NREL is a national laboratory of the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Energy 

Efficiency and Renewable Energy, operated by the Alliance for Sustainable Energy, LLC.

ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE

REPORT 2016 Annual Site Environmental Report per the

U.S. Department of Energy Order 231.B Chg 1
This report was prepared as an account of work sponsored by an agency of the United States government. Neither the United 

States government nor any agency thereof, nor any of their employees, makes any warranty, express or implied, or assumes any 

legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information, apparatus, product, or process 

disclosed, or represents that its use would not infringe privately owned rights. Reference herein to any specific commercial product, 

process, or service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement, 

recommendation, or favoring by the United States government or any agency thereof. The views and opinions of authors expressed 

herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of the United States government or any agency thereof.

Printed with a renewable-source ink on 100% recycled paper and 100% post consumer waste.

Cover Photo: Spirit, a 20-year-old Bald Eagle, completes a flight at the NWTC equipped with a GPS tracker on his back. Spirit and a

Golden Eagle named Nova, who reside at Auburn University, are part of a research collaboration among Laufer Wind, Boulder Imaging, 

RES America, and NREL to develop a radar system capable of detecting avian species to assist in preventing bird strikes with 

wind turbines. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 35743
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 1

This report requires a tremendous amount of data, 

collaboration, and review to be made possible. 

Thank you to all who contributed their time and 

effort to this publication.

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s 

(NREL’s) Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) 

Office staff provided their subject matter expertise 

by authoring content, providing data, and 

conducting technical reviews:

Brenda Beatty 

Genevieve Braus 

Theodore DeVito

Larry Durbin 

John Eickhoff 

Maureen Ray 

Tom Ryon

Kurt Schlomberg

Eric Schmitz

Frank Rukavina and staff members from NREL’s 

Site Operations group provided the sustainability 

content. Suzanne Belmont and Lissa Myers 

provided content for the Climate Change 

Adaptation Management and Sustainability Goals 

Performance sections of the report. 

Leigh Ramsey and Kathryn Ruckman with NREL’s 

Communications and Public Affairs Office provided 

project support and editing.

Laura Margason, Nicole Serio, and Robin Sweeney, 

with the U.S. Department of Energy Golden Field 

Office, worked closely with staff of the Alliance for 

Sustainable Energy, LLC, to continuously improve 

the report, and they conducted the review and 

approval process.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS CONTACT US

We welcome your feedback and suggestions on this 

report and on NREL’s efforts toward sustainability and 

environmental stewardship. To provide comments, 

request a printed copy of this report, or obtain 

additional information about NREL’s environmental programs, please contact any of the NREL staff 

members listed below:

Henry Higaki

Director, Environment, Safety, Health,

and Quality Office 

henry.higaki@nrel.gov

303-275-4212

John Eickhoff 

Environmental Manager 

john.eickhoff@nrel.gov

303-275-3217

Sarah Sloan

Director, Communications & Public Affairs Office

sarah.sloan@nrel.gov

303-275-3650

This report is available online at:

www.nrel.gov/about/ehs.html

National Renewable Energy Laboratory 

15013 Denver West Parkway, Golden, CO 80401 

303-275-3000 

www.nrel.gov
2 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

Acknowledgements............................................................................1

Contact Us...............................................................................................1

Nomenclature........................................................................................4

Executive Summary.............................................................................5 

1 Introduction......................................................................................9

1.1 Purpose.......................................................................................9

1.2 Our Mission ...............................................................................9

1.3 Site and Facility Description..............................................11

2 Environmental Management System and

Pollution Prevention ...................................................................17

2.1 Environmental Management System Structure.........18

2.2 Pollution Prevention ............................................................19

2.3 Performance Indicators and Progress............................19

2.4 Assessment and Improvement ........................................20

2.5 2016 Awards and Recognition .........................................23

2.6 Integrated Environmental Stewardship

 in Construction Management...........................................25

3 Sustainability .................................................................................26

3.1 Sustainability Goals..............................................................26

3.2 Climate Change Adaptation Management..................31

4 Compliance Summary................................................................32

5 Air Quality Protection .................................................................44

6 Water Quality Protection...........................................................46

6.1 Drinking Water.......................................................................46

6.2 Groundwater...........................................................................48

6.3 Surface Water..........................................................................49

6.4 Wastewater..............................................................................49

7 Hazardous Materials and Waste Management..................51

7.1 Hazardous Materials Management.................................51

7.2 Hazardous Waste Management.......................................52

7.3 Aboveground Storage Tank Management...................53

7.4 Spill Prevention and Response.........................................54

7.5 Radiological Materials and Waste Management........55

8 National Environmental Policy Act........................................56

8.1 NEPA Implementation.........................................................56

8.2 NEPA Program Restructuring............................................57

9 Natural and Cultural Resources Protection.........................58

9.1 Wildlife Management ..........................................................58

9.2 Endangered Species and Species of Concern.............60

9.3 Vegetation Management ...................................................62

9.4 Wetlands and Floodplains..................................................63

9.5 Cultural Resources................................................................64

10 Conservation Lands ...................................................................65

Appendix A: Plant Communities at the 

STM Site and the NWTC ...................................................................68

Appendix B: Wildlife Species Observed at the

STM Site and the NWTC ...................................................................75

Appendix C: 2016 Environmental Permits, 

Registrations, and Notifications....................................................82

NREL Environmental Performance Report 2016

South Table Mountain site. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 25300

TABLE OF CONTENTS
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 3

List of Figures

Figure 1. NREL's continual improvement

cycle [section 2].............................................................18

Figure 2. NREL's environmental aspects

[section 2]........................................................................19

Figure 3. Results of 2016 average monthly

chlorine residual monitoring

at the NWTC [section 6]..............................................47

Figure 4. Comparison of disinfection byproducts 

monitoring at the NWTC, 2012–2016

[section 6]........................................................................47

Figure 5. Conservation easement at the STM Site

 [section 10] ....................................................................67

Figure 6. STM Site land cover type surveyed

 in 2011 [App. A]............................................................70

Figure 7. NWTC land cover types surveyed 

in 2016 [App. A].............................................................72

List of Tables

Table 1. 2016 Environmental Goals and

Achievements [section 2]..........................................21

Table 2. Sustainability Goals and Performance

Summary [section 3] ...................................................27

Table 3. Federal, State, and Local Environmental Laws

and Regulation and Compliance Status

Applicable to NREL [section 4].................................33

Table 4. STM Site, NWTC, and Denver West Office Park

Estimated Annual Air Pollutant Emissions 

[section 5]........................................................................45

Table 5. 2016 EPCRA Reporting [section 7] .........................52

Table 6. Comparison of Four Waste Categories

Generated at NREL Facilities [section 7]...............52

Table 7. Noxious Weed Species Identified at the

STM Site and the NWTC [section 9]........................63

Table 8. Wetland Types and Acreages at the STM Site

and the NWTC [section 9]..........................................64

Table 9. Wildlife Species at the STM Site [App. B]..............75

Table 10. Wildlife Species at the NWTC [App. B]...................79

Table 11. NREL's Environmental Permits, Registrations,

and Notifications in 2016 [App. C]..........................82
4 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

NOMENCLATURE

AST – Aboveground Storage Tank

CCR – Colorado Code of Regulations

CDLE – Colorado Department of Labor and Employment

CDPHE – Colorado Department of Public Health 

and Environment 

CFR – Code of Federal Regulations

CO2 – Carbon Dioxide

CRS – Colorado Revised Statute 

CWA – Clean Water Act

DOE – U.S. Department of Energy

DOE Order – Department of Energy Order

DOPS – Division of Oil and Public Safety of the

Colorado Department of Labor and Employment

EA – Environmental Assessment

EMS – Environmental Management System

EPA – U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

EPCRA – Emergency Planning and Community

Right-to-Know Act 

EPEAT – Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool 

ESA – Endangered Species Act

EO – Executive Order

FTLB – Field Test Laboratory Building

FY – Fiscal Year

ISO – International Organization for Standardization

MBTA – Migratory Bird Treaty Act

mrem – Millirem

NEPA – National Environmental Policy Act 

NREL – National Renewable Energy Laboratory

NWTC – National Wind Technology Center

ODS – Ozone Depleting Substances

SPCC – Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasures 

STM – South Table Mountain

USACE – U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 5

Purpose

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s (NREL’s) 

Environmental Performance Report provides a description of the laboratory’s environmental management 

activities for 2016, including information on environmental and sustainability performance, environmental 

compliance activities and status, and environmental 

protection programs, highlights, and successes.

The purpose of this report is to ensure that the U.S. 

Department of Energy (DOE) and the public receive 

timely, accurate information about events that have positively affected or could adversely affect the health and 

safety of the public or workers, the environment, or the 

operations of DOE facilities. This report meets the DOE 

requirements of the Annual Site Environmental Report 

and has been prepared in accordance with the DOE Order 

231.1B Chg 1, Environment, Safety and Health Reporting.

Environmental and 

Sustainability Performance

The laboratory is committed to environmental stewardship, pollution prevention, compliance with environmental 

requirements, and continual improvement in environmental protection and sustainability performance. NREL’s 

Environmental Management System implements a framework of policies, procedures, and programs that integrates 

environmental protection into daily work practices. The 

Environmental Management System is structured based on 

a plan-do-check-act continual improvement management 

model and is implemented as part of an Integrated Safety 

Management System.

Each year, the laboratory sets measurable goals for environmental improvement through the NREL Environmental 

Management System planning process. Goals are also 

established through the Performance Evaluation Measurement Plan and the Site Sustainability Plan. Progress of all 

A Toyota Mirai hydrogen fuel cell car being taken for a test 

drive. NREL is focusing on integrating renewable hydrogen 

fuel filling stations into the existing fueling infrastructure.

Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 40200

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
6 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

ABOUT NREL

goals is tracked throughout the year using an online software 

tracking system. A summary is prepared annually for the DOE 

Golden Field Office on Performance Evaluation Measurement 

Plan results and for DOE Headquarters on Site Sustainability 

Plan results. The laboratory identified several goals in 2016 

to enhance sustainability and environmental performance 

and made—and continues to make—significant progress 

toward them.

