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Program
Presentations can be accessed via the links in this program.
To view the full program, click here.
To view the Program-at-a-Glance, click here.
Fireside Chat: Manufacturer Perspectives on Efficiency Opportunities in HVAC and Water Heating – Tuesday, March 24 (5:00–6:00 p.m.)
Jennifer Layke, ACEEE’s new executive director, hosted four industry experts to discuss challenges facing the HVAC and water-heating industries, new opportunities for energy efficiency, and how manufacturers and efficiency advocates can continue working together.
Plenary Panel: Load Growth, Affordability, and Impacts of Space and Water Heating – Wednesday, March 25 (9:00–10:30 a.m.)
As new loads connect to the electric grid, we are seeing increased strain and rising bills. Natural gas prices are also rising. Speakers from around the country discussed the unique benefits of space- and water-heating efficiency on peak load and affordability, and successful applications in their regions.
Additional Events
First-Timers’ Orientation – Monday, March 23 (5:00 p.m.)
New to Hot Air Hot Water Forum, looking for a refresher, or hoping to connect with colleagues before the conference? This informal orientation session will cover the conference schedule, networking opportunities, and session tracks. It's also a great chance to meet fellow attendees, share what you're hoping to get out of the conference, and find out which sessions might be most relevant to you.
Dine Arounds – Monday, March 23 (6:00 p.m.)
We are excited to introduce a new opportunity to connect with fellow attendees. We’ve made five reservations at restaurants within walking distance of the Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel, each led by an ACEEE staff member. The sign-up sheet is available to attendees.
Shameless Commerce – Wednesday, March 25 (5:30–7:00 p.m.)
This “Shameless Commerce” event, in which participants pitch new products and services, is one of our most popular forum activities. In a rapid-fire format, each participant will have the opportunity to present a three-minute infomercial to the audience. Each pitch will be followed by brief audience Q&A. This event will be hosted alongside the Wednesday evening reception.
Scholarship Program
Join the Next Generation of Efficiency Leaders
We offer a limited number of scholarships for students and trainees to attend the Hot Water & Hot Air Forums. The scholarship covers full conference registration fees.
If you’re passionate about efficiency, electrification, and affordability, this is your chance to:
- Learn directly from national experts and practitioners
- Explore real-world solutions shaping the future of buildings
- Connect with leaders who are hiring, mentoring, and innovating
Scholars attend technical sessions, join networking events, and become part of a professional community working to lower energy costs and cut emissions.
Transportation and lodging are not included.
Interested in applying for a scholarship? Contact the ACEEE conferences team to learn more.
Last year, David joined us as a scholar. It was a great opportunity to expand
his network, deepen his expertise, and build a career in energy efficiency.
Apply to join us this year in Phoenix!
Opportunities to Support Emerging Professionals
Invest in the Future of the Efficiency Workforce
We invite scholarship sponsors to help expand our scholarship program by funding scholarships for trade students and emerging professionals.
Your support helps students and emerging professionals:
- Gain first-hand knowledge of cutting-edge technologies and practices.
- Engage with industry leaders and peers.
- Build critical connections that can accelerate their careers in energy efficiency.
Sponsoring is a win-win:
- Demonstrate your commitment to workforce development and innovation.
- You help students, emerging professionals, and transitioning workers gain access to valuable learning and networking.
- Your company will be recognized from the podium and the conference app.
To sponsor scholarships, don't hesitate to get in touch with the ACEEE conferences team.
Call for Presentations
Presentations were submitted under the following tracks.
2026 Hot Water & Hot Air Forum Tracks
Affordability
- Reducing costs
- Financing
- Peak load and demand flexibility
Policies and programs
- Regional successes and roadmaps
- Test methods and metrics
- Electric rate design
System design and installation
- Consumer education
- Installer training
- Commercial hot water
- Health and safety
Technologies
- Commercial and residential systems
- Plug-in, rooftop, and combi units
- Refrigerant transition