2003 Sponsors

NREL is the world leader in renewable energy technology development. Since its inception in 1977, NREL's sole mission has been to develop renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies and transfer these technologies to the private sector.


Mission
NREL develops renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies and practices, advances related science and engineering, and transfers knowledge and innovations to address the nation's energy and environmental goals.


History
NREL was established by the Solar Energy Research, Development and Demonstration Act of 1974 as a national center for federally sponsored solar energy research and development.

NREL was originally called the Solar Energy Research Institute. The laboratory began operations July 5, 1977.

NREL gained national laboratory status September 16, 1991, making it one of the U.S. Department of Energy's national laboratories.

National Renewable Energy Laboratory
(http://www.nrel.gov/ )