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Welcome to the California Renewable Energy Laboratory (CREL) at the Kern Community College District (Kern CCD)     |
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About Us
The California Renewable Energy Laboratory (CREL) is based at the Kern Community College District (Kern CCD), serving as a pivotal hub that connects industry, local and national governmental agencies, and workers with the most up-to-date information and approaches regarding innovations that will shape the regional and statewide energy economy for decades to come.
CREL is dedicated to supporting the state’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions
by 2045. To this end, CREL has established four Centers of Excellence that are tailored
to the needs and interests of California community colleges, industry and government
partners and community members across the state. The focus is on clean energy, climate
and resiliency, including best practices, curriculum support, experiential learning,
research, technology demonstration projects, and strengthening partnerships.
CREL History
Launched in 2022 as a $50 million state-funded initiative, the California Renewable Energy Laboratory (CREL) builds on a decade of Kern County innovation to accelerate California’s clean energy future. Through applied, hands-on training, faculty and curriculum development, industry partnerships, and community engagement, CREL connects community colleges with researchers, employers, and public agencies to catalyze innovation, expand economic opportunity, and strengthen climate resilience statewide.
CREL Centers of Excellence
Learn more about CREL's four centers of excellence that are tailored to the needs and interests of our California community colleges, partners, and community members across the state. The focus is on access to state-of-the-art technologies, novel design approaches, connections with leading industry partners, and engagement with federal and state research laboratories to create a more inclusive clean energy future.
Clean Energy and Grid Resilience
Advanced Transportation
CREL aims to be a leader in education and workforce training in electric vehicles, operations, and alternative fuels alongside our industry partners.
High Performance Buildings
CRC Carbon Management Institute
CREL is establishing a hub dedicated to carbon management education, workforce development, and community engagement.
Community and Student Engagement
Community Outreach
Student Engagement
Learn about CREL's commitment to engaging students and educators across California to strengthen energy education and expand pathways to clean energy careers.