Most of us take the electrical grid for granted. But it is perhaps the most complex technological achievement in human history. After more than a century of relative stability, the grid is changing fast. Our conference plenary will explore the technology and policy solutions evolving to enable a more reliable, resilient, environmentally responsible and affordable electricity grid. Some of the nations most interesting and influential energy thought leaders will present their ideas on how the electrical distribution system and energy markets should be organized in the future and how those changes will impact the ways we all use energy.