NREL and Verizon to explore energy-saving technologies.

Press Release Summary:



NREL and Verizon signed memorandum of understanding that could lead to development of new ways to reduce energy use in the information and communications technology industry. Under MOU, NREL and Verizon will share expertise and resources in areas such as energy efficiency and energy management at Verizon's buildings, facilities, and data centers, as well as advancement of Smart Grid technologies and best practices, including energy and communication technologies in homes and buildings.



Original Press Release:



NREL, Verizon to Explore Energy-Saving Technologies, Techniques



The U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and Verizon signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) today that could lead to the development of new innovative ways to reduce energy use in the information and communications technology (ICT) industry.

Through this first-of-its-kind agreement between an ICT company and a DOE national laboratory, NREL's work with Verizon could produce a blueprint for energy efficient operations in one of the most energy-intensive industries in the world on a square-foot basis. Verizon will advance its goals to become more efficient in its own operations and provide customers with intelligent efficiency solutions.

"Innovation and application of energy-saving technologies in a way that makes sense in the marketplace are vital to improving the nation's economy and environment. NREL's collaboration with Verizon offers a variety of possibilities for using clean energy and improving energy efficiency in a large and meaningful way," NREL Director Dan Arvizu said.

NREL and Verizon will share expertise and resources in several areas under the MOU:

o energy efficiency and energy management at Verizon's buildings and facilities;

o energy efficiency and energy management at Verizon's data centers;

o advancement of Smart Grid technologies and best practices, including energy and communication technologies in homes and buildings.

"Verizon has taken significant steps in becoming a greener more energy-efficient company," said James Gowen, Chief Sustainability Officer, Verizon. "By partnering with one of the top science and technology labs in the world, we'll be able to achieve even greater efficiencies in a cost-effective fashion. We're very excited about this opportunity."

The ICT industry consumes 3 percent of U.S. electricity, half of which is by telecommunications. The application of digital intelligence in the operation of offices and data centers offers a significant opportunity to save money, energy and reduce environmental impact.

NREL is the national leader in development of clean energy technologies and has recently built one of the world's most energy efficient office buildings on its campus in Golden, Colo. The 222,000 sq. ft. building produces as much energy as it consumes on an annual basis and includes an extremely efficient data center that is a model for sustainability.

NREL is the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) primary national laboratory for renewable energy and energy efficiency research and development. Based in Golden, Colorado, NREL is operated for the DOE by The Alliance for Sustainable Energy, LLC.

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, NASDAQ:VZ), headquartered in New York, is a global leader in delivering broadband and other wireless and wireline communications services to mass market, business, government and wholesale customers. Verizon Wireless operates America's most reliable wireless network, with more than 104 million total connections nationwide. Verizon also provides converged communications, information and entertainment services over America's most advanced fiber-optic network, and delivers seamless business solutions to customers around the world. A Dow 30 company, Verizon employs a diverse workforce of more than 196,000 and last year generated consolidated revenues of $106.6 billion. For more information, visit www.verizon.com.

Visit NREL online at www.nrel.gov


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