National Renewable Energy Laboratory lays off 114 amid federal funding cuts

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) laid off 114 employees across research and operations on Monday, citing a challenging financial environment influenced by federal stop work orders, new directives, and significant budgetary shifts. These layoffs are linked to the Trump administration's proposed deep cuts to funding for renewable energy research and climate-related programs, with the White House aiming to redirect investments toward fossil fuels, nuclear, and critical minerals while canceling billions in 'Green New Deal' and electric vehicle initiatives. NREL, which employs over 3,600 people and serves as the Department of Energy's primary lab for energy systems R&D, emphasized its ongoing commitment to its core mission despite the layoffs. The reductions may signal the start of further workforce impacts if the proposed budget passes Congress, with NREL and other labs potentially facing continued uncertainty. The lab has a history of enduring federal funding cycles and is primarily funded through third-party management under federal contract. NREL leadership stated the cuts were made to preserve the lab's long-term mission and to focus resources on critical priorities.