MEA roundtable to tackle utility supply chain strategy

Utility planning and procurement leaders will gather in Minneapolis on Sept. 16-17 for an MEA Energy Association roundtable hosted by Xcel Energy. The event will focus on AI, data center demand, workforce issues and supplier strategy as utilities face rising pressure on planning and supply chains.

Why it matters: - Utilities are facing faster demand growth, new technology shifts and tighter supply chains at the same time. - The roundtable is designed to help utility leaders share practical approaches to planning, sourcing and procurement as those pressures intensify. - The agenda reflects the operational issues now shaping electric and natural gas utility strategy, from forecasting to workforce development.

What happened: - MEA Energy Association will host the MEA Planning, Sourcing & Procurement Roundtable on Sept. 16-17, 2026, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. - Xcel Energy is hosting the two-day event. - The roundtable is bringing together professionals from electric and natural gas utilities, manufacturers, suppliers and higher education. - Stacey Bonine, vice president of program services at MEA Energy Association, said the event is meant to help participants learn from one another, exchange ideas and take practical solutions back to their organizations.

The details: - Session topics include artificial intelligence in procurement and planning. - The agenda includes data centers and other large-scale infrastructure projects that are increasing demand. - Workforce trends and talent development are on the program. - Demand planning and forecasting will be discussed. - Supplier relationships and procurement strategies are part of the agenda. - Industry collaboration and operational best practices are also included. - Attendees will hear from utilities, manufacturers, suppliers and academic leaders. - The event will include presentations, peer discussions and collaborative problem-solving. - Open discussions are intended to encourage the exchange of ideas and real-world experiences. - The roundtable is open to MEA members and professionals involved in utility planning, sourcing, procurement, supply chain management and materials management. - Registration is available at MEAenergy.org/procurement.

Between the lines: - The event signals that procurement and planning are becoming more strategic as utilities absorb pressure from data center growth and changing technology. - The mix of utilities, suppliers and academic participants suggests the industry is looking for cross-sector solutions, not just internal process fixes. - MEA is positioning the roundtable as a peer-learning forum, which can be especially useful when common challenges do not have one clear answer.

What's next: - Utility leaders attending the roundtable will compare practices, test ideas and likely leave with new contacts and planning approaches. - MEA is expected to continue using its education and networking platform to support workforce and operational development across the energy industry. - The roundtable may also surface priorities that shape future utility procurement and supply chain planning discussions.