LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Kentucky Geological Survey will examine the state's evolving energy landscape at its 65th annual seminar, with a focus on emerging opportunities in hydrogen exploration and critical minerals research.

The free event, titled "Powering Kentucky's Future," takes place June 2 at the University of Kentucky's Don & Cathy Jacobs Science Building, with additional workshops at the William T. Young Library, the Mining and Minerals Resources Building and off-campus at the Earth Analysis Research Library, according to a report from UK News.

The 2026 annual seminar will focus on Kentucky's energy outlook, highlighting recent geoscience research in hydrogen, critical minerals, oil and gas, and environmental management. Kenya Stump, an executive with the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet for over 17 years, has seen the volatility of coal as an energy source: shrinking demand, plant closures, job losses and tougher pollution controls. Stump, now executive director of the Kentucky Office of Energy Policy, will deliver the keynote presentation reviewing the state's current energy infrastructure and potential new energy sources.

The seminar reflects Kentucky's growing interest in alternative energy development. McGlue said he expects to present updated research from his team regarding geologic hydrogen during the Kentucky Geological Survey's annual seminar in Lexington this June. McGlue said, considering Kentucky's long history with coal, oil and natural gas, the discovery of a naturally occurring carbon-neutral energy source could be a major boon to the state. He said the resource could pay dividends, especially as governments and utilities work to meet rising energy needs.

For the second consecutive year, the seminar will offer three hands-on afternoon workshops. Matt Crawford, a KGS landslide geologist, will lead a session on landslide data and mitigation planning at Young Library. The Mining and Minerals Resources Building will host a ground-penetrating radar workshop for beginners led by Ed Woolery, professor and chair of the UK Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences. A third workshop at the Earth Analysis Research Library will focus on geological hydrogen exploration using rock cores.

The seminar has typically been the largest annual gathering of geologists in Kentucky. The event also includes poster presentations and complimentary lunch. Registration is required and available through Eventbrite. More information is available at the KGS website.