Sustainability is integral to both NREL’s research and operations, and the laboratory is committed to demonstrating 

federal leadership in sustainability and continuously improving performance. Sustainable NREL, an interdisciplinary 

initiative involving staff from across the organization, fosters 

environmental and social responsibility, working to establish 

NREL as a global model for sustainability.

The following are some of the laboratory’s key 

accomplishments:

■ Achieved short-term internal environmental and sustainability goals, and made progress toward long-term goals 

(for more details, see section 2, Environmental Management System and Pollution Prevention, and section 3, 

Sustainability)

■ Received several awards and recognitions for environmental and sustainability accomplishments (see sidebar 

on page 8)

■ Maintained International Organization for Standardization 14001:2004 environmental management system 

certification, as verified by a team of external auditors

■ Continued to make progress on identifying and implementing solutions to operational vulnerabilities that 

could result from climate change

Visitors attend the dedication of the Composites Manufacturing 

Education and Technology Facility at the National Wind Technology 

Center, where research related to innovative blade components 

manufacturing occurs in cooperation with the Institute for Advanced 

Composites Manufacturing Innovation and industry partners. Photo 

by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 41857 

NREL is the principal research laboratory for 

DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable 

Energy. The laboratory also conducts research for 

the Office of Science and the Office of Electricity 

Delivery and Energy Reliability. The Alliance for 

Sustainable Energy, LLC, a partnership between 

MRIGlobal and the Battelle Memorial Institute, 

manages the laboratory for the Office of Energy 

Efficiency and Renewable Energy.

NREL is the only DOE national laboratory solely 

dedicated to advancing renewable energy and 

energy efficiency technologies from concept 

to commercial application. The laboratory’s 

innovations, analysis, and expertise have enabled 

the emergence of a U.S. clean energy industry 

and led to numerous success stories from across 

the laboratory. NREL’s two sites, the 327-acre 

(132 hectares) South Table Mountain main site in 

Golden, Colorado, and the 305-acre (124 hectares) 

National Wind Technology Center in northern 

Jefferson County, are living models of sustainable 

energy integration.

NREL develops renewable energy and energy 

efficiency technologies and practices, advances 

related science and engineering, and transfers 

knowledge and innovations to address the 

nation’s energy and environmental goals. 

The laboratory’s research and development 

achievements have helped shape clean-energy 

alternatives for powering our homes and 

businesses, and the nation’s transportation 

infrastructure. NREL’s science and technology 

teams span the full spectrum of innovation, 

from fundamental science and market-relevant 

research, to systems integration and testing 

and validation.
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 7

■ Recognized with a DOE Climate Change Adaptation 

Sustainability Award for supporting DOE in developing 

a guidance document to assist other DOE laboratories 

in developing vulnerability assessments and resilience 

plans

■ Piloted a nitrile glove recycling program, resulting in 

39 pounds of gloves being diverted from the landfill; 

recycled gloves are used in making park benches, 

tables, and fencing

■ Successfully restored an area of the South Table Mountain site that had been disturbed four years earlier; 

the area required several reseeding and restabilization 

efforts before Environmental Protection Agency 

stormwater permit coverage could be terminated

■ Designed and constructed a means of utilizing 

discharge from a new, large deionizing water system at 

the Solar Energy Research Facility for make-up water in 

the cooling towers at both the Solar Energy Research 

Facility and the Science and Technology Facility at the 

South Table Mountain site

■ Identified unneeded or expired chemicals as part of a 

cleanup effort in several laboratories; materials were 

collected for reuse or proper disposal

■ Conducted spill tests using 55-gallon (208-liter) 

water-filled drums to identify the speed, direction, and 

distance over which a potential spill would migrate; 

based on the findings, purchased additional spill 

control equipment and modified response practices

■ Obtained and stocked a rapid-response trailer to be 

used in the event of a large spill 

■ Continued to provide support to DOE in identifying 

potential environmental impacts related to renewable 

energy efforts that support DOE’s mission 

■ Continued acoustical bat monitoring at the National 

Wind Technology Center and conducted additional 

surveys in cooperation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife 

Service at the adjacent Rocky Flats National Wildlife 

Refuge

■ Conducted wildlife surveys at the National Wind Technology Center; highlights included documentation of 

the northern leopard frog (a state species of concern) 

and feline predators (bobcat and mountain lion)

■ Installed bird diverters on the South Table Mountain 

site employee parking garage glass windows, in an 

effort to eliminate possible bird-glass collisions

■ Supported pollinator protection efforts by collecting 

onsite and then distributing milkweed seeds in the 

South Table Mountain site detention basin

■ Participated in a symposium at the National American 

Ornithological conference, presenting experience 

gained on bird mortality due to building glass and the 

enhancements made to NREL facilities to reduce birdbuilding collisions

■ The National Wind Technology Center facilitated 

testing of an innovative radar system intended to 

reduce avian collisions with wind turbines

■ Surveyed and mapped vegetation at the National 

Wind Technology Center, the results of which will be 

used for conservation efforts and weed management.

ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE 

AND MONITORING

NREL is subject to many federal, state, and local environmental laws and regulations, in addition to executive 

orders, DOE requirements, and agreements with government agencies. Unlike many other DOE facilities, NREL 

does not conduct work involving nuclear materials and 

does not have legacy radiological or other contamination 

issues associated with past nuclear weapons production or 

research activities; therefore, continuous radiation or radiological contamination monitoring is not conducted.

The laboratory continued its excellent record of environmental compliance in 2016. No violation notices were 

received from any regulatory agency and all required 

permits were received or renewed; required registrations 

were completed, and required notifications and reports 

were submitted.

NREL Director Martin Keller (right) and DOE Golden Field Office 

Director Derek Passarelli (left) welcome Colorado Governor John 

Hickenlooper to the Energy Innovator Speaker Series co-hosted by 

NREL and DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy’s 

Golden Community Council. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 36901
8 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

Environmental Management Programs

The laboratory continues to meet or exceed compliance 

requirements and strives to make continual improvements 

in environmental management. Major environmental 

programs include:

■ Air quality protection including air permitting, ozone 

depleting substance management, and greenhouse 

gas emissions monitoring

■ Water quality protection including construction 

stormwater management, drinking water monitoring, 

and preventing unallowable sanitary sewer system 

discharges

■ Hazardous materials and waste management including 

pollution prevention; spill response; proper storage, 

use, and disposal of hazardous chemicals and materials; planning; permitting; and reporting regarding use 

and emissions of such materials

■ National Environmental Policy Act reviews

■ Natural and cultural resources protection, including 

wildlife, vegetation, protected species, wetlands, and 

cultural resources management.

The laboratory continued to improve its environmental 

management and performance in 2016, as demonstrated 

by a track record of excellent compliance with regulatory 

requirements and established leadership in environmental and sustainability management. 

NREL’s Continued International 

Organization for Standardization 

14001 Certification Demonstrates 

Commitment to Environmental 

Leadership 

During 2016 the laboratory maintained 

International Organization for Standardization 

14001:2004 certification of its environmental 

management system. A team of external 

auditors conducted an independent assessment 

of the policies, procedures, tools, and roles 

and responsibilities used in environmental 

management. The assessment verified 

that the laboratory continues to meet the 

requirements of the International Organization 

for Standardization 14001 standard and 

demonstrates the laboratory’s commitment to 

environmental stewardship. 

Prestigious Environmental 

Sustainability Awards Received

NREL received several important recognitions 

in 2016 for its environmental and sustainability 

accomplishments, including:

■ DOE Climate Change Adaptation 

Sustainability Award for its work in resilience 

planning in the face of a changing climate

■ DOE Waste Diversion Sustainability Award for 

an innovative and effective waste diversion 

and composting program

■ Green Buy Program Gold Award for 

purchasing 11 products in six different 

categories, achieving DOE’s Green Buy 

leadership goal

■ Three Star Electronic Product Environmental 

Assessment Tool Purchases Award from the 

Green Electronics Council for excellence 

in the procurement of high-performance, 

sustainable electronics

■ Colorado Environmental Leadership Program 

Gold-Level Leader Award for exceeding 

regulatory requirements and for continued 

partnership with the Colorado Department of 

Public Health and Environment since 2004.
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 9

1.1 PURPOSE 

This report presents a summary of the National 

Renewable Energy Laboratory’s (NREL’s) environmental 

management activities in 2016, including:

■ Environmental protection programs

■ Environmental and sustainability performance

■ Environmental compliance activities and status

■ Environmental management highlights and successes.

This report incorporates the U.S. Department of Energy’s 

(DOE’s) most recent guidelines for the Annual Site 

Environmental Report, as required by DOE Order 231.1B 

Admin. Chg. 1, Environment, Safety, and Health Reporting.

1.2 OUR MISSION 

NREL’s mission focuses on advancing the energy goals 

of DOE and our nation. This focus is captured in the 

mission statement: 

NREL develops renewable energy and energy efficiency 

technologies and practices, advances related 

science and engineering, and transfers knowledge 

and innovations to address the nation’s energy and 

environmental goals.

NREL fulfills its mission through technology portfolios. A 

brief description of each major technology area follows. 

■ Basic science – NREL performs fundamental research 

in the sciences that underlie renewable energy and 

energy-efficient technologies. 

■ Bioenergy – NREL has major programs in biomassderived fuels (biofuels) and biomass-derived 

electricity (biopower), and projects in biomassderived chemicals and materials. 

An NREL scientist works with a gallium indium phosphide 

catalyst that can be used in large-scale commercial photochemical water splitting systems to produce hydrogen. 

NREL scientists have identified this and other molecular 

catalysts as potential replacements for high-cost precious 

metals currently needed for large-scale commercial 

hydrogen production. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 35868

1 INTRODUCTION
10 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

■ Building energy – NREL supports the research and 

development of technologies and practices for energy 

efficiency, working closely with the building industry 

and manufacturers. NREL also promotes energyand money-saving opportunities to builders and 

consumers, and works with state and local regulatory 

groups to improve building codes and appliance 

standards.

■ Computational sciences – NREL performs basic and 

applied research using high-performance computing 

and applied mathematics.

■ Distributed power – Distributed power draws upon 

small-scale power generation sources (e.g., photovoltaic cells/arrays and wind turbines) located close to 

where the electricity is used (e.g., a home or business) and therefore provides an alternative to or an 

enhancement of the traditional electric power grid. 

