NREL's advanced manufacturing research aims to develop robust supply chains, cutting-edge materials, and novel processes to drive innovation and enable cost-effective energy solutions.

3D printer

Heavy Metal Meets High Tides With 3D Printer

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Manufacturing Masterminds Q&A With Alli Werner

In the latest Manufacturing Masterminds Q&A, Werner shares why she thinks high school students should not have to choose between sports and science, what a summer internship at an Alaskan glacier taught her about field work, and how her latest breakthroughs could help make it easier, cheaper, and less toxic to recover precious metals—some of which cannot be found naturally in the United States.

A smiling woman’s face overlain on a background of black- and- white manufacturing images and icons

Explore Data and Tools

NREL develops data and tools, such as the Materials Flows through Industry tool and the Water treatment Technoeconomic Assessment Platform, to help manufacturers find the most energy-efficient solutions for their products and processes.

Tour NREL's Facilities

Explore a virtual 360-degree tour that examines the tools and capabilities of NREL's advanced manufacturing facilities, especially with regard to power electronics fabrication, prototyping, validation, and application.

The scientific and engineering research in NREL's Advanced Manufacturing Program is driving a more robust supply chain of abundant resources on the grid and accelerating process innovations for energy-intensive industries, like steel and concrete, to help the United States remain globally competitive. Researchers are also focused on developing new, innovative technologies that lower the cost of domestic manufacturing and energy generation.

NREL works collaboratively with academia, national laboratories, and industry partners, including utilities, state and local government, to bridge innovation gaps and drive advanced manufacturing technologies and processes to market. NREL also has facilities dedicated to the R&D needs of manufacturers and other facilities that have the flexibility to adapt to those needs.

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Last Updated Sept. 19, 2025