Strategic Energy Security

NREL's work in strategic energy security advances understanding of the national and international security implications of global energy transformations.

NREL defines energy security as the uninterrupted availability of energy sources at an affordable price to minimize negative consequences from energy use, including efficiency, environmental, social, and geopolitical factors.

NREL was founded in response to the energy security impact of the 1973 oil crisis, and the lab continues to contribute to the energy and national security of the United States. With NREL's expertise in clean energy technologies, we are helping decision makers navigate a secure and resilient transition to a clean energy future.

Strategic Energy Security Partnerships

NREL works closely with a broad set of federal partners on strategic energy security research, including the U.S. Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Agency for International Development, National Security Council, and other agencies. Collaboration with these partners helps us to more effectively support global adoption of clean energy. In return, NREL’s national security partners receive a greater understanding on the increasing number of complex threats to U.S. and international energy security.

NREL applies its clean energy expertise to national security missions by helping partners understand:

• Energy security implications of global energy transitions, including geopolitical and techno-economic implications
• How future energy systems will differ from petroleum-based systems
• How we can secure and defend our energy systems and achieve carbon neutral goals, nationally and internationally.

Related Research Programs and Projects

Ukraine Fights To Build More Resilient, Renewable Energy System in Midst of War

LIBRA: Lithium-Ion Battery Resource Assessment Model

NREL-Authored Clean Energy Supply Chain Analysis Reports

Future System Scenarios Analysis

Energy Security Planning for Communities and Governments

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