NREL participates in the development of technologies, market structures, and policies that affect the 

incorporation of renewable and energy efficiency 

technologies in distributed power systems.

■ Electricity technologies – NREL supports electricity 

technologies that include renewable energy, hydrogen, and superconductivity technologies, as well as 

utility resources.

■ Energy analysis – Energy analysis at NREL is performed 

to guide policy and investment decisions as energyefficient and renewable energy technologies advance 

from concept to commercial application to market 

penetration.

■ Hydrogen – NREL is a leader in renewable hydrogen 

production technologies and the development of 

codes, standards, and advanced storage and sensors. 

Basic and applied research and material development 

using biology, physics, and chemistry enable and 

support the development of hydrogen production, 

storage, and end-use systems.

■ Measurements and testing – NREL laboratories and 

facilities enable state-of-the-art testing on photovoltaic cells, building technologies, and wind turbines.

■ Photovoltaics – Photovoltaic cells enable the direct 

conversion of sunlight to electricity using solid-state 

materials. The National Center for Photovoltaics 

develops and deploys photovoltaic technology for the 

generation of electric power.

■ Renewable energy resources – Researchers develop 

resource information for solar, wind, biomass, and 

geothermal energy applications.

■ Renewable thermal technologies – NREL scientists 

research thermal technologies including concentrating solar power, solar water heating, and geothermal 

heat and power, which generate power from heat or 

utilize heat from renewable resources.

■ Transportation – NREL works with industry experts 

to develop advanced vehicles and transportation 

systems. NREL also works with energy companies and 

manufacturers of vehicles and engines to develop 

advanced motor vehicle fuels for improved energy and 

environmental performance.

■ Wind energy – Through the National Wind 

Technology Center, NREL develops, improves, and 

demonstrates the viability of wind technology for 

electricity generation and facilitates its utilization 

throughout the world.

An NREL engineer loads a wafer carrier into the Singulas tool, an 

automated wet-process station within the newly completed 

20,000 sq. ft. (1,858 sq. meters) cleanroom located in the Science 

and Technology Facility. The new cleanroom and tool will enable 

reproducible processing of high-efficiency solar cells and collaboration with industry partners and other research laboratories. Photo by 

Dennis Schroeder, NREL 45985

A senior engineer at the Integrated Biorefinery Facility examines a 

filtering basket centrifuge used in the production of biofuels. 

Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 35849
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 11

1.3 SITE AND FACILITY DESCRIPTION 

NREL’s five facilities occupy four separate locations in 

Jefferson County, Colorado, and one location in the City 

and County of Denver. These include:

■ National Wind Technology Center (NWTC)

■ South Table Mountain (STM) 

■ Denver West Office Park 

■ Joyce Street Facility 

■ Renewable Fuels and Lubricants Research Laboratory.

The STM site and the NWTC are the primary locations for 

NREL research operations. The Denver West Office Park is 

leased space used primarily for administrative functions 

and limited research activities. The leased Joyce Street 

Facility space is primarily used for storage. The Renewable Fuels and Lubricants Research Laboratory facility is 

a leased research space that consists of a single vehicle 

high bay and small office area housed within the Regional 

Transportation District’s District Shops and Operations 

Center facility in Denver.

Climate

The climate for the geographic region of NREL operations is classified as semi-arid, typified by limited 

precipitation, low relative humidity, abundant sunshine, 

and large daily and seasonal temperature variations.

The area experiences moderate precipitation, with an 

average annual rainfall of less than 20 inches (50 centimeters [cm]). Almost half of the annual precipitation 

occurs from March to June. Summer showers contribute 33% of the annual precipitation total. Precipitation 

begins to decrease significantly in the fall, reaching the 

minimum during winter. Winter is the driest season, 

contributing less than 10% of the annual precipitation, 

primarily in the form of snowfall.

Spring is a season of unstable air masses with strong 

winds along the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and 

the Front Range. The highest average snowfall typically 

occurs in March, during which time at least one heavy 

snowstorm of between 6 to 10 inches (15 to 25 cm) 

may occur.

The solar radiation (sunlight energy) of the region is 

excellent for outdoor research and testing of solar 

energy conversion devices and systems. Sunshine is 

abundant throughout the year and remarkably consistent from month to month and season to season.

South Table Mountain Site 

The STM site is the main research center for NREL—

nearly 80% of the laboratory’s staff has offices and 

laboratories there. The STM site is approximately two 

miles (3.2 kilometers [km]) east of Golden and 12 miles 

(19.3 km) west of central Denver.

Land Use

The STM site is a roughly triangular parcel of land occupying portions of the top, sides, and lower south-facing 

slopes of South Table Mountain, a mesa that stands 

approximately 492 feet (150 meters) above the adjacent 

lowlands. South Table Mountain is composed of sedimentary rocks below a basalt lava cap, which is quite resistant 

to erosion.

Researchers at the Energy Systems Integration Facility evaluate a 

lithium-ion battery simulation to identify its response to mechanical, 

electrical, and thermal failure. Such modeling efforts contribute to 

improvements in battery performance and safety, and reductions in 

manufacturing cost. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 41716

An NREL engineer assembles a prototype room air conditioner, 

EcoSnap-AC, which is designed as a simple snap-together 

system—with indoor and outdoor components that snap together 

through a wall connection rather than being mounted in a window 

opening. EcoSnap-AC delivers high efficiency cooling, with reduced 

noise and air leaks. The wall connection also eliminates the need

to remove the device during the winter months. Photo by 

Dennis Schroeder, NREL 36341
12 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

The STM site is a 327-acre (132 hectares) area predominantly bordered by open grassland zoned for recreation 

and light commercial activity. Portions of the community 

of Pleasant View are located immediately to the south 

and west. Pleasant View has constructed a recreational 

park immediately south of the STM site. Offices, shops, 

and a tree nursery owned by the Colorado State Forest 

Service are located at the far western edge. Undeveloped 

state land and a Colorado State Highway Patrol pursuit 

driver-training track are located along the northwestern 

boundary of the STM site on top of the mesa. Jefferson 

County open space wraps around the northern and eastern edges of the site. Portions of the Denver West Office 

Park and apartment homes lie to the east.

More than half of the STM site (177 acres / 72 hectares) is 

preserved in a conservation easement. No development is 

allowed on that land, with the exception of some existing 

utility easements and recreational trails to be established 

by Jefferson County Open Space. (For more details, see 

section 10, Conservation Lands.)

Geology, Soils, and Hydrogeology 

South Table Mountain was formed as weak sedimentary 

rocks surrounding lava were eroded away, leaving the 

lava-capped mesa in relief. Below the lava caprock, the 

sedimentary rocks are part of the Denver Formation that 

consists of layers and lenses of claystone, sandstone, 

and conglomerate. Sedimentary rocks of the Arapahoe 

Formation underlie the Denver Formation.

Both the Arapahoe and Denver Formations are considered to be aquifers in portions of the Denver Basin. The 

Denver Formation underlies the areas on which most 

NREL construction has taken place. Groundwater on the 

STM site occurs primarily in the weathered and fractured 

silts and sands of the Denver Formation. There may also 

be some groundwater in the form of perched aquifers 

below the basaltic lava cap on South Table Mountain, and 

within the materials above the Denver Formation, which 

are largely the result of stream deposits. Groundwater 

flow on the site is in a southeasterly direction.

The soil covering the top of South Table Mountain is 

lavina loam. Loam is composed of a mixture of clay, 

sand, silt, and organic matter. The loam on the mesa top 

is a shallow, well-drained clayey soil. Soil on the upper 

side slopes of South Table Mountain is also a loam and 

consists of extremely stony soils with significant amounts 

of clay. Much of the remainder of the site, including the 

area designated for major development, has a deep, welldrained soil referred to as Denver clay loam. It consists 

of clayey material containing some calcium carbonate. 

There are also two smaller soil areas on the southwestern 

portion of the site, both of similar character to other site 

soils—cobbly clay loam and very stony clay loam.

Surface Water 

About 90% of the surface drainage from the site, both 

from the mesa top and across the lower portions of 

the site, flows in a southeasterly direction toward Lena 

Gulch (a tributary of Clear Creek). While there is no 

NREL’s South Table Mountain Site. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 30709 

South Entrance

Employee 

Parking

Café

RSF

STM Stormwater

Detention Basin

West Entrance

East Entrance

Education Center

Visitor Parking

ESIF

RFHP SERF

S&TF

IBRF

TTF

OTF

FTLB

VTIF

HighFlux 

Solar Furnace

Photovoltaic

Arrays SRRL
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 13

permanent stream flow on the STM site, occasional 

flow from extended periods of precipitation, usually 

during the late winter and early spring, is found in the 

drainage channels, with seasonal springs evident along 

some of the mesa slopes. The mesa top features one 

seep that is often active throughout much of the year, 

but the water infiltrates and evaporates quickly during 

the dry season.

Vegetation 

Two primary vegetation types are present on the STM 

site: grasslands and shrublands. The most common 

plant communities on the STM site are mixed grasslands, comprising more than 80% of the vegetation on 

the site. These communities are generally dominated by 

short- and mid-grass species. Two primary upland shrub 

communities occur on the STM site: mountain mahogany shrublands, found on the shallow soils of the mesa, 

and upland shrublands, occurring in drainages lacking 

active channels as well as drainages with associated 

wetlands. Field surveys have identified limited wetland 

and riparian areas along drainages. The wetland 

communities identified on the STM site are a minor 

component of the total vegetation cover, accounting 

for less than 1% of the vegetation over an area of less 

than 0.75 acres (0.3 hectares). Riparian shrub communities also occur adjacent to the emergent wetlands. 

The most recent vegetation survey of the STM site was 

conducted in 2011. (For more details, see section 9.3, 

Vegetation Management.)

Wildlife 

Several comprehensive wildlife surveys have been 

conducted on the site, starting with the original study 

in 1987. Additional surveys were done in 1999 of the 

conservation easement property. Surveys to update 

existing data were completed in 2005 and 2011. 

Numerous mammals, and several types of amphibians 

and reptiles, have been identified during the surveys. 

