By Andi Anderson
The 2026 Indiana Land Use Summit will provide a valuable platform for discussing the future of land-use planning, renewable energy development, and agricultural sustainability. The event will highlight Purdue University’s applied research and extension efforts that support data-driven and community-focused approaches to land management across Indiana.
A major focus of the summit will be the growing role of renewable energy and agrivoltaics. Agrivoltaics is an approach that combines solar energy production with agricultural activities on the same land. This method is gaining attention as communities seek ways to balance clean energy goals with continued agricultural productivity.
During the event, participants will learn about the Indiana Renewable Energy Siting through Technical Engagement and Planning (IN R-STEP) program. Through presentations and discussions, attendees will explore new research findings, planning resources, and technical tools designed to support informed decisions regarding utility-scale renewable energy projects. These resources aim to help communities address land-use challenges while considering local needs and opportunities.
The summit will also feature insights from the Midwest Agrivoltaics for Resilient Communities (MARC) initiative. Researchers involved in the program will present findings related to agrivoltaics system design, community feedback gathered through focus groups, and resilience modeling studies. These efforts examine how solar infrastructure can successfully coexist with farming operations while also supporting energy reliability and microgrid development.
Attendees will have opportunities to participate in breakout sessions and engage with experts on emerging issues related to land use and renewable energy. These interactive discussions are designed to encourage knowledge sharing and provide practical solutions that can be applied within local communities.
One of the key highlights of the event will be a tour of the Agrivoltaics Research Platform located at Purdue University’s Agronomy Center for Research & Education (ACRE). The tour will offer participants a firsthand look at ongoing research and demonstrate how agricultural production and solar energy generation can operate together on the same land.
The summit will take place on August 27, 2026, at the Beck Agricultural Center in West Lafayette, Indiana. The event is expected to attract researchers, agricultural professionals, planners, policymakers, and community leaders interested in sustainable land-use strategies.
In addition to educational sessions, the summit emphasizes accessibility and participation. Purdue University encourages an inclusive environment and provides accommodations, dietary assistance, and interpreter or translation services for attendees who require support. Through research-based information and collaborative discussions, the event aims to help communities make informed decisions about the future of agriculture, energy, and land management.
Photo Credit: purdue-university
Categories: Indiana, Energy