Overview

• The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has laid off 114 employees across research and operations divisions in response to federal funding cuts under the Trump administration.
• The layoffs impact several departments, including wind, water, community energy, and communications, affecting both remote and in-person staff, including non-probationary employees.
• The White House's fiscal 2026 budget proposal reallocates over $20 billion in funding from renewable energy initiatives to fossil fuel, nuclear, and critical mineral projects.
• NREL leadership cited paused or canceled funding as the reason for the workforce reductions, announced during an all-hands meeting on May 5, 2025.
• Staff report significant morale and operational challenges, with concerns about workload bottlenecks and a loss of trust in leadership due to abrupt communication and funding uncertainties.