More than 75 species of birds and a number of raptor 

species have also been recorded at or above the STM 

site by formal wildlife surveys and through employee 

observations. (For more details, see section 9.1, Wildlife Management, and Appendix B, Wildlife Species 

Observed at the STM Site and NWTC).

National Wind Technology Center

The NWTC is the main facility for NREL’s wind turbine technology research. Located on the Jefferson-Boulder County 

border just east of the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, 

the NWTC has abundant wind resources that are critical 

for the variety of projects conducted at the site. The NWTC 

is located near the intersection of Highways 93 and 128, 

between Boulder and Golden, and is approximately 15 

miles (24.2 km) north of the STM site.

Land Use 

The NWTC occupies a 305-acre (124 hectares) area 

surrounded by open space, grazing, and industrial land 

uses. The Rocky Flats National Wildlife Refuge (RFNWR) 

borders the NWTC to the south and east. A restored 

sand and gravel mine is located due south (on RFNWR 

property), and an expanded shale and clay lightweight 

aggregate production operation is located along the 

southern portion of the western boundary of the site. A 

propellant fracturing company also has a small installation 

along the northern portion of the western site boundary. 

The City of Boulder owns open space bordering the NWTC 

to the north; State Highway 128 lies to the north of that 

open space.

Geology, Soils, and Hydrogeology 

The NWTC is located on a plain formed by stream deposits. The uppermost geological layer beneath the site is 

known as the Rocky Flats Alluvium. It is composed of 

cobbles, coarse gravel, sand, and gravelly clay. Below the 

Rocky Flats Alluvium are the Laramie Formation, Fox Hills 

Sandstone, and Pierre Shale. These rock formations consist 

primarily of claystones with some siltstones. Unconfined 

groundwater flow occurs in the Rocky Flats Alluvium 

toward the east/southeast, and small perched zones are 

common. Groundwater occurs as confined aquifers in the 

deeper bedrock formations.1

1 EG&G Rocky Flats, Inc. (1992). Rocky Flats Plant Site Environmental Report, January Through December 1992. Golden, Colorado.

Elk are frequently seen at the NWTC during the winter months. 

Photo by Martina Newman, NREL 36551
14 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

The NWTC has a strongly developed soil defined as a very 

cobbly, sandy loam. The soil is characterized by a large 

amount of cobble and gravel in the soil volume, and 

subsoil dominated by clay.

Surface Water 

The area surrounding the NWTC is drained by five streams: 

Rock Creek, North Walnut Creek, South Walnut Creek, 

Woman Creek, and Coal Creek. Rock Creek flows eastward 

and is located southeast of the NWTC. North Walnut Creek 

and South Walnut Creek flow eastward into the Great 

Western Reservoir. Woman Creek drains eastward into 

Standley Lake. Coal Creek flows in a northeasterly direction across the City of Boulder Open Space north of

the NWTC. 

The majority of the NWTC drains into a tributary to Rock 

Creek. Some of the northern portions of the site drain into 

Coal Creek or its tributaries.

Vegetation 

The NWTC is located in the transition area between the 

Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains.2 This location 

results in a flora that contains elements from both 

mountain and prairie ecosystems, and associations that 

represent residual tallgrass prairie, shortgrass plains, 

ponderosa pine woodland, and foothill ravine flora.3

Vegetation surveys conducted at the site have identified 

more than 270 vascular plant species and defined five 

major habitat types on the NWTC, including xeric-mixed 

grasslands, pine woodlands, shrublands, wetlands, and 

disturbed areas.

Along the northwestern ridge is a ponderosa pine 

woodland area. Vegetation found in this area includes 

woody species with an understory of grasses, forbs, and 

shrubs. The most recent vegetation survey at the NWTC 

was completed in 2016. (For more details, see section 9.3, 

Vegetation Management.)

Wildlife 

Although the site was heavily grazed by cattle prior to 

1975, surveys conducted since that time identified several 

species of mammals that utilize vegetation and other 

habitat that exists at the NWTC. Included among these 

are mule deer, coyotes, white-tailed jackrabbits, and 

thirteen-lined ground squirrels. Amphibians and reptiles 

(including the prairie rattlesnake) and numerous species 

of birds and raptors have been documented in surveys 

conducted since 1992, with the most recent survey being 

performed in 2016.4 (For more details, see section 9.1, 

Wildlife Management.)

Denver West Office Park

The Denver West Office Park, located within the City 

of Lakewood approximately two miles (3.2 km) east of 

Golden and 12 miles (19.3 km) west of central Denver, 

is a relatively flat, landscaped office complex occupied 

2 Plantae Consulting Services. (2000). Vegetation Survey, NREL National Wind Technology Center. Boulder, Colorado.

3 ERO. (2016). 2016 Wildlife and Vegetation Monitoring Report, National Wind Technology Center, Jefferson County, Colorado. Jefferson County, Colorado. 4 Ibid.

*Composites Manufacturing Education and Technology Facility

NREL’s National Wind Technology Center. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 30766

Building 251 Switch Gear 

Building

Grid Storage

Pads

CoMET*

CGI

5 MW

Dynamometer

2.5 MW 

Dynamometer STL

Modal 

Lab DERTF A-60
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 15

by a number of four-story buildings, parking lots, and 

common areas. NREL-leased facilities at this location are 

situated approximately in the geographic center of the 

development. The Denver West Office Park is bordered 

on the south by commercial areas (West Colfax strip), 

and on the west by the Pleasant View residential 

area, Camp George West facility, and the STM site. In 

addition to office spaces, activities at the Denver West 

Office Park include low-risk research related to fuel and 

battery characterization, thermal analyses of vehicle 

cooling loops, vehicle electrical systems analysis, and 

photo-electrochemical hydrogen production.

Joyce Street Facility

The Joyce Street Facility is located in a commercial area 

surrounded by agricultural land, residential neighborhoods, and small businesses. It is currently used by NREL 

primarily as warehouse space; there are no staff offices at 

this location. The Joyce Street Facility is located at 6800 

Joyce Street, about 5.5 miles (8.9 km) north of Denver 

West Office Park and the STM site.

Renewable Fuel and Lubricants 

Research Laboratory 

The Renewable Fuels and Lubricants Research Laboratory 

is used for research, testing, and support activities related 

to advanced fuels, engines, and vehicles to objectively 

evaluate performance, emissions, and energy efficiency 

impacts, including the evaluation and development of 

heavy-duty hybrid vehicles. The laboratory consists of 

a single vehicle high bay and a small office area housed 

within the Regional Transportation District’s District 

Shops and Operations Center located at 1900 31st Street, 

Denver, approximately 12 miles (20 km) east of the STM 

site. The District’s Shops and Operations Center facility 

Denver West Office Park, Building 16. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, occupies approximately 22 acres (9 hectares) of land and 

NREL 44872

A hydraulic hybrid refuse vehicle undergoes chassis dynamometer 

testing at NREL’s Renewable Fuel and Lubricants Research 

Laboratory to determine the fuel economy and emissions impact 

of its hydraulic hybrid technology in a controlled setting.

Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 38575

Joyce Street Facility (leased area indicated in blue). Photo courtesy of 

Google Earth.
16 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

serves as the primary maintenance facility for the Regional 

Transportation System’s bus and light rail train systems. The 

area around the facility consists of commercial and light 

industrial development.

The site lies on relatively flat terrain with a slight gradient 

to the northwest. The general area is highly developed 

with concentrated industrial and commercial activities. 

Very little natural vegetated habitat exists on site or in the 

immediate vicinity. There are trees and shrubs lining the 

South Platte River adjacent to the site’s southern, eastern, 

and northeastern borders.
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 17

NREL’s Environmental Management System (EMS) 

provides effective environmental stewardship and minimizes the environmental impacts of laboratory activities and operations. The EMS is a framework of policies, 

procedures, and programs that integrates environmental 

protection into daily work practices. The laboratory’s EMS 

efforts include:

■ Protection and enhancement of vegetation, wildlife, 

and natural resources of the laboratory sites

■ Pollution prevention

■ Compliance with environmental requirements

■ Encouragement of continual improvement in environmental protection and sustainability performance.

The laboratory strives to continually minimize waste and 

prevent pollution, thus reducing its environmental footprint. Pollution prevention is implemented through the 

laboratory’s EMS, the Hazard Identification and Control 

program, and the Sustainable NREL program.

2 ENVIRONMENTAL 

MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND 

POLLUTION PREVENTION

The iUNIT, a 380 sq. ft. (35 sq. meters) commercially available 

modular apartment, is being tested at the Energy Systems 

Integration Facility to identify energy efficiency and resident 

interaction improvements that can be incorporated into the 

unit’s production process. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, 

NREL 41418

ISO 14001:2004 Certified

NREL’s EMS is certified to the International 

Organization for Standardization (ISO) 

14001:2004 standard for environmental 

management systems. ISO 14001 is a 

globally recognized standard that defines the 

structure of an organization’s EMS to improve 

its environmental performance. ISO 14001 

requires an organization to identify potential 

environmental impacts and establish controls 

needed to minimize impacts, monitor and 

communicate environmental performance, 

and establish a formal process for continually 

improving the system.
18 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

2.1 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 

SYSTEM STRUCTURE

The EMS is structured based on a plan-do-check-act 

continual improvement framework described below and 

depicted in Figure 1.

Planning

■ Environmental policy – NREL states its commitments 

to the environment through this overarching policy. 

The policy commits specifically to:

● Environmental stewardship

● Pollution prevention 

● Compliance with legal requirements and 

voluntary commitments

● Continual improvement of environmental and 

sustainability performance.

■ Environmental aspects – NREL's environmental 

aspects (see Figure 2) are those activities, products, 

or services that are identified annually and that have 

the potential to interact with the environment. The 

significance of an identified aspect is determined by 

assigning a frequency of occurrence and a severity. 

Using this method, NREL’s Environment, Safety, Health, 

and Quality (ESH&Q) staff review potential impacts to 

the environment annually, and activities in the EMS are 

prioritized by the identified significant aspects. NREL 

also utilizes a robust hazard identification and control 

process as part of its Integrated Safety Management 

System to manage environmental risks.

