FGIA Participants Tour NREL, Hear Research Update at 2023 Fall Conference
Around 40 participants at the Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance (FGIA) Fall Conference had the opportunity to tour the 327-acre National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) campus in Golden, CO. This facility houses research laboratories and the lab's administrative office. Reflecting NREL’s commitment to sustainable operations, the main campus boasts several LEED Platinum-rated buildings, along with multiple on-site renewable energy installations.
“This is not just an office space but also a teaching building,” said Robert Tenent, researcher and one of the tour’s guides. At NREL, Dr. Tenent's research has focused on the development of cost-effective, manufacturing-friendly methods for the production of materials for both energy generation and efficiency.
As witnessed during the tour, the NREL campus also features technology like electro chromatic windows on its balconies and photovoltaic (PV) glass in its cafeteria. Other energy efficient attributes include daylighting, natural ventilation, a next-generation data center and a rooftop PV system. Reused and recycled materials are used throughout, including beetle kill bark repurposed inside as décor and the materials recycled to make the facility’s outdoor furniture. Rocks from the construction process are also used as décor outside. Additionally, the campus offers electric vehicle charging stations for both staff and visitor use.
NREL researches energy and develops and deploys renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies. Those working there seek to advance the science and engineering of energy efficiency, sustainable transportation, and renewable power technologies and to provide the knowledge to integrate and optimize energy systems.