The National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR), formerly known as National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), has unveiled a new logo as part of an updated visual identity aligned with its new namesake.
The design draws on the laboratory’s location in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, including a stylized mountain peak, a mesa inspired by a feature near its South Table Mountain Campus, and a golden sun representing Golden, Colorado.
Jud Virden, laboratory director, said, “This new logo, inspired by our staff, reflects who we are today, an institution grounded in scientific excellence that is focused on addressing our country’s most complex energy challenges,” and added, “It connects our history to where we’re headed and the impact we aim to deliver.”
The branding change comes as lab experts ramp up research in critical minerals, artificial intelligence, energy innovations, energy system analysis, and energy security, efforts that support goals of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Critical Minerals and Energy Innovation. Those goals include advancing critical minerals supply chains and accelerating next-generation energy technologies to strengthen energy security.
The new logo will begin appearing on the laboratory’s digital platforms, facilities, and communications materials starting April 8, 2026. The lab also plans to end support for its former URL, nrel.gov, with links no longer redirecting as of May 2026. The new domain, nlr.gov, is available now.
This information is newsworthy because it affects how the public will access the laboratory online and reflects a broader shift in the lab’s branding alongside ongoing research priorities in energy and critical minerals.
Source: Press Release