■ Legal and other requirements – NREL maintains a 

formal process to identify regulations and standards 

that are necessary and sufficient to address specific 

environmental hazards as well as federal laws and 

regulations, state and local requirements, executive 

orders (EOs), and DOE orders.

■ Objectives and targets – Regular planning of activities 

and programs are necessary to achieve NREL’s environmental goals. The ESH&Q Office and Sustainable NREL 

plan, implement, monitor, and report on environmental stewardship goals and actions to generate continual improvement. (For more details, see section 2.3.)

Implementing

■ Structure and responsibility – NREL policies and 

procedures establish roles and responsibilities for environmental management within the organization.

■ Competence, training, and awareness – NREL verifies 

that workers are competent on the basis of education, 

training, or experience, and implements a robust environment, health, and safety training program.

■ Communication – NREL provides a number of avenues 

for communication between the laboratory and the 

community including community meetings, lunchand-learn events, publically available websites, periodic newsletters, and community mailings. NREL tracks 

and responds to all environmentally related concerns 

through the Public Affairs Office. Internal communication regarding environmental issues is provided via 

intranet sites, newsletters, emails, meetings, posters, 

trainings, and personal interaction with ESH&Q staff.

■ Operational control – NREL plans and manages 

operations and activities in line with its environmental 

Define Scope

Analyze

H

a

zards,

Perform Work

Develop Controls

Feedback &

Improvement

Environment

Quality Safety

Impacts

& Issues

Figure 1. NREL’s continual improvement cycle

NREL encourages its employees to use alternative transportation 

methods by providing public transportation passes, shuttle 

bus connections to local transit stations, vanpools, ride-sharing 

information, and numerous bike racks. Such practices contribute 

toward management of NREL’s environmental aspects. Photo by 

Dennis Schroeder, NREL 38305
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 19

policy and objectives. Staff continually identifies and 

reviews activities that could impact the environment, 

and engineering and administrative controls are 

put in place to minimize or avoid impacts to the 

environment.

■ Document and record control – Policies and procedures ensure that the current, correct versions of 

documents are available for use and that records are 

maintained to meet requirements.

Checking and Corrective Action

■ Monitoring, measuring, and evaluating compliance 

NREL monitors key activities, tracks performance 

and progress toward environmental objectives, and 

conducts periodic assessments of compliance with 

legal requirements.

■ Internal assessment – NREL periodically conducts 

assessments to verify that its EMS is operating as 

intended. A formal system for tracking corrective and 

preventive actions supports continual improvement 

of the management system. (For more details, see 

section 2.4.)

Management Review

■ Management Review – Management Review – NREL 

management conducts regular reviews of the EMS 

to provide feedback and direction for environmental 

performance of the organization.

2.2 POLLUTION PREVENTION

NREL has made a formal commitment to pollution 

prevention through its laboratory-wide environmental 

policy. NREL fulfills this commitment by implementing a 

variety of controls to reduce the potential environmental 

impacts of laboratory operations. These operations 

include NREL’s use and storage of chemicals and fuels, as 

well as laboratory activities such as employee commuting 

and travel, and energy and water use. NREL’s hazard 

identification and control process helps staff regularly 

identify opportunities to prevent pollution, and formal 

pollution prevention assessments are conducted 

periodically to identify opportunities to reduce pollution 

and improve program effectiveness. In addition, 

resources are dedicated for sustainable operations and 

pollution prevention through the Sustainable NREL 

program. While the majority of NREL’s environmental 

management programs were established to meet 

compliance requirements, many of these programs go 

beyond compliance requirements, continually improving 

environmental performance. 

2.3 PERFORMANCE INDICATORS 

AND PROGRESS 

Each year measurable goals for environmental 

improvement are developed. Goals are identified in the 

following documents:

Figure 2. NREL's environmental aspects

Recycling paper and minimizing waste destined for the landfill 

are components of NREL’s sustainability program. Photo by Dennis 

Schroeder, NREL 32222

ASPECTS

Community

Air

emissions

Surface water

and groundwater

discharges

Wastewater

releases

Waste generation

and management

Resource use 

or conservation

(energy, water, land,

biological, cultural)
20 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

■ Performance Evaluation Measurement Plan – 

DOE requires every national laboratory to develop 

performance goals through a Performance Evaluation 

Measurement Plan. Each fiscal year, in collaboration 

with the DOE Golden Field Office, NREL’s performance 

objectives are developed to enhance the function and 

compliance of laboratory activities.

■ Site Sustainability Plan – Sustainable NREL develops 

a Site Sustainability Plan each year to establish 

sustainability performance commitments for the year 

and document activities that support the requirements 

of EO 13693, Planning for Sustainability in the Next 

Decade. Results of the plan are presented in section 3.1, 

Sustainability Goals.

Goals are owned by individuals and groups throughout 

the laboratory. Progress on each of these goals is tracked 

throughout the year and results are reported annually. 

Some examples of performance related to these goals in 

2016 are described in Table 1.

2.4 ASSESSMENT AND IMPROVEMENT

Assessments support the continual improvement of 

environmental management. Periodic assessment of the 

EMS and its components provides assurance that the EMS 

continues to be an effective tool to achieve and maintain 

compliance with regulatory and legal requirements, meet 

the established environmental goals of the laboratory, 

and demonstrate to ourselves and others that NREL is 

"walking the talk." Internal and external assessments are 

performed to evaluate the functionality of NREL’s EMS.

■ Internal assessment – Staff performs regular internal 

assessments to evaluate consistency of the EMS with 

the ISO 14001 standard, legal, and other requirements.

■ External assessment – Periodically, external thirdparty assessments may be conducted by technical 

experts for specific components of environmental 

programs as part of continual improvement efforts. 

Annual surveillance assessments and triennial recertification assessments are conducted for the EMS as a 

whole to maintain ISO certification. 

Improvements are developed and implemented as necessary based on the results of each assessment performed.

The following assessment activities took place in 

2016 and have allowed NREL to enhance program 

effectiveness and make substantial environmental 

performance improvements:

■ Internal assessments – An internal assessment of 

the laboratory’s spill control preparedness program 

was completed, which involved interviews with staff 

and reviews of relevant procedures and records. The 

outcome of this assessment is included in section 7.4 

Spill Prevention and Response.

Reducing Pollution 

Examples of positive impacts of reducing pollution 

from NREL’s activities include:

■ Replacing toxic chemicals with safer alternatives 

wherever possible to reduce potential exposure to 

employees, the public, and local ecosystems

■ Choosing bio-based and recycled-content products 

to reduce impacts on natural systems

■ Encouraging employees to telecommute or take 

alternative transportation, and supporting Webbased meetings to reduce traffic, air pollution, and 

health effects on surrounding communities

■ Using sustainable, low-energy, and low-water use 

designs for buildings to reduce greenhouse gas 

emissions and use of Colorado’s limited water 

supplies

■ Performing waste audits in facilities to improve 

diversion of materials from the waste stream to 

recycling/reuse streams.

Xeriscaping around NREL buildings reduces water use, the risk of 

wildfire damage to structures, and landscape maintenance while 

providing attractive landscaping. Photo by Warren Gretz, NREL 12640
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 21

TABLE 1. 2016 ENVIRONMENTAL GOALS AND ACHIEVEMENTS

2016 Goals 2016 Examples Goal Met?

Complete National 

Environmental Policy Act 

(NEPA) enhancement 

project 

Completed NREL’s NEPA Enhancement procedures to streamline the review process 

and successfully implemented them throughout the laboratory 

Provided NEPA training and completed quarterly monitoring

Yes

Actively identify potential 

ESH&Q risks and modify 

practices accordingly

Acquired stormwater structural control devices for deployment in the event of 

a spill

Enhanced spill control preparedness by providing training to the Emergency 

Response Team and acquiring additional spill response equipment

Initiated additional disinfectant byproducts sampling to monitor NWTC drinking water 

system performance

Yes

Ensure procedures and 

controls are in place and 

implemented to comply 

with environmental 

regulatory requirements

Staff attended trainings and webinars to continue to sharpen skills and maintain 

awareness of emerging emissions requirements and best practices

Actively managed noxious weeds

Tracked criteria air pollutants and greenhouse gases to evaluate permitting 

requirements (annual air emissions inventory report and Mandatory Reporting

Rule report)

Completed inspections of all STM site and NWTC petroleum drums and storage areas 

to verify conformance to spill prevention countermeasure and control requirements 

Provided annual Spill Response and Awareness training to NREL and contracted 

shuttle drivers 

Yes

Maintain and demonstrate 

continuous improvement 

of ISO 14001 management 

system

Verified ISO standard compliance of management systems as documented in a 

surveillance performed by a third-party auditor

Implemented all corrective actions from the prior year’s ISO audit

Developed and implemented a comprehensive assessment plan

Completed an annual update of ESH&Q legal and other requirements applicable to 

operations and activities and acquired a new software service to improve access to 

regulatory changes 

Completed quarterly trending and analysis of ESH&Q inspection and event data in the 

“Quarterly ESH&Q Data Analysis Report”

Yes

Develop a landscape 

strategy to ensure that 

restoration after grounddisturbing activities is 

efficiently and effectively 

completed

Finalized the Landscape Restoration & Maintenance Desk Procedure, which 

establishes key components of landscape stewardship, identifies roles and 

responsibilities, and incorporates annual planning, fire protection, weed control, 

and de-icing management

Yes
22 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

■ External assessments – NREL underwent an annual 

assessment to verify conformance to the ISO 

14001:2004 standard. The assessment was conducted 

by a team of external auditors and included visits to a 

number of the laboratory’s facilities, interviews with 

staff at all levels of the organization, observations of 

processes in place, and reviews of documents and 

records. The assessment resulted in two findings and 

ten opportunities for improvement. Findings regarding 

universal waste storage and labeling requirements, 

as well as the effectiveness of the corrective action 

process, have been completed.

Reduced risk to facility/organizational mission

NREL’s Hazard Identification and Control Program 

incorporates environmental risk assessment. System 

improvements also support the use of requirements 

to reduce the risk of non-compliance and potential 

enforcement actions. 

Improved fiscal efficiency and/or cost avoidance

Cost savings are realized through energy efficiency projects, 

new renewable energy installations, waste reduction and 

recycling, and reduced environmental incidents such 

as spills.

