The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is one of the United States’ premier institutions focused on advancing renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies. Located in Golden, Colorado, NREL is operated by the Alliance for Sustainable Energy for the U.S. Department of Energy.
NREL offers internships that provide students and recent graduates with an extraordinary opportunity to be part of groundbreaking research in renewable energy.
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Hands-On Experience with Real-World Impact
NREL internships are highly regarded due to their immersive, hands-on experience. Interns at NREL are not assigned busywork; instead, they actively contribute to research and development projects alongside seasoned scientists, engineers, and professionals. These internships serve as both a learning environment and a proving ground for aspiring researchers and energy leaders.
Diverse Fields and Interdisciplinary Approach
NREL accepts interns from a wide range of academic backgrounds, including electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, chemistry, physics, environmental science, policy, and economics. This interdisciplinary approach reflects the complexity and interconnectedness of the clean energy sector. Interns work on projects related to solar energy, wind power, energy storage, grid modernization, sustainable transportation, bioenergy, and building technologies, among many others.
Structure, Duration, and Accessibility
Internships at NREL typically occur during the summer and last for 10 to 12 weeks, although some positions are available year-round. Most opportunities are paid and located on-site at NREL’s main campus, though there are increasing numbers of remote or hybrid roles to accommodate students from across the country. This flexibility makes it more accessible for students who are unable to relocate temporarily.
Meaningful Contributions and Research Exposure
What makes NREL internships unique is the direct impact of the work. Interns may find themselves helping to model more efficient solar panels, testing next-generation battery systems, evaluating the energy performance of new building materials, or developing algorithms for smart grid optimization.
Many interns contribute to published research papers and technical reports, gaining recognition for their efforts while still in school. This not only adds significant value to their résumés but also gives them a deeper understanding of how research translates into societal benefit.
Collaborative Environment and Culture of Innovation
Moreover, NREL’s collaborative environment is one of its greatest strengths. Interns interact with professionals from diverse disciplines and backgrounds, fostering a learning and innovation culture. The campus is a hub of sustainable architecture and green infrastructure, serving as a living laboratory for energy efficiency and renewable technologies.
Beyond Technical Skills: Holistic Growth
Beyond technical skills, NREL internships help students develop essential soft skills such as communication, teamwork, project management, and problem-solving. Interns also attend seminars, workshops, and networking events that broaden their exposure to the clean energy industry and public policy. This holistic approach ensures that interns leave with both the knowledge and confidence to pursue careers in the energy sector.
Shaping the Future of Clean Energy
For anyone passionate about renewable energy, environmental sustainability, and scientific research, an NREL internship is not just a resume builder—it’s a career-shaping experience. It places interns at the forefront of the global transition to clean energy and gives them the tools to be agents of change in their communities and future workplaces.
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