The KidWind Challenge is a hands-on renewable energy competition that engages students in STEM. Student teams bring small-scale wind turbines or solar devices that they've designed to the Challenge where they will be tested for power output. Teams also meet with a panel of expert judges to present their design process and demonstrate their contextual knowledge and tackle instant challenge activities. The event features a Renewable Energy Expo from 12:00 - 2:45 PM with ~20 hands-on science activities, interactions with scientists, and opportunities to build and test turbines. Challenge begins with opening ceremony at 9:00 AM and wraps up with awards at 3:00 PM. Top performers will be invited to the 2026 World KidWind Challenge at UW-Madison in May. Registration is closed for competing teams but public is welcome to spectate.

The State Energy Conference of North Carolina brings together energy professionals, policy makers, innovators, and businesses to explore the latest trends, technologies, and strategies shaping the energy sector. Topics include Grid Scale Resources, Distributed Resources, Electrification & Industrial Loads, Load Flexibility, Energy Efficiency & Building Technologies, and Innovation & Entrepreneurship. Conference runs April 28-29, 2026. Continuing education credits available.