Greater understanding and recognition of environmental issues at all levels of the organization

Staff are made aware of the potential environmental 

impacts from their work activities through the NREL Now 

internal newsletter; postings on the NREL intranet; new 

employee orientation, and activity-specific trainings; 

policies and procedures; management communications; 

Sustainable NREL communications; and special events such 

as Staff Awards (an annual employee recognition event), 

Earth Day, and Bike 2 Work Day. Improved awareness of 

environmental issues supports environmental performance 

throughout the laboratory.

Empowerment of individuals to contribute to 

the betterment of the organization’s environmental footprint

Staff members are empowered to reduce the laboratory’s 

environmental footprint by participating in programs and 

events for recycling single-stream materials, batteries, 

electronic equipment, and shredded paper, as well as 

a composting program. The program Be the Change 

encourages individuals to suggest changes to improve the 

environment and sustainability.

Integration of environment into organizational 

culture and operations

NREL strives to maintain a high level of awareness in the 

laboratory around safety, health, and environmental 

responsibilities. This is supported through regular 

communications from executive management, trainings, 

inspections, and risk assessments.

Integration of environment into real property 

asset management

NREL includes environmental considerations into long-term 

planning for the STM site and the NWTC. Long-term site 

plans consider wildlife movement across the site, surface 

water management, and climate change impacts.

Improved community relations

The laboratory works to improve community relations 

by responding to and tracking all community input 

through phone calls, email, and community meetings, and 

soliciting feedback from stakeholders through the National 

Environmental Policy Act process. NREL takes proactive 

measures to engage the community with public tours, 

newsletters, and mailings to neighborhoods surrounding 

its facilities.

Improved effectiveness in overall mission

NREL’s EMS supports the organization’s overall mission 

and improves effectiveness by systematically addressing 

environmental opportunities and risks, ensuring 

compliance with regulations, and implementing voluntary 

commitments to achieve superior performance.

Improved collaborative conversation with 

other groups

The laboratory actively works in collaboration with 

stakeholders on environmental issues such as sustainability, 

renewable energy, and resource conservation and 

management. This includes cooperating with other 

agencies in controlling noxious weeds and the 

management of conservation areas. Additionally, NREL is 

a member of the West Environmental Sustainability Team, 

a partnership that provides outreach and resources to 

help the community save energy, conserve resources, 

use environmentally friendly products, and 

practice sustainability. 

Benefits of the EMS to NREL
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 23

2.5 2016 AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

In 2016, NREL received several awards and recognition 

of its environmental and sustainability achievements 

including:

■ DOE Climate Change Adaptation Sustainability Award

■ DOE Waste Diversion Sustainability Award

■ DOE Green Buy Program Gold Award

■ Green Electronics Council Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT) Purchaser Award

■ Colorado Environmental Leadership Program GoldLevel Leader.

DOE Climate Change Adaptation 

Sustainability Award 

NREL was recognized with a DOE Climate Change Adaptation Sustainability Award for its work in resilience 

planning in the face of a changing climate. DOE’s Sustainability Performance Office funded NREL to develop a 

process for climate change resilience planning that could 

be leveraged at other DOE sites. In addition to the vulnerability assessment and resilience action plan, NREL also 

published a summary and best practices document to 

communicate the process used in the vulnerability 

assessment. The replicable assessment process developed 

at NREL will help support other DOE sites as they undertake planning efforts to manage near- and long-term 

climate risks.

DOE Waste Diversion Sustainability Award

NREL received an award for an innovative and effective waste-reduction program for waste diversion and 

composting activities. By proving that recycling and 

composting can be successfully accomplished in office 

buildings and laboratories, NREL has demonstrated 

the benefits of a large-scale recycling and composting 

program, which can be leveraged across the DOE complex.

DOE Green Buy Program Gold Award 

NREL received the gold-level DOE Green Buy Award for 

achieving excellence in sustainable acquisition. This is 

the fifth year in a row that NREL has received gold-level 

recognition. To achieve this award, NREL met the goals for 

11 product types in six different categories.

Green Electronics Council Award 

In 2016, NREL received the Three-Star EPEAT Purchaser 

Award from the Green Electronics Council for 2015 EPEAT 

purchases. Over the lifetime of those products purchased 

in 2015, NREL will reduce the use of primary materials 

by 60.5 U.S. tons (54.9 metric tons), avoid the disposal of 

1,045 pounds (474 kilograms) of hazardous waste, and 

eliminate the equivalent of one U.S. household’s solid 

waste—833 pounds (378 kilograms)—for 2 months. In 

addition, the purchase of those products will save an 

estimated 200,657 horsepower (149,630 kilowatt-hour) 

of electricity, avoid 423 pounds (192 kg) of water pollutant emissions, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 

30.8 U.S. tons (27.9 metric tons). NREL is committed to 

the purchase of products designated by EPEAT, ENERGY 

STAR, and the Federal Emergency Management Program, 

wherever feasible, to continue to positively impact the 

environment through these purchases.

Colorado Environmental Leadership 

Program Gold-Level Leader

NREL maintained its status as a Colorado Environmental 

Leadership Program Gold-Level Leader, the highest level 

awarded by the program. The Colorado Environmental 

Leadership Program is a voluntary partnership between 

the Colorado Department of Public Health and 

Environment (CDPHE) and participating private and 

public Colorado facilities, and is intended to recognize 

environmental leadership and performance.

In early 2004, NREL was the first laboratory accepted into 

the program as a Gold-Level Leader and it has maintained 

this leadership level ever since. As a component of 

program membership, the laboratory’s voluntary 

environmental performance goals, described above, 

further enhance operations and performance at the 

laboratory. Colorado Environmental Leadership Program 

recognizes facilities that voluntarily:

■ Exceed regulatory requirements

■ Implement EMS (which focuses on incorporating 

environmental considerations into normal 

management processes and improving internal 

environmental management effectiveness)

■ Work closely with their communities

■ Establish three-year goals focusing on measurable 

results.

Learn more about this voluntary program at the state 

website: www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdphe/

environmental-leadership-program.
24 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

Special fitted glass was installed on stairwell enclosures at the STM site employee parking garage to prevent bird collisions, a major cause of 

avian mortality, by making the glass more visible to them. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 46044

Improved overall compliance management

NREL maintains a formal process to identify regulations 

and standards applicable to NREL, including federal laws 

and regulations, state and local requirements, executive 

orders, and DOE orders. In addition, compliance with 

these requirements is regularly reviewed through a 

variety of mechanisms, including internal assessments, 

inspections, and monitoring.

Personnel health and safety

Continually improving environment, safety, health, and 

quality management helps make NREL a safer, more 

environmentally responsible workplace and enhances 

the quality of our work processes.

Pollution prevention

Staff regularly identifies opportunities to prevent 

pollution through NREL’s hazard identification and 

control process. Resources are dedicated for sustainable 

operations and pollution prevention through the 

laboratory’s sustainability program.

Improved air and water quality

The EMS goals relating to the use of alternative 

energy sources, the use of clean burning fuels, and the 

minimization of the quantity of chemicals used on site 

contribute toward improved air quality. NREL continually 

strives to protect water quality onsite and offsite through 

refinement and implementation of requirements related 

to the management of runoff, operations, and outdoor 

storage/use of materials at both temporary construction 

sites and throughout facility grounds. 

Improved hazardous material, hazardous waste, 

and solid waste management

Hazardous material tracking through the NREL chemical 

inventory reduces the purchase of new supplies by 

allowing staff to determine if a needed chemical already 

exists on site. This in turn minimizes the generation of 

hazardous waste. The laboratory has averaged above 

a 75% landfill diversion rate for solid waste for several 

years, greatly exceeding DOE goals for waste diversion.

Improved conservation of water, natural 

resources, energy in facilities, fuel in vehicles

The laboratory sets goals for water, energy, and fuel 

usage annually and monitors progress toward each 

throughout the year. 

Reduced number of permits needed to operate

Implementation of the EMS provides a mechanism to 

identify, evaluate, and implement pollution prevention 

opportunities including waste minimization, product 

substitution, and process modification. These efforts can 

reduce the number of regulatory requirements that the 

laboratory must meet.

Benefits of the EMS to the Environment 
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 25

2.6 INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL 

STEWARDSHIP IN CONSTRUCTION 

MANAGEMENT

NREL designs, builds, and refurbishes facilities using an 

integrated approach that allows the laboratory to achieve 

mission needs while addressing environmental, safety, 

health, and community considerations. 

Project Planning and Design 

An interdisciplinary team, composed of members of the 

laboratory’s research staff, ESH&Q, the Site Operations 

group, and the DOE Golden Field Office, collaborates 

on projects beginning with conceptual planning 

and selection of design, and continuing through 

construction. Environmental staff facilitates the inclusion 

of environmental and sustainable requirements as well 

as best management practices (such as bird-friendly 

windows) into design. 

Environmentally Responsible Construction 

Practices

During construction, DOE and NREL staff participates 

in weekly construction team meetings, monitors 

performance criteria, and provides ongoing feedback to 

the project team regarding environmental management. 

Environmentally responsible construction practices 

include: pre-construction review of project plans, 

performing nesting-bird surveys prior to commencing 

earth-disturbing activities, using a "plan of the day" 

to coordinate and control activities, implementing 

stormwater controls prior to starting excavations, 

minimizing impacts to wildlife, tracking waste diversion, 

properly storing hazardous materials, and controlling dust.

Some of the 2016 projects that demonstrate the 

integrated team approach and inclusion of environmental 

considerations in construction projects include the 

following:

■ Renovations to an existing building for establishment 

of the Composite Manufacturing Education and 

Technology Facility at the NWTC were completed under 

a tight schedule and budget, yet still included the 

sustainable feature of a highly reflective white insulated 

coating on the building interior and exterior. The 

exterior coating maximizes solar reflectance, thereby 

providing a more comfortable temperature within 

the building during the summer months. The interior 

coating, in combination with the building skylights, has 

eliminated the need for additional interior lighting, thus 

reducing the energy load of the building.

■ A newly constructed cleanroom in the Science and 

Technology Facility was designed so that excess 

water from a water purifying system flows to an 

adjacent building, where it provides make-up water 

for the building’s cooling tower. This design will save 

approximately 250,000 gallons (946,350 liters) of water 

per year from being directed to the sanitary sewer.

