NETL (National Energy Technology Laboratory)

This publication presents a rich and detailed history of the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) on the 100th anniversary of the founding of its original predecessor organization, the United States Bureau of Mines. This comprehensive account chronicles NETL's organizational history since 1910. To understand our history is to truly understand our organization, and, throughout this journey, A Century of Innovation is an invaluable guide to NETL's mission, vision, priorities, and structure. Our founding organization, the Bureau of Mines, was often a leader in technological advancements that benefitted American industries and consumers. Commencing as a small agency dedicated to making coal mining safer, it developed into a nationwide network of experiment stations supporting petroleum and natural gas production, mining and refining of rare metals, and the conversion of coal into gas and liquid fuels. From energy conservation efforts in the Great Depression, through urgent World War II research into aviation fuels, explosives, and nuclear materials, to its more familiar focus on developing new technologies to secure the Nation's energy future, NETL's path has had many pioneering twists and turns. NETL's efforts and accomplishments have been impressive in their breadth and scope, and our history encompasses a wide range of programs and activities. However, one constant over the years has been the tremendous dedication of the people who have made this organization what it is today. As this book attests, each time a new problem or challenge presented itself, NETL's managers, researchers, and engineers were ready to roll up their sleeves and find a solution. The universal commitment of NETL's people to a cause greater than themselves has been the hallmark of this organization. In 2010, many aspects of NETL would be unrecognizable to its predecessors. But our reputation for innovation has remained consistent. Beginning with the creation of the Pittsburgh Experiment Station in 1910, our evolution has paralleled the transformation of the U.S. energy economy from a system almost entirely dependent on fossil fuels to the current mix of fossil energy, hydropower, nuclear energy, and renewable resources. Our work reflects this mix, as our scientists, engineers, and analysts advance not only coal- and natural gas-based power systems, but also vehicle technologies, fuel cells, hydrogen turbines, water conservation technologies, and the potential of methane hydrates and fossil-biomass blends as new energy feedstocks. Our research activities continue to help assert America's leadership in solving the world's energy and environmental issues. Building on nearly a century of Federal energy research, we are developing and deploying modern technologies, creating jobs, and preparing our Nation's next generation of scientists and engineers.