Power is readily available at the flick of a switch, but what does it take to make that happen now and in the future for everyone? This September, representatives from the Union of Concerned Scientists will join University of Illinois Extension for a two-part webinar series on the basics of energy grid resiliency in Illinois, including how communities can work together to ensure a reliable energy future. The organization recently released the power grid resiliency report “Keeping Everyone’s Lights On,” which highlights ways to strengthen the power grid to withstand extreme weather and serve communities equitably.
The first program, Energy Grid Resiliency 101, will be at noon CT on Tuesday, Sept. 9. Explore how the power grid works in Illinois, why energy resilience is essential, and how grid disruptions impact communities. Also learn about the tools and strategies available to improve grid performance, and how community voices can help shape a more reliable and equitable energy system from industry experts.
The second webinar, Building a Resilient Illinois Energy Grid, will be at noon on Tuesday, Sept. 16. Discover state-specific energy grid goals, including clean energy targets, transmission system upgrades, and investment needs. Industry experts will connect the dots between resilience, climate science, and public policy, highlighting how community-driven solutions and equity-focused planning can guide the future of Illinois’ power grid. Learn about opportunities for public input and advocacy and leave with a clear understanding of how to help shape energy decisions in your community.
Register for free at go.illinois.edu/ResilientCommunities2025. For more information about the series, contact Linda Derhak at lderhak2@illinois.edu. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this webinar, contact Nancy Ouedraogo esarey@illinois.edu. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs.
These programs are presented as part of the Resilient Communities Webinar Series, which is provided by a collaboration between the Illinois Extension local government education program and Prairie Rivers Network to build capacity for technical assistance and education aimed to help communities navigate energy- and environment-related funding opportunities, provide guidance on community inclusion, and lead community-specific strategic planning. This outreach should help communities secure and manage resources to address legacy pollution, invest in clean energy technologies, and more. Find past webinars at go.illinois.edu/ThrivingCommunities.
To connect with Extension natural resources, environment, and energy staff about a program or for a consultation, visit go.illinois.edu/NREEstaff. Extension’s natural resources, environment, and energy program provides research-based education for awareness and action to sustain healthy environments and ecosystems that support quality living and resilient communities. Extension staff empower people across Illinois to make a difference through the Master Naturalist, Climate Steward, and Watershed Steward volunteer and training programs.
***Courtesy of the University of Illinois Extension***
