CONFERENCE INFORMATION
What is CERC 2026? +
CERC 2026 is the annual research conference organized by the California Energy Research Center (CERC) at California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB). It brings together academics, industry professionals, policy makers and students to explore advances in energy production, storage, decarbonization, and California-specific energy challenges.
Why focus on California? +
California is at the forefront of many clean-energy transitions, has ambitious decarbonization goals and many unique geologic, regulatory and infrastructure challenges (e.g., subsurface storage, hydrogen pipelines, idle oil wells repurposing). CERC aims to support research and partnerships for the benefit of the region and state.
Who should attend? +
Researchers in energy science/engineering, policy analysts, practitioners in the energy industry, graduate students, and anyone interested in California’s energy transition, carbon management, renewables, and subsurface energy storage.
Who organizes the conference? +
The conference is organized by CERC at CSUB, which was created in 2014 with a mission to expand faculty, researcher and student capabilities in sustainable and affordable energy production in California. (Visit the CERC website).
ATTENDING THE CONFERENCE
When and Where is the event? +
The CERC 2026 conference will take place on the CSUB campus.
April 8th: Mixer/Networking Event
Join us for an evening dedicated to building connections with researchers, industry
experts, and policymakers in a relaxed setting.
Time: 5-7PM | Location: Dezember Reading Room in the Walter W. Stiern Library.
April 9th: Conference Day
The main conference featuring keynotes, technical presentations, and panel discussions
on California's energy transition.
Time: All Day | Location: Doré Theatre.
How do I register? +
You can register for the conference and mixer by following the link below.
Are there networking opportunities? +
Yes, we host a dedicated Mixer/Networking Event on the evening of April 8th to help researchers, students, and industry professionals connect before the main conference day.
Where can I stay? +
The conference venue is located on the CSUB campus near several highly-rated hotels. We recommend searching for accommodation near the campus area. Convenient, high-quality options just over a mile away include:
- Homewood Suites by Hilton Bakersfield (All-suite hotel with kitchenettes and free breakfast)
- Hyatt Place Bakersfield (Modern hotel with on-site dining and a pool)
EXHIBITOR AND SPONSOR AT THE CONFERENCE
How can I exhibit at the conference? +
Showcase your organization, research, or technology to a targeted audience of energy professionals and researchers.
What options are available to sponsor the conference? +
Gain visibility and demonstrate your commitment to California's energy future with a sponsorship package.