Peaks to Power

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Education Initiatives To Empower Future Innovators Jul 10, 2024

Show notes

Disclaimer: This episode was produced when the laboratory operated as the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). The laboratory is now the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR).

Hosts Kerrin Jeromin and Taylor Mankle discuss NREL’s impactful and comprehensive approach to education initiatives aimed at cultivating the next generation of clean energy leaders, emphasizing the importance of cultivating STEM identity and fostering diversity and inclusion. Through initiatives like the Stories and STEaM series, NREL not only integrates arts into STEM education to enhance creativity but also ensures that students of all backgrounds feel represented and encouraged to pursue careers in clean energy, embodying NREL's commitment to a sustainable and equitable future.

This episode was hosted by Kerrin Jeromin and Taylor Mankle, written and produced by Allison Montroy, Hannah Halusker, and Kaitlyn Stottler, and edited by Taylor Mankle, Joe DelNero, and Brittany Falch. Graphics are by Brittnee Gayet. Our title music is written and performed by Ted Vaca and episode music by Chuck Kurnik, Jim Riley, and Mark Sanseverino of Drift BC. Peaks to Power is created by the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Laboratory of the Rockies in Golden, Colorado. Email us at podcast@nlr.gov. Follow NLR on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, Threads, and Facebook.

The Power of the Elements: Growing Residential Solar Installations and Weather’s Impact on Renewable Grid Operations Jun 26, 2024

Show notes

Disclaimer: This episode was produced when the laboratory operated as the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). The laboratory is now the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR).

Hosts Kerrin Jeromin and Taylor Mankle discuss two recent stories from NREL:

In 2023, the SolarAPP+ automated online permitting platform streamlined the approval process for residential rooftop solar installations, reducing project timelines by approximately 14.5 business days compared to traditional methods. This advancement not only saved over 15,400 hours of permitting department staff time but also eliminated more than 150,000 business days in delays, accelerating the adoption of clean solar energy across 97 local governments in the United States.
In a groundbreaking study, NREL analyzed the evolving impact of extreme weather events on the U.S. power grid as renewable energy integration increases. The study found that despite growing renewable energy sources like wind and solar, the grid's resilience to extreme weather remains robust, challenging traditional definitions of "extreme" weather and emphasizing the importance of planning for periods of low renewable output.

Building Reliability in Transmission, Solar Panels, and Islanded Communities Jun 12, 2024

Show notes

Disclaimer: This episode was produced when the laboratory operated as the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). The laboratory is now the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR).

This episode discusses three recent stories from NREL:

Dynamic Line Ratings, a crucial upgrade for our transmission system's future, are like adjusting a road's speed limit based on weather conditions. By utilizing real-time weather monitoring, we can increase power transmission when it's safe, ensuring efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness, which offers a bright forecast for our clean energy journey.
The DuraMAT Consortium, spearheaded by NREL, addresses rapid changes in the solar industry, providing vital guidance for building reliable, durable solar panels amidst major growth in 2023. Their recent annual report unveils groundbreaking strategies and recommendations, promising long-term benefits for both manufacturers and consumers in the evolving solar energy landscape.
Eastport, Maine, faces energy challenges exacerbated by storms and high costs, prompting its involvement in the Energy Transitions Initiative Partnership Project (ETIPP), where it focuses on resilient power systems and energy-efficient homes. By harnessing tidal power and analyzing energy-saving measures, ETIPP offers Eastport pathways to create a reliable, cost-effective, and resilient grid.

Wind Turbine-Building Robots, 3D Printing Underwater Turbine Tech, and Turning Corn Stover Into Fuel for Planes May 29, 2024

Show notes

Disclaimer: This episode was produced when the laboratory operated as the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). The laboratory is now the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR).

