About NREL

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is the U.S. Department of Energy's primary national laboratory for energy systems research and development.

With a focus on security and reliability, NREL leads energy systems integration and innovation—enhancing existing technologies and developing new, cutting-edge solutions that unlock economic opportunity and fuel America's global competitiveness.

NREL bridges foundational research with practical applications across fuels, storage, buildings, renewables, and emerging technologies. By fostering strategic partnerships, NREL accelerates energy innovation to market and delivers resilient systems that lower costs, bolster national security, and ensure abundant energy.

NREL Quick Facts

16

Research Programs

16 programs

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Business Volume

$1 billion*

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Publications

2,726 scientific and technical materials published in Fiscal Year 2023

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Partnerships

More than 1,100 active partnerships with industry, universities, foundations, and governments

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Technologies for Licensing

688 patents issued for NREL technologies to date

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Campuses

Arvada, Colorado

Golden, Colorado

Fairbanks, Alaska

Washington, D.C.

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Employment

3,675 employees, postdoctoral researchers, interns, visiting professionals, and subcontractors

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Countries Represented by Staff

More than 70

*Fiscal Year 2024

NREL is a national laboratory of the U.S. Department of Energy. Read our security and privacy policy.

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Last Updated April 21, 2025