The National Renewable Energy Lab

Some facts about the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory:

* Creation: NREL was established by the Solar Energy Research, Development and Demonstration Act of 1974. The laboratory began operations in 1977 and President Carter visited the site in 1978. NREL gained national laboratory status in 1991.

* Mission: “To lead the nation toward a sustainable energy future by developing renewable energy technologies, improving energy efficiency, advancing related science and engineering and facilitating commercialization.”

* Programs: Almost 50 areas. Includes solar and wind power, fuels (ethanol and biodiesel), chemicals and energy derived from biomass, energy-efficient building, advanced vehicles, hydrogen fuel cells, superconductivity, geothermal and genetic engineering for biomass.

* Research partners: More than 70 universities, 250 companies including Chrysler, Ford and General Motors, 25 state energy offices and 80 not-for-profit organizations.

* NREL vehicle technology: Developed a catalytic converter that dramatically reduces harmful “cold-start” vehicle emissions. The converter is wrapped in compact vacuum insulation to keep the converter at efficient temperatures for up to 24 hours after the vehicle is turned off. Sixty to 80% of all vehicle emissions occur before converters heat up.

NREL is working on ways to increase automobile fuel efficiency by redesigning heating and cooling systems. Technology includes temperature-controlled seats with fluid circulating through tiny channels in the seat cover and a small solar panel to power the ventilation system.

NREL has paired with auto makers to develop a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), scheduled to be on the road by 2003. Combines electric propulsion with fuel cell or traditional combustion engine. Designed to greatly increase fuel efficiency and reduce emissions without sacrificing power and comfort.

--Source: NREL / Associated Press