This episode discusses three recent stories from NREL:

Researchers have successfully utilized robotic assistance in the manufacture of wind turbine blades, aiming to eliminate challenging working conditions for humans and enhance product consistency. By automating trimming, grinding, and sanding processes, the study not only improves workplace safety but also supports the economic viability of domestic blade manufacturing, potentially leading to increased job opportunities within the United States.
Research has uncovered a groundbreaking synergy between marine energy and additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing, unveiling a potential solution to enhance tidal turbine technologies. By harnessing stainless steel material and laser metal deposition, they aim to fortify tidal turbine spars, the backbone of underwater turbines, against the relentless forces of the ocean, potentially revolutionizing maintenance practices and bolstering energy resilience for coastal communities. This innovation promises rapid deployment and accessibility, empowering localities to swiftly address energy needs and foster sustainability in marine environments.
SAFFiRE Renewables plans to utilize NREL’s DMR technology to convert agricultural residue into scalable biofuel, significantly reducing carbon footprints in aviation. With a pilot plant set to handle 10 tons of corn stover daily and produce 300,000 gallons of cellulosic ethanol annually, this collaboration marks a pivotal step towards commercializing sustainable aviation fuel and fostering energy resilience.

Possible Pathways to 100% Renewable Energy in Puerto Rico, the Wind Workforce Gap, and an NREL Leader Honored—Plus, How Research Gets Published May 15, 2024

Show notes

Disclaimer: This episode was produced when the laboratory operated as the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). The laboratory is now the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR).

This episode discusses three recent stories from NREL:

In 2017, Puerto Rico faced a devastating double blow as consecutive hurricanes decimated 80% of its electrical grid, resulting in the longest blackout in U.S. history. Determined to rebuild resiliently, Puerto Rico passed Act 17 in 2019, aiming for a 100% renewable energy system by 2050, which sparked the groundbreaking PR100 study—a collaborative effort between the Department of Energy and six national laboratories—to chart the territory's energy future through extensive community engagement and innovative scenarios.
With the U.S. wind energy sector projected to grow substantially, a new NREL report highlights a potential shortage of over 124,000 workers by 2030, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to raise awareness, increase training opportunities, create connections, and emphasize inclusivity in the wind energy workforce. We delve into the report's findings and discuss actionable steps to bridge the wind workforce gap, essential for realizing America's clean energy future.
Nancy Haegel, Director of the National Center for Photovoltaics at NREL, has been elected as a fellow of the AAAS, recognized for her distinguished contributions to materials science, particularly in semiconductor transport, infrared detectors, and renewable energy. She is the 12th person from NREL to receive this prestigious honor.

Plus: NREL librarian Jason Youngstrom joins to discuss the essential role of NREL librarians, who play a crucial part in advancing renewable energy research by ensuring NREL researchers have access to the latest information and publications needed to drive innovation and maintain NREL's position as a leader in the field.

Lab Notes: How NREL Is Tackling the Plastics Problem—an Earth Day Special   Apr 22, 2024

Show notes

Disclaimer: This episode was produced when the laboratory operated as the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). The laboratory is now the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR).

In the latest episode of Transforming Energy’s Lab Notes series, hosts Taylor Mankle and Kerrin Jeromin delve into an Earth Day special focusing on NREL’s pioneering efforts in addressing the plastics problem. Through insightful conversations with NREL researchers Nic Rorrer and Julia Curley, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the environmental impacts of plastics and NREL’s pivotal role in finding sustainable solutions.
Nic Rorrer, a senior researcher at NREL, highlights the lost opportunities and health risks associated with plastics in the environment, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to redesign plastics for a sustainable future. Julia Curley, a postdoctoral researcher at NREL, shares her journey and contributions to plastics recycling, including a groundbreaking project with Amazon aimed at creating circular and sustainable plastic packaging. In this episode, listeners are encouraged to take action in reshaping our relationship with plastics for a more sustainable tomorrow.

San Diego’s Clean Energy Communities, Sand’s Energy Storage Solution, Ukraine and Tanzania’s New Solar Possibilities Apr 17, 2024

Show notes

Disclaimer: This episode was produced when the laboratory operated as the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). The laboratory is now the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR).

