Anelia Milbrandt is a senior researcher in the Integrated Modeling and Economic Analysis Group within the Strategic Energy Analysis Center. Anelia has over 20 years of experience in bioenergy and waste-to-energy research, as well as program management. She leads technical work related to biomass and waste resources evaluation. Anelia led and contributed to groundbreaking research that quantified and mapped various biomass and waste resources below national level and at a fine geographic resolution for the first time. Anelia manages the Waste-to-Energy Technical Assistance Program for State and Local Governments which supports US communities exploring alternative waste management options. She has also managed international initiatives with bilateral and multilateral partners (e.g., UNEP, USAID, APEC) where in addition to technical assessments she has provided expert advice on bioenergy and waste-to-energy development.   

Research Interests

Sustainable biomass resource development and use

Waste resources in the context of circular economy

Sustainable community development

Education

M.S., Geography, University of Sofia

B.S., Geography, University of Sofia

Professional Experience

Senior Researcher and Project Manager, National Renewable Energy Laboratory (2013–present)

Researcher, National Renewable Energy Laboratory (2003–2013)

GIS Analyst, Minnesota State Legislature (2001–2003)

Associations and Memberships

Member, Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA)

Featured Work

Paper and Cardboard Waste in the United States: Geographic, Market, and Energy Assessment, Waste Management Bulletin (2023)

Quantification and Evaluation of Plastic Waste in the United States, Resources, Conservation, and Recycling (2022)

Wet Waste-to-Energy Resources in the United States, Resources, Conservation, and Recycling (2018)

Awards and Honors

U.S. Department of Energy Hydrogen Program R&D Award "In Recognition of Outstanding Contributions to Hydrogen Scenario Analysis" (2007)

NREL Staff Award for Outstanding Performance (2007)