Over 450 representatives from Northwest utilities; federal, state and local governments; end users; tribes; and contractors will join with national and regional experts to discuss conservation's role in solving energy problems.

The conference includes a trade show consisting of 48 vendors demonstrating the latest in conservation technologies, including compact fluorescent lighting, fuel cells, energy consumption controllers for vending machines and low energy concepts for commercial and residential room ventilation.

The event is being held at the DoubleTree Hotel at Jantzen Beach. Monday's schedule runs 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., while Tuesday's schedule begins at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday's session begins at 8 a.m. and ends at noon. Speakers will include representatives from Bonneville Power Administration, World Resources Institute, NW Natural Gas, Portland General Electric and Avista Corp., among others.