Sustainability Analysis

NREL's sustainability analysis work looks at the environmental, life cycle, climate, and other impacts of renewable energy technologies.

Sustainability analysis has three components: environmental effects, externalities, and economics and financing. Through our analysis, we are attempting to answer one key question: What are the sustainability metrics for blends of technologies that are available to meet different energy needs, given varying resource availabilities and development status?

Agricultural Decarbonization

We examine ways to reduce the energy use and greenhouse gas emissions of the agricultural supply chain while identifying and quantifying cobenefits.

Air Quality Analysis

We analyze air pollutant emissions in various regions and sectors and investigate the impact of air quality on public health, environmental justice, and renewable energy generation.

Circular Economy Modeling and Analysis

We use innovative models and research capabilities to provide credible, objective analyses of clean energy systems throughout their life cycles.

Life Cycle Assessment Harmonization

Our life cycle assessment harmonization provides lenders, utility executives, and lawmakers with the best information on greenhouse gas emissions from various sources of energy.

Energy-Water-Land Nexus Systems Modeling and Analysis

Our analyses help policymakers, researchers, and investors understand and evaluate energy choices within the complex web of connections between energy and water.