The U.S. is facing a significant increase in energy demand, driven by AI advancements, the rapid expansion of data centers, manufacturing and industrial growth, and the electrification of transportation and buildings. Buildings alone account for approximately 75% of U.S. electricity consumption and 40% of total energy use. To address these challenges, NREL leverages its state-of-the-art research facilities, advanced energy modeling, hardware-in-the-loop emulation, and real-world demonstrations to provide data-driven insights. Together, these de-risk emerging energy solutions, increase efficiency and demand flexibility, optimize grid controls, and identify vulnerabilities, thereby enhancing our energy security. This presentation highlights NREL’s research ecosystem and its role supporting a more reliable, affordable, and adaptive energy infrastructure in the face of accelerating demand.

 

Speaker:
Rois Langner, NREL Building Technologies and Science Center