NREL in the Community

NREL takes pride in its world-class research, talented staff, sustainable campus, and results that positively impact our local, national, and global communities.

NREL Earth Day Environmental Walking Tour of the Mesa Top

April 22, 2019

Earth Day Power Lunch Lecture Series: Plastic Bottles Inspire Sustainable Solution

April 22, 2019

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Middle School Car Competition participants race their model cars to the cheer of spectators on both sides of solar race tracks.

Rain or shine, teams from across Colorado will compete in the Middle School Car Competition on May 4, 2019. Dakota Ridge High School will yet again be abuzz with the students’ palpable excitement as they prepare for the races. Check out the event page for more information.

Public Tours and Community Programs

NREL staff lead programs for interested community members. Programs include an introduction to NREL and discussions about innovations in renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies as well as campus and building tours.

Walking Campus Tour

Visitors to our main Golden campus will learn about our research and see how we are demonstrating clean energy technologies, reducing waste, and eliminating atmospheric pollution.

Tours are available at no charge and are held the third Monday of each month from 10 to 11:30 a.m. The tour is a vigorous, outdoor walking tour, so visitors are urged to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather. Tours start at the NREL Education Center.

Participants must be 18 or older, a U.S. Citizen, and have a photo ID. Space is limited, and advance registration is required. Email the public tour organizer or call 303-384-6565 to make a reservation.

Power Lunch Lecture Series

NREL's monthly Power Lunch Lecture Series highlights cutting-edge research at NREL and topics of interest to the community. Visit the events calendar for all programs.

Community Access and Campus Maps

View the South Table Mountain main campus map to see the east entrance location for visitors. Access open space trails near NREL's campus.

Economic Impact

NREL contributes to the local and national economy in various ways. We are one of the largest employers in Jefferson County, Colorado, and we provide business opportunities for small businesses and large corporations alike.

The economic impact of NREL operations on the nation totaled $1.1 billion and in Colorado totaled $748 million in Fiscal Year 2017. NREL is a top-10 employer in Jefferson County, where the economic benefit totaled $413 million during the same fiscal year.