For more than 40 years, NREL's world-class research staff has devised solutions to transform the way we generate, consume, store, and distribute energy.
As the population grows and new technologies and devices are added to the grid, we must examine the effects on the grid and enhance security within our most critical systems.
As environmental threats expand and human demands on urban centers increase, we need more sustainable and efficient ways of generating energy that consider resource competition worldwide.
NREL continues to anticipate these challenges, offering solutions through research, innovation, analysis, partners, and people. We are building the foundation of tomorrow's energy landscape and inspiring the economic growth of the future.
NREL's 10-Year Strategic Vision
Watch how NREL is charting a course for the future with a vision for solving energy challenges at home while creating opportunities worldwide.
Transforming Energy through Science
We are focusing our expertise and resources on research to accelerate the transformation of traditionally fossil-based products, practices, and industries. With an eye toward emerging megatrends and evolving fields, our thought leaders have identified three distinct research areas to help guide our discoveries.
Integrated Energy Pathways
Focuses on modernizing our grid to support a broad selection of generation types, encourage active participation by the consumer, and expand our options for transportation electrification
Electrons to Molecules
Focuses on the use of renewable, affordable electricity as the driving force for the conversion of low-energy molecules—such as water and carbon dioxide—to generate higher-value, higher-energy chemicals, fuels, and materials
Circular Economy for Energy Materials
Focuses on reducing waste and preserving resources through the design of materials and products with reuse, recycling, and upcycling in mind from the start
Leadership Perspectives
NREL leaders regularly contribute to the online publishing platform Medium to share their experiences and unique perspectives on the direction of the lab.
Using an Energy Compass: NREL's 10-Year Vision To Meet Future Needs
By Martin Keller, laboratory director
The Circular Economy Can Renew Renewable Energy Technologies
By Bill Tumas, associate laboratory director
Why Not Use Cheap Renewable Electrons To Create Industry’s Building Blocks?
By Adam Bratis, associate laboratory director
Modernizing Our Energy Systems Will Help Us Engage the Future
By Juan Torres and Johney Green, associate laboratory directors