Feature Stories
The following feature stories take an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at how NREL is advancing energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies.
May 2022
May 12, 2022
The Future of Distributed Wind in the United States: Considerations for Unlocking Terawatt-Level Potential
The U.S. federal government has set a goal of 100% clean electricity in 2035 and a net-zero carbon economy in 2050. To achieve these ambitious targets, all forms of renewable power will be important—including distributed wind.
April 2022
April 21, 2022
Industry Growth Forum Journeys
NREL's Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center (IEC) hosted its Industry Growth Forum (IGF) April 13-14, 2022, in Aurora, Colorado. The IGF is the premier event for cleantech entrepreneurs, investors, and experts from industry and the public sector to build relationships, showcase innovative technologies, and identify disruptive business solutions. Follow three of the 40 presenters through this story.
April 8, 2022
NREL Researchers Plot Energy Storage Under Our Feet
Computer modeling done by scientists at NREL and Colorado School of Mines confirmed the feasibility of using depleted oil and gas wells as a space for energy storage.
March 2022
March 24, 2022
Transportation Innovation Bridges Divides
Mobility limitations present major impediments to securing a better job, home, education, healthcare, and overall quality of life. Learn how NREL researchers are working with partners in underserved communities to identify energy-efficient transportation solutions that can increase mobility equity.
March 15, 2022
Aging Gracefully: How NREL Is Extending the Lifetime of Solar Modules
DuraMAT, a multi-laboratory consortium led by NREL, is exploring ideas that could extend solar module lifetime up to 50 years.
February 2022
Feb. 3, 2022
Leader in Buildings Research Receives Prestigious Black Engineer of the Year STEM Award
After more than a decade of leading innovative building research and mentoring dozens of young scientists, Roderick Jackson is being honored with a Black Engineer of the Year Award (BEYA) at the 36th annual BEYA STEM Conference, Feb. 17-19, 2022, in Washington, D.C. He is the first BEYA recipient from NREL.
January 2022
Jan. 5, 2022
Python Opens Up New Applications for EnergyPlus Building Energy Simulation
Buildings account for more than 40% of U.S. energy use and 70% of U.S. electricity use. Reducing that consumption and "shaping" it to match renewable generation requires us to design and operate buildings to be more efficient, flexible, and responsive. To do that, we must be able to better predict and model building energy use.
