William Tumas: Director, Chemical and Materials Science Center, National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
Abstract Meeting our future global energy needs in an environmentally responsible way is perhaps the greatest challenge facing the world in the twenty-first century. An overview the solar energy R&D programs at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory will be presented with a focus on the chemical and materials science aspects. This work spans the range from basic research using theory, synthesis, spectroscopy and characterization to applied research including the fabrication, measurement and testing of devices. The overall goal of this seminar is to outline NREL projects, capabilities, existing collaborations and program plans in photovoltaics, solar thermal and solar fuels to provide a context for discussions of potential collaborations between NREL and MIT. Key results and examples from NREL R&D programs will be discussed. A synopsis of the recently announced DOE Sunshot Initiative to make large-scale solar energy systems cost competitive without subsidies by the end of the decade will also be provided along with a discussion of short-term funding opportunities, workshops and other potential mechanisms for collaboration. Plans and opportunities for developing a solar fuels program focused on solar hydrogen generation will also be discussed.