On November 15, 2024, TWW and local elected officials toured the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in Golden, Colorado. The group received briefings from experts in the development of new energy technologies, battery energy storage, transmission and an update on local energy policies and ordinances.
NREL serves as a critical hub for the development and commercialization of cutting-edge renewable energy technologies. By developing and optimizing energy systems (like solar panels, wind turbines, and energy storage solutions), NREL helps reduce costs, increase efficiency, and open new markets for energy solutions, by focusing on the following goals.
Private Sector Growth: The lab collaborates with startups, small businesses, and large corporations, providing them with access to research, testing facilities, and expertise. This accelerates innovation and helps companies bring new products to market, fostering entrepreneurship and economic dynamism.
Cost Reduction: NREL's research helps lower the costs of renewable energy technologies, making them more affordable and accessible to consumers and businesses. This can reduce energy expenses for households and businesses, leading to greater economic efficiency and more disposable income or reinvestment in other areas of the economy.
Energy Resilience: The lab also contributes to improving energy infrastructure including transmission, ensuring more resilient energy systems that are less vulnerable to disruptions from natural disasters, cyber-attacks, or supply chain issues.