2016 Accomplishments and Highlights

■ NREL successfully maintained certification to 

the ISO 14001:2004 standard. The assessment 

verified that the laboratory continues to meet 

the requirements of the ISO 14001 standard 

and demonstrates our commitment to environmental stewardship.

■ All DOE laboratories are required to document and assess their performance related 

to topics such as environmental objectives, 

operational controls, compliance audits, and 

sustainability goal integration in their annual 

EMS Compliance Report. NREL received a 

score of “Green” (highest rating possible) for 

these performance metrics. 

■ An internal assessment of NREL's spill control 

preparedness program identified two areas 

for improvement, relating to availability of 

Spill Prevention Countermeasure and Control 

Plans and clarification of NREL environmental 

staff notification information used by NREL 

Security in the event of a petroleum spill 

occurrence. Both items were addressed.
26 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

■

■

■

■

■

■

■

NREL pursues sustainability in all laboratory operations and 

strives to minimize the environmental, economic, and social 

impacts of doing business. As one of the nation's foremost 

scientific institutions, the laboratory embraces the best in 

energy and ecological conservation practices, setting the 

standard for the wise use of natural resources. As a leader in 

sustainability, NREL's goal is to minimize the use of energy, 

materials, and water while carrying out the mission of clean 

energy research. In all site development, opportunities to 

integrate energy efficiency and renewable energy, highperformance buildings, and sustainable transportation 

options are sought. On-site deployment of technologies 

developed by NREL researchers is also emphasized.

3.1 SUSTAINABILITY GOALS

In accordance with DOE Order 436.1, Departmental 

Sustainability, a Site Sustainability Plan is developed each 

year to report on past performance and set goals for the 

coming year. These performance goals are integrated with 

the laboratory’s EMS, and progress is tracked throughout 

the year. 

To meet DOE sustainability performance goals, staff 

members work together regularly to improve operations 

and implement sustainable programs including:

■ Site sustainability and pollution prevention data 

tracking and reporting to DOE

■ Sustainability and environmental management 

planning

■ Measurement and tracking of environmental 

objectives, targets, and actions

■ Awareness and engagement of staff and community 

members.

Table 2 summarizes DOE’s 2016 performance in meeting 

its sustainability goals at NREL. For more specific information related to each goal, please refer to the DOE’s Site 

Sustainability Plan, which can be found at: www.nrel.gov/

docs/gen/fy17/67358.pdf.

3 SUSTAINABILITY

Real-time energy use data at the Research Support Facility 

enables NREL scientists to monitor and continually improve 

energy performance of the Leadership in Energy and 

Environmental Design (LEED) Certified Platinum Building.

Photo by Genevieve Braus, NREL 46046 
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 27

TABLE 2. SUSTAINABILITY GOALS AND PERFORMANCE SUMMARY

Goal # DOE Sustainability Goal NREL Performance Status Through FY 2016 Status

1.1 50% greenhouse gas reduction 

from sources such as heating, 

cooling, and electricity use by FY 

2025 from a FY 2008 baseline

Emissions decreased 86% from the baseline Goal Met

1.2 25% greenhouse gas reduction 

from sources such as air travel and 

commuting by FY 2025 from an FY 

2008 baseline 

Emissions decreased 12% from the baseline On Track

2.1 25% building energy use per square 

foot (energy intensity) reduction by 

FY 2025 from an FY 2015 baseline 

Energy intensity reduced 3% from the FY 2015 baseline On Track

2.2 Perform energy and water audits Conducted energy and water audits on 

four facilities

Evaluations are 100% complete

On Track

2.3 Meter all individual buildings for 

electricity, natural gas, steam, and 

water, wherever cost-effective

and appropriate

100% of NREL’s buildings have energy meters (including 

electricity, natural gas, and renewables where appropriate)

100% of NREL’s buildings have chilled water meters

100% of NREL’s buildings have hot water meters 

(NREL does not use steam)

95% of NREL’s buildings have potable water meters

Goal Met

2.4 At least 17% of existing buildings 

greater than 5,000 gross square 

feet in size must comply with the 

revised Guiding Principles of High 

Performance Sustainable Buildings 

(HPSB) by FY 2025, with progress to 

100% thereafter

Six buildings (33% of eligible buildings) are compliant with the 

Guiding Principles for HPSB 

On Track

2.5 Efforts to increase regional and

local planning coordination

and involvement 

Supported City of Lakewood efforts to install a new bike lane 

near the entrance of the STM site

Successfully advocated for a route deviation on proposed new 

public bus route to serve NREL; new route will be instituted in 

conjunction with the opening of a nearby light rail line

Participated in the Denver Regional Council of Governments 

“GoTober” multi-modal month, encouraging NREL staff to use 

alternative forms of transportation 

Developed and implemented improvements to the NEPA 

process with DOE Golden Field Office

Monitored local bat populations at the NWTC and Rocky Flats 

National Wildlife Refuge property in coordination with the U.S. 

Fish and Wildlife Service

On Track

Table 2 continued on page 28
28 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

a Attainment of this goal will require acquisition of zero-emissions vehicles. Currently, the General Services Administration does

not have zero-emissions vehicles available. NREL would have to purchase vehicles in order to meet this goal and funding is not

currently available to do so.

b

 Attainment of this goal will require replacing some/all of NREL’s diesel shuttle buses with zero-emissions vehicles, for which

funding and vehicle options may not be available.

TABLE 2. SUSTAINABILITY GOALS AND PERFORMANCE SUMMARY

Goal # DOE Sustainability Goal NREL Performance Status Through FY 2016 Status

2.6a Net Zero Buildings: 1% of the site’s existing 

buildings with gross square footage of more than 

5,000 intended to be net zero energy, waste, or 

water buildings by FY 2025 

One building (5%) of eligible buildings is net 

zero energy

On Track

2.6b Net Zero Buildings: All new buildings (>5,000 

GSF) entering the planning process designed to 

achieve energy net zero beginning in FY 2020 

No new buildings have entered the planning 

process in FY 2016

On Track

3.1 Clean Energy (as defined in Executive Order 

13693) requires that the percentage of an 

agency’s total electric and thermal energy 

accounted for by renewable and alternative 

energy shall be not less than: 10% in FY 2016-FY 

2017, working towards 25% by FY 2025 

On-site clean energy consumed at 

NREL accounted for 15% of total energy 

consumption

On Track

3.2 Renewable Electric Energy (as defined in 

Executive Order 13693) requires that renewable 

electric energy account for not less than 10% of 

a total electric consumption in FY 2016-FY 2017 

working towards 30% of total agency electric 

consumption by FY 2025 

On-site renewable electric energy consumed 

at NREL accounted for 21% of total electric 

consumption 

On Track

4.1 36% potable water intensity (gallons per gross 

square foot) reduction by FY 2025 from an FY 

2007 baseline

Reduced potable water intensity 43% from 

the FY 2007 baseline

Goal Met

4.2 30% water consumption reduction of industrial, 

landscaping, and agricultural (ILA) water by FY 

2025 from an FY 2010 baseline

NREL does not use ILA water at any facilities, 

therefore this goal does not apply 

N/A

5.1 30% reduction in fleet-wide per-mile greenhouse 

gas emissions by FY 2025, from a FY 2014 baseline

(FY 2016 target: 3%) 

Fleet-wide per-mile greenhouse gas 

emissions represent an increase of 56% from 

the baseline year

Not On Tracka

5.2 20% reduction in annual petroleum consumption 

by FY 2015 relative to a FY 2005 baseline; maintain 

20% reduction thereafter 

(FY 2016 Target: 20%)

Petroleum consumption increased 17% from 

the baseline

Not On Trackb

5.3 10% increase in annual alternative fuel 

consumption by FY 2015 relative to a FY 2005 

baseline; maintain 10% increase thereafter

(FY 2016 target: 10%) 

Alternative fuel use increased 25% from

FY 2015 

Goal Met

Table 2 continued on page 29
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 29

c

 While no light-duty vehicles were acquired in FY 2016, NREL will continue to acquire GSA-leased replacement vehicles with 

Alternative Fuel Vehicles, if available and as needed.

Table 2 continued on page 30

TABLE 2. SUSTAINABILITY GOALS AND PERFORMANCE SUMMARY

Goal # DOE Sustainability Goal NREL Performance Status Through FY 2016 Status

5.4 75% of light-duty vehicle acquisitions must 

consist of alternative fuel vehicles 

(FY 2016 target: 75%) 

No light-duty vehicles were acquired Not On Trackc

5.5 50% of passenger vehicle acquisitions consist 

of zero-emissions or plug-in hybrid electric 

vehicles by FY 2025 

(FY 2016 target: 4%) 

No passenger vehicles were acquired. NREL 

does not currently have or plan to procure any 

vehicles classified as passenger vehicles

N/A

6.1 Promote sustainable acquisition and 

procurement to the maximum extent 

practicable, ensuring that BioPreferred and 

bio-based provisions and clauses are included 

in 95% of applicable contracts 

100% of construction contracts meet 

sustainable acquisitions requirements 

100% of custodial contracts meet sustainable 

acquisitions requirements 

Goal Met

7.1 Divert at least 50% of non-hazardous

solid waste, excluding construction and 

demolition debris 

Diverted 72% of non-hazardous solid waste 

from the landfill 

Goal Met

7.2 Divert at least 50% of construction and 

demolition materials and debris 

Diverted 88% of construction and demolition 

materials and debris from the landfill 

Goal Met

8.1 Annual targets for performance contracting 

to be implemented in FY 2017 and annually 

thereafter as part of the planning of section 14 

of EO 13693 

Continue to utilize funding options such 

as Renewable Energy Credit sales, utility 

rebates, and in-house savings reinvestment 

funds. NREL will explore using Energy Savings 

Performance Contracts along with other 

alternative financing mechanisms when such 

options prove economically feasible 

On Track

9.1 Purchases: 95% of eligible acquisitions each 

year are registered with the Electronics 

Product Environmental Assessment Tool 

(EPEAT), which ranks selected desktop 

computers, notebooks, and monitors based 

on their environmental attributes

99% of eligible electronic acquisitions met 

Electronic Product Environmental Assessment 

Tool standards

Goal Met

9.2 Power management—100% of eligible 

PCs, laptops, and monitors have power 

management enabled 

Power management is enabled on 100% of 

eligible PCs, laptops, and monitors

Goal Met
30 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

TABLE 2. SUSTAINABILITY GOALS AND PERFORMANCE SUMMARY

Goal # DOE Sustainability Goal NREL Performance Status Through FY 2016 Status

9.3 Automatic duplexing—100% of eligible 

computers and imaging equipment have 

automatic duplexing enabled

100% of computers and imaging equipment 

have automatic duplexing enabled. 100% 

of eligible personal printers have automatic 

duplexing enabled

Goal Met

9.4 End of Life—100% of used electronics are 

reused or recycled using environmentally 

sound disposition options each year

100% of electronics at their end of life 

were donated, resold, or recycled using 

environmentally sound disposition practices. 

