August 2015
NREL and Clemson University Put Wind Turbine Drivetrains to the Test
Through a cooperative research and development agreement (CRADA), two of our nation’s most advanced wind energy research and test facilities—the National Wind Technology Center at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and Clemson University—have joined forces to help the wind energy industry improve wind turbine drivetrains and integrate turbines with the electric grid.
New Study Reveals Potential 30% Penetration of Wind and Solar for the Eastern Interconnection
Using high-performance computing capabilities and new methodologies to model operations of the Eastern Interconnection—arguably the largest power system in the world—at unprecedented fidelity, NREL found that the power system can reliably support up to 30% penetration of wind and solar power.
NWTC Researchers Recognized for Technology Transfer Excellence
Two research teams at the National Wind Technology Center at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) recently received NREL Technology Transfer Awards: one for the development of the Simulator fOr Wind Farm Applications and a second for their work with Siemens on blade aerodynamics. A third team received a patent award for their approach to wind turbine blade testing using base excitation. These awards recognize individuals who have shown exceptional personal initiative in helping transfer NREL technology and developments to the private sector through impactful partnering, licensing, and product release activity.
NREL to Play Pivotal Role in White House Initiative to Bolster America’s Manufacturing Future
The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) National Wind Technology Center at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is now part of a multimillion-dollar White House initiative known as the National Network of Manufacturing Innovation (NNMI), which was created to foster emerging technologies that will produce high-quality manufacturing jobs and enhance America’s global competitiveness.
News Release: NREL’s Bobi Garrett Named Top Industry Executive
Bobi Garrett, deputy laboratory director for strategic programs and partnerships at the Energy Department’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), was recognized by the Denver Business Journal as one of the region’s top female executives in the energy industry.
News Release: NREL Report Examines Energy Use in Cities and Proposes Next Steps for Energy Innovation
What U.S. cities are doing to reduce their energy use is outlined in a new report from the Energy Department’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) that sets the stage for broader discussion and analysis. Given increasing urbanization and their large energy footprint, cities are a prime focal point for establishing a clean energy future.
"Circle of Mentorship" Renews Talent at NREL
A network of mentoring is expanding across NREL through the lab's various internship programs.
New Energy License Encourages Investment in Green Technologies
The Energy Department's National Renewable Energy Laboratory has developed a new technology transfer licensing tool, called the Energy License, which allows licensees to deduct a portion of fuel and electricity offsets against a portion of their royalty fees.
Webinar August 11: Analysis Using Fuel Cell MHE for Shaving Peak Building Energy
This Fuel Cell Technologies Office webinar, presented by Michael Penev of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, will explore the synergy between a facility's use of hydrogen fuel cell forklifts and its reduction of electric grid time of use energy charges.
July 2015
Ethylene Production Via Sunlight Opens Door to Future
Research provides an alternative to using oil to make building block for plastics
NREL's Power Systems Research Highlighted at 2015 IEEE Power and Energy Society General Meeting
NREL's power systems research will be featured prominently at the IEEE Power and Energy Society General Meeting July 27-31, 2015, in Denver.
Popular Mechanics: Scientists Break This Virtual Power Grid to Save the Real One
Popular Mechanics describes how NREL's Energy Systems Integration Facility helps integrate solar power into outdated systems—without causing blackouts or explosions in the process.
Data From Power Production Units Can Benefit Industry
For more than 5 years, DOE has been leveraging its ownership of two 250-kilowatt geothermal power production units to gather field data that will benefit the industry.
Continuum Magazine - NREL Analysis: Reimagining What's Possible for Clean Energy
The Summer 2015 issue of Continuum Magazine.
NREL Awarded $4.9 Million for Small Business Voucher Pilot
During the July 8 Clean Energy Manufacturing Initiative’s Southeast Regional Summit in Atlanta, Georgia, the Energy Department announced the national laboratories that will be taking the lead in implementing a new $20 million Small Business Vouchers Pilot. Through a competitive selection, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory was awarded $4.9 million for their work on the pilot.
NREL's Winning Hand of Clean Transportation Tools
NREL's suite of transportation tools helps fleet managers and individual drivers alike to "green up" their travel decisions
NREL's 91-Year-Old Palmer Carlin—a Wind Energy Pioneer
Release of the Energy Department's has added an important tool to his arsenal.
June 2015
Battery Second Use Offsets Electric Vehicle Expenses, Improves Grid Stability
NREL researchers are identifying strategies capable of offsetting expenses while helping utilities support peak electricity demands.
Colorado Students Secure in Science Knowledge
Ridgeview Classical Schools captured a 4-3 record at this year's National Science Bowl.
NREL Innovates Today for the Homes of Tomorrow
Researchers and industry partners collaborate in the Systems Performance Lab on energy-saving technologies for the smart homes of the future.
Last Updated May 28, 2025