Energy challenges define our world. From global competition and lightning-quick advances in technology to climate change and fossil fuel depletion, crises in production and consumption threaten our environment, our prosperity, and our future. Now more than ever, it is imperative that we face these energy challenges head-on.
At DEI, complex challenges demand smart answers. We’re wedding experts across fields, industries, and the globe to advance efforts in energy discovery, development, and policy. Together with the University of Delaware and other partner institutions, DEI aims to marshal science, engineering and public policy expertise in new and emerging energy technologies.
Our efforts go far beyond the lab. DEI is forging new pathways and partnerships in a myriad of places—in classrooms, in industries, in communities and beyond, meeting challenges in energy sufficiency and sustainability where they exist. Energy generation, consumption and costs are issues that affect every single person on our planet. Driven by our passion and united in our mission, together we can expand our knowledge, shape our future, and transform our world.
People power
More than 250 DEI-affiliated researchers are hard at work advancing knowledge in energy policy, catalysts, solar power, and more.
Collaborative focus
DEI’s affiliated and partnering institutes, programs and initiatives help advance its mission in renewable energy research.
The next generation
Our education and workforce development activities focus on teaching and enhancing skills essential to an energy-dependent world.
Research
For nearly four decades, researchers at the University of Delaware have been leaders in advancing energy-driven fields, from photovoltaics and catalyst innovation to fuel cell science and wind power technology. Today, we proudly continue this tradition of world-class energy discovery. Through our centers, institutes, and key partners, DEI is coordinating inquiry into a wide variety of energy-related fields:
Efficiency
New technology has the ability to transform our lives and significantly benefit the environment. Our researchers are engineering technology that could reduce the amount of energy required for transportation, heating, and more, helping to keep consumers, businesses, and governments productive while leaving a smaller carbon footprint.
Renewability
Instead of petroleum, what if planes and jets could be powers with corncobs and wood chips? DEI scientists are seeking to answer clean energy challenges in innovative ways by establishing novel and dependable methods to replenish energy sources on a human timescale.
Materials
From supercomputers and wind turbine blades to orthopedic therapy and spacesuits, advanced materials are integral to our modern life. The work being done at DEI is helping to make hi-tech composites more affordable, reliable and functional, while incubating new businesses by providing students with an entrepreneurial environment and offering industrial partners a broad, in-depth level of research expertise.
Energy policy and economics
The importance of energy goes beyond the laboratory. By bridging the knowledge gaps between a variety of disciplines, DEI aims to link research and advocacy. Today, we’re partnering with centers in topics such as climate action planning, sustainable development, conservation, and more.