The 2026 Illinois Geothermal Conference

Power in the Message:  Educating for a Strong Geothermal Future



Join Illinois’ leading geothermal voices for a forward-looking conference focused on building a clear, credible message and advancing real solutions that grow geothermal across our state.


Dates: March 9–11, 2026
Pre-Conference Training: Monday, March 9
Main Conference: Tuesday, March 10 + Wednesday morning, March 11
Location: Par-A-Dice Hotel & Casino in East Peoria, IL


Early-bird deadline: February 9, 2026


Register Here - Member $250 Early Bird, $350 After February 9

Register Here - Additional Attendees (Member) - $150 Early Bird, $200 After February 9

Register Here - Non-Member - $350 Early Bird, $450 After February 9

Register Here - Additional Attendees (Non-Member) - $200 Early Bird, $250 after February 9

Register Here - NFP Utility Company - $200 Early Bird, $300 After February 9

Register Here - Additional Attendees (NFP Utility Co) - $100 Early Bird, $150 After February 9

 

Registration includes access to the main conference sessions, exhibit floor, networking opportunities, and conference materials.


Conference Overview


The 2026 Illinois Geothermal Conference is designed for anyone interested in geothermal, from those installing systems in the field to those shaping policy and planning future communities.  This year’s theme, Power in the Message, is about strengthening how we communicate the value of geothermal in Illinois: educating decision-makers, aligning stakeholders, and equipping the industry with tools to confidently explain benefits, overcome barriers, and accelerate adoption.  You’ll experience a day and a half packed with curated tracks, engaging panels, and powerful keynote presenters—focused on the most pressing issues and most promising opportunities in the geothermal sector.

 


Who Should Attend


This conference is geared toward:

  • Geothermal contractors & installers
  • Drillers & loop field professionals
  • Architects, engineers, and designers
  • Utility companies & co-ops
  • Policymakers, local government, and agency staff
  • Educators and workforce development partners
  • Innovators, manufacturers, and solution providers
  • Building owners, developers, and sustainability leaders


Whether you’re new to geothermal or a seasoned professional, you’ll leave with practical insights, stronger connections, and a clearer message for moving geothermal forward in Illinois.

 


Program-at-a-Glance


Monday, March 9  — Pre-Conference Training (add’l cost)
Hands-on learning and foundational/advanced instruction designed to strengthen technical knowledge and support real-world implementation.
Ideal for contractors, drillers, designers, and those wanting a deeper dive.


Tuesday, March 10 — Main Conference (Full Day)
Curated tracks, panels, and keynotes highlighting current realities, market drivers, and strategic opportunities for geothermal growth statewide.


Wednesday, March 11  — Main Conference (Half Day)
Morning sessions that focus on next steps, alignment, and action—closing with practical takeaways to help advance geothermal in Illinois during the closing luncheon.

 


What You’ll Learn


Expect discussion and solutions centered on:


  • Creating a unified, persuasive geothermal message for Illinois
  • Policy, incentives, and market drivers impacting adoption
  • Utility programs and pathways for scaling geothermal networks
  • Design and best practices for residential and commercial projects
  • Drilling, loop field planning, and installation strategies
  • Innovation and emerging tools that improve performance and ROI
  • Workforce and training needs to support growth statewide

 


Speakers and full session details coming soon.

 


Exhibit & Sponsorship Opportunities


Put your organization in front of the people shaping geothermal’s future in Illinois.

Exhibitors and sponsors will connect with:
contractors, drillers, designers, utilities, policymakers, and innovators actively working to expand geothermal solutions.


Opportunities include:

  • Exhibit booths (limited availability)
  • Sponsorship packages at multiple levels
  • Branding and visibility options throughout the program
  • Support of key conference elements (breaks, lanyards, training, etc.)

View Sponsor & Exhibitor Details

 



Contact


Kathy Ridley, kridley@gaoi.org

Hosted by: Geothermal Alliance of Illinois