – 1:00pm
Lunch and Networking
2:00pm – 5:00pm
Hosted Networking Events
- Golf at Barton Creek Resort
- Backyard Pitmasters BBQ Class
- Wild West Adventure
7:30pm – 10:00pm
Dinner Reception in Austin
Friday, April 24, 2026
7:30am – 8:30am
Breakfast and Morning Networking
8:15am – 8:30am
Morning Welcome
Keynote: David Reamer, Chief Development Officer, Geronimo Power
8:30am – 9:00am
Energy, Infrastructure, and Economic Growth: A Conversation with Congressman Dusty Johnson
As federal policy increasingly influences the pace and direction of energy and data center infrastructure development, understanding Washington’s role has become critical for industry stakeholders. Join Congressman Dusty Johnson of South Dakota for a discussion examining the intersection of federal policy, energy development, and economic growth. Drawing on a pragmatic perspective, Congressman Johnson will explore how current policy approaches to infrastructure, transmission, and emerging sectors such as data center development are shaping investment decisions and project viability. The conversation will offer insight into the evolving policy landscape and its implications for the future of American energy development and capital deployment.
Keynote: Congressman Dusty Johnson, U.S. House of Representatives
Moderator: Justin Pickar, Vice President, Strategic Origination, Geronimo Power
9:00am – 10:00am
Power Under Pressure: Are We Ready to Meet the Moment?
Abstract: With U.S. utilities planning to integrate roughly 180 GW of new large loads to their systems through 2030, data center expansion is rewriting the rules of the nation’s power and gas markets. AI-driven electricity demand, shifting supply chains, and evolving policy incentives are redefining power and renewables investment dynamics in 2026 and beyond. The data center boom has become a forcing function, not only for how rapidly innovation occurs, but for how effectively deployment keeps pace. In doing so, it is reshaping the industry’s understanding of reliability, resilience, and readiness in a clean energy future.
Moderator: John Larkey, Senior Director of Strategic Business Development, Geronimo Power
Keynote: Chris Seiple, Vice Chairman, Wood Mackenzie
10:00am – 10:15am
Networking Break
10:15am – 11:15am
Electric Rate Impacts: Evidence, Perceptions, and Predictions for the Future
Abstract: As data center growth accelerates and power demand intensifies, public perception and reality rarely match, especially when it comes to electricity rates. What does the data show? What do surveys on public perception show? Are rising rates being accurately attributed or are misconceptions shaping opposition and policy? This panel will unpack the evidence behind rate impacts, examining proposed and implemented large-load tariffs, utility cost recovery strategies, and regulatory approaches across the country. Panelists will explore how these realities contrast with public sentiment, how misinformation affects permitting and investment decisions, and what can be done to close the perception gap. The conversation will look ahead to how rates and perceptions are likely to evolve and how the industry can better inform communities, regulators, and policymakers to ensure affordability, reliability, and understanding move hand-in-hand.
Moderator: Drew Terwilliger, Executive Vice President, Strategy and Commercial, Geronimo Power
Panelists:
- Cameron Poursoltan, Senior Manager, Energy Policy – Texas, Data Center Coalition
- Mark Gusakov, CEO, The Digital Infrastructure Alliance
11:15am – 12:15pm
Community-First Engagement: Turning Dialogue into Development
As power and data center infrastructure development accelerates, effective community engagement has become a critical determinant of project success and public trust. In an environment marked by heightened skepticism and organized opposition, developers, utilities, cooperatives, and data centers face growing pressure to address misinformation, manage local dynamics, and communicate transparently with communities. This panel will examine where community engagement efforts have succeeded and where they have fallen short, highlighting how local sentiment and stakeholder (mis)alignment influence whether a project prevails or derails. Panelists will explore how organizations are evolving engagement strategies amid increasing demands for efficiency and accountability, including how tailored, community specific approaches influence outcomes through the lens of return on investment. The discussion will also focus on how tools such as in person engagement, digital platforms, and media outreach can be leveraged to foster sustained dialogue and translate engagement into project development.
Moderator: Lindsay Smith, Executive Vice President of External Affairs, Chief of Staff, Geronimo Power
Panelists:
- Mike Casey, President and Founder, Tigercomm
- Joab Ortiz, Senior Project Manager, Stakeholder Management Solutions, Burns & McDonnell
- Brent Bergland, Vice President Project Development, Mortenson
- Josh Moenning, Director, New Power Nebraska
12:15pm – 1:00pm
Q&A with Geronimo Power
Moderator: David Reamer
1:00pm – 2:00pm
Lunch and Networking
Agenda schedule subject to change. More information coming soon.
Moderators
Speakers
Joab Ortiz
Panelist
Senior Project Manager, Stakeholder Management Solutions, Burns & McDonnell
Steve Schoeneck
Panelist
Vice President, Customer Service and Retail Operations, Otter Tail Power Company
Chad V. Seely
Panelist
ERCOT, Senior Vice President, Regulatory Policy, General Counsel, Chief Compliance Officer, and Corporate Secretary
We are excited to give you a first look into our hosted social events for the 2026 Executive Partner Summit. On Thursday afternoon, attendees will have the opportunity to choose from one of three thoughtfully curated networking experiences designed to spark meaningful connections, inspire industry conversations, and showcase the best of Austin’s culture. Whether you’re looking to unwind, explore, or dive into something new, there’s an experience tailored just for you.
Golf at Barton Creek Resort
Tee off on one of two renowned championship courses set against the stunning backdrop of the Texas Hill Country. With rolling terrain, limestone cliffs, and sweeping panoramic views, each course offers a rewarding blend of challenge and playability for golfers of all skill levels. Enjoy pristine fairways and beautifully maintained greens, along with a seamless outing that includes foursomes, cart and club rentals as needed, and boxed lunches with drinks. This experience has everything you need for an exceptional day on the course.
Austin Golf Resort & Courses | Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa
Backyard Pitmasters BBQ Class
Dive into a 90-minute, high energy BBQ experience that is as fun as it is flavorful. Led by expert pitmasters, this hands-on class features live demonstrations, interactive Q and A, and easy to follow guidance on authentic Texas style techniques, from trimming and seasoning to mastering temperature control and smoke profiles. Hosted in a laid-back brewery or bar with complimentary drinks, each guest also takes home a 56-page guidebook and wraps up the experience by enjoying a full Texas BBQ spread with classic sides. It’s an unforgettable way to learn, sip, and savor like a true pitmaster.
Wild West Adventure
Step into an authentic Texas ranch experience that blends adventure, relaxation, and true Hill Country charm. Guests will saddle up for scenic horseback trail rides through forests and open meadows, then test their aim during a professionally guided shotgun trap shoot, all led by experts with a strong focus on safety and fun. After enjoying both signature activities, guests will unwind in true Texas style with Tex Mex appetizers and cocktails at the onsite Saloon. Adventure seekers will love getting a firsthand taste of authentic Austin cowboy culture.
Lone Star Ranch I Austin, TX I Horseback Riding | Ranch | Events |
Testimonials from Previous Summits
“I enjoyed the variety of speakers, depth of the knowledge, and experience [Geronimo] brought to the program.”
“I appreciated the content and opportunity to expand my customer relationships across multiple touchpoints and executives.”
“The event had the right mix of people present that allowed for in-depth discussions while also providing time to have fun and connect.”
Interested in seeing more information on our 2025 Summit? Click here to learn more.
Attendees from Previous Summits
Highlights
Organizers
We are looking forward to welcoming you to Austin for the 2026 Summit! If you have any questions prior to the event, do not hesitate to reach out to one of our organizers!
Questions? Contact [email protected]