This episode discusses three recent stories from NREL:

The Clean Energy to Communities (C2C) program facilitates peer learning cohorts where local and regional stakeholders gather to enhance clean energy initiatives. Recently, the San Diego Association of Governments participated in a cohort, leveraging insights to refine community engagement for their climate action plans and zero-emission vehicle incentives, fostering innovative approaches and impactful community involvement.
A sand-based thermal energy storage technology offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution for long-term energy storage, potentially revolutionizing the renewable energy sector. By utilizing silica sand, the innovation tackles both cost and ethical concerns associated with traditional battery storage systems.
Extensive solar radiation research has produced a game-changing data set, empowering power system planning and solar energy deployment across Africa, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East. This pivotal resource addresses critical challenges in reliable resource data for countries like Tanzania and Ukraine, propelling informed decision-making and catalyzing renewable energy progress.

Renewable Energy Discovery Island App Encourages Young Scientists, and Electric Aviation Takes Flight Apr 03, 2024

Show notes

Disclaimer: This episode was produced when the laboratory operated as the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). The laboratory is now the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR).

This episode discusses two recent stories from NREL:

The Renewable Energy Discovery (REDi) Island app, an innovative educational tool developed by researchers, immerses users in a virtual world powered entirely by renewable energy, showcasing technologies like hydropower and other marine energy. With interactive features allowing exploration of various renewable energy solutions and career opportunities, REDi Island is designed for students, educators, or really, anyone curious about how we can build a more sustainable world powered by clean energy.
A comprehensive analysis for the Federal Aviation Administration delves into the infrastructure challenges of charging electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, highlighting the need for significant grid upgrades to accommodate the demanding charging capacity while also providing tools for utilities to plan and optimize future infrastructure development. This study serves as a crucial step in preparing for the potential growth of electrified aviation, with ongoing collaboration between NREL and the FAA focusing on areas like hydrogen-powered infrastructure and enhancing energy resilience for aviation facilities.

Lab Notes: NREL Researchers in Alaska Create Efficient Housing at the World’s Extremes Mar 27, 2024

Show notes

Disclaimer: This episode was produced when the laboratory operated as the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). The laboratory is now the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR).

In the second episode in Transforming Energy’s Lab Notes series, guest host Molly Rettig takes listeners on a journey to Mountain Village, a Yup’ik community working with NREL researchers to design and build super energy-efficient homes amid the challenges of extreme weather and permafrost. Through local collaboration and innovative research and technology, these efforts not only address pressing housing needs but also empower communities to adapt to the changing climate while preserving their traditional way of life.
Housed in the farthest-north LEED Platinum building in the world, the Applied Research for Communities in Extreme Environments (ARCEE) Center focuses on advancing energy efficiency and renewable energy in extreme climates, addressing Arctic and climate-threatened communities, and expanding NREL’s wealth of experience in building technologies. In each project, researchers are working hand in hand with communities to make sure these technologies work for their climate, their economy, and their culture.

Energy Transitions in Alaska and Hawaii, Tackling Microplastics With The North Face, and Renewable Tech Life-Cycle Assessments Mar 20, 2024

Show notes

Disclaimer: This episode was produced when the laboratory operated as the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). The laboratory is now the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR).

In this episode:

Sitka, Alaska, and Molokai, Hawaii, both selected for the Energy Transitions Initiative Partnership Project (ETIPP), are leveraging shared challenges of remote living and energy constraints to pioneer community-driven renewable energy solutions. With Molokai's successful community engagement model inspiring Sitka's approach, both regions are collaboratively shaping resilient energy futures tailored to their unique needs and aspirations.
The Bio-Optimized Technologies to keep Thermoplastics out of Landfills and the Environment (BOTTLE)consortium, led by experts from national labs and universities, collaborates with companies like The North Face to replace petroleum-derived polyester with biodegradable alternatives, aiming to mitigate the environmental impact of clothing microplastics.
NREL dedicates extensive research to life-cycle assessments of renewable energy technologies, crucial for mitigating adverse environmental impacts as we advance toward a greener future. Through code-based assessment methods, NREL scales traditional evaluations to accommodate vast amounts of data, ensuring that technologies designed for sustainability don't inadvertently harm the environment throughout their life cycles.

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