17,890 pounds of electronics were recycled in

FY 2016

Goal Met

9.5 Data Center Efficiency: Establish a Power 

Usage Effectiveness (PUE) target in the range 

of 1.2-1.4 for new data centers and less than 1.5 

for existing data centers (PUE is generally equal 

to the ratio of power used by a data center for 

computing functions only to the extra power 

needed for data center cooling and lighting)

The Research Support Facility data center PUE of 

1.16 and Energy Systems Integration Facility data 

center PUE of 1.04 are well below the goal of 1.5 

PUE for existing data centers

Goal Met

10.1 Update policies to incentivize planning for and 

addressing the impacts of climate change 

Staff continue to make progress on goals 10.1-

10.4, which are goals identified in NREL’s climate 

change vulnerability assessment and resilience 

action plan 

On Track

10.2 Update emergency response procedures and 

protocols to account for projected climate 

change, including extreme weather events 

On Track

10.3 Ensure workforce protocols and policies reflect 

projected human health and safety impacts of 

climate change 

On Track

10.4 Ensure site/lab management demonstrates 

commitment to adaptation efforts through 

internal communications and policies 

On Track

10.5 Ensure that site/lab climate adaptation and 

resilience policies and programs reflect best 

available current climate change science, 

updated as necessary 

NREL’s recent climate change vulnerability 

assessment and resilience action plan used 

current climate science information provided 

by the Western Water Assessment (which 

serves as the Regional Integrated Science 

and Assessment climate science research 

team organized by the National Oceanic and 

Atmospheric Administration)

On Track
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 31

■ As indicated in Table 2, sustainability goals set by 

DOE were largely met or exceeded. 

■ Beginning in January 2016, NREL achieved net 

zero operational status of the Research Support 

Facility and maintained net zero operations 

throughout 2016. 

■ NREL’s Near-Zero Waste Committee was awarded 

a 2016 DOE Waste Diversion Sustainability Award 

for the waste diversion program.

■ NREL piloted a nitrile glove recycling program 

in 2016. Thirty-nine pounds of nitrile gloves, a 

non-hazardous waste, were collected from the 

Integrated Biorefinery Research Facility and 

recycled into items such as park benches, tables, 

and fencing. NREL plans to expand the program to 

other labs in 2017.

■ NREL’s electronics purchasing team was awarded 

the Three-Star 2016 EPEAT Purchaser Award from 

the Green Electronics Council for their exceptional 

commitment in support of NREL’s mission to 

ensure purchases meet established Electronics 

Council Electronic Product Environmental 

Assessment Tool and Energy Star ratings 

wherever possible.

2016 Compliance Summary and Activities 

■ Program activities were in compliance with 

requirements. 

3.2 CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION 

MANAGEMENT 

As climate change becomes more apparent worldwide, 

NREL is proactively engaged in mitigation and adaptation strategies to manage site-specific climate risks, and 

improve resiliency of operations to ensure continuity of 

achieving the laboratory’s mission.

2016 Compliance Summary and Activities 

■ Program activities were in compliance with 

requirements.

■ In accordance with Executive and DOE orders, NREL 

continued to develop specific solutions to operational 

vulnerabilities identified in 20155 that could result from 

climate change. Two major activities are underway 

including the creation of control technologies to better 

manage electricity demand at NREL sites, and conducting preliminary analysis of adding battery storage on 

the STM site to assess the feasibility of ensuring backup 

power to facilities during power outages. 

■ The laboratory supported DOE in producing a guidance document to assist other DOE laboratories in 

developing climate change vulnerability screenings.

■ NREL’s staff provided guidance to several organizations 

regarding climate change vulnerability assessment and 

resiliency planning. These groups included the Certified Climate Change Professionals, the City of Colorado 

Springs Office of Sustainability, and the Energy Facility 

Contractor’s Group, the latter with members from all 

DOE national laboratories. 

■ NREL was recognized with a 2016 DOE Climate Change 

Adaptation Sustainability Award for progress made in 

resilience planning.

2016 Accomplishments and Highlights 

A vehicle charging station at the Vehicle Testing and Integration 

Facility where electric vehicles can be charged from electricity 

generated by solar cells mounted on an overhead canopy/shade 

structure. Photo by Matthew Staver, NREL 39254

5 J. Vogel and S. Renfrow. (2016). "Vulnerability Assessment and Resiliency Planning: 

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory's Process and Best Practices, May 23, 

2014-June 5, 2015," Abt Associates, Inc., Boulder, CO, February 2016.
32 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

NREL is subject to many federal and state laws and regulations, as well as Executive and DOE Orders and memoranda of understanding with government agencies. By 

observing these rules and regulations, NREL continues its 

excellent record of environmental compliance.

Table 3 includes a brief description of the statute or 

regulation and how compliance requirements were 

met this year. More detailed information for each area 

of compliance is found in the referenced sections 

of this report. (For information on required permits, 

registrations, and notifications, see Appendix C.)

4 COMPLIANCE SUMMARY

An NREL researcher coats solar cells with a chemically tuned 

quantum dot solution to increase the range of wavelengths 

of light that can be absorbed, thus boosting the cell’s 

efficiency. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 44066
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 33

Table 3 continued on page 34

TABLE 3. FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS AND REGULATION

AND COMPLIANCE STATUS APPLICABLE TO NREL 

Report 

Sections Regulatory Program Description Compliance Status and Highlights Regulator &Requirement

Report DOE Order 231.1B, Chg 1, Environment, Safety and 

Health Reporting, was implemented to ensure that DOE 

receives timely, accurate information about events that 

have affected or could adversely affect the health and 

safety of the public or workers, the environment, or the 

operations of DOE facilities. The order requires that DOE 

facilities report specific site environmental information 

annually, including environmental management 

performance, environmental occurrences and response, 

compliance with environmental standards and 

requirements, significant programs and efforts, and 

property clearance activities for property contaminated 

with radiological materials.

NREL reports annually via this 

Environmental Performance Report.

DOE:

DOE Order 

231.1B, Chg 1

EMS and 

Sustainability

Executive Order 13693, Planning for Sustainability 

in the Next Decade, establishes updated goals for 

environmental sustainability in the federal government. 

These goals require federal facilities to conserve natural 

resources, reduce energy use and greenhouse gas 

emissions, develop renewable energy, manage buildings 

and transportation in a sustainable manner, and support 

pollution prevention.

EO 13693, together with DOE Order 436.1, Departmental 

Sustainability, requires that the laboratory implement an 

EMS that conforms to the ISO 14001 structure. The EMS 

is implemented as part of a DOE-required Integrated 

Safety Management System, which systematically 

integrates safety and environmental protection into 

management and work practices at all levels to protect 

the public, the worker, and the environment.

Each year, a Site Sustainability Plan is 

developed to report on past performance 

and set goals for the coming year. These 

performance goals are integrated with the 

laboratory’s EMS, and progress is tracked 

throughout the year. 

NREL’s EMS is certified to the ISO 

14001:2004 international standard for 

environmental management systems 

and has been certified to ISO 14001 since 

2011. Annual assessments verify that NREL 

meets the ISO standard and is continually 

improving performance.

Executive 

Order:

EO 13693

DOE:

DOE Order 

436.1

Climate 

Change 

Adaptation 

Management

 EO 13693, Planning for Federal Sustainability in the 

Next Decade, requires every federal agency to report 

on sustainability performance each year. DOE Order 

436.1 requires federal agencies to annually submit 

a Site Sustainability Plan to the DOE’s Sustainability 

Performance Office. 

EO 13653, Preparing the United States for the Impacts 

of Climate Change, requires NREL to include in its Site 

Sustainability Plan the progress the laboratory has made 

in meeting the climate change resilience goals specified 

in EO 13693. 

All program activities were in compliance 

with requirements.

In accordance with Executive and DOE 

Orders, NREL continued to develop specific 

solutions to operational vulnerabilities 

identified in 2015 that could result from 

climate change. Two major activities that 

are underway are the creation of control 

technologies to better manage electricity 

demand at NREL sites, and conducting 

a preliminary analysis of adding battery 

storage on the STM site to assess the 

feasibility of ensuring backup power to 

facilities during power outages. 

Executive 

Orders:

EO 13653 

EO 13693 

DOE:

DOE Order 

436.1
34 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

Table 3 continued on page 35

TABLE 3. FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS AND REGULATION

AND COMPLIANCE STATUS APPLICABLE TO NREL

Report 

Sections Regulatory Program Description Compliance Status and Highlights Regulator &Requirement

Air

Quality

The Air Pollution Control Division of Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) administers the federal Clean Air Act implementing regulations 

for all point sources (facilities or other types of operations) in Colorado, under authority delegated by the 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Categories 

of regulated air pollutants include: criteria air pollutants, hazardous air pollutants (HAPs), ozone-depleting 

substances, and greenhouse gases.

For facilities and stationary sources that emit criteria air 

pollutants and hazardous air pollutants, there are both 

federal and state requirements for permitting, reporting, 

emission controls, and operations, depending upon the 

type and amount of air pollutants emitted. Generally, 

these requirements become stricter as the quantity of 

air pollutants emitted increases, or the air pollutants 

have a higher potential for harm or adverse effect.

Greenhouse gases emitted by certain facilities are 

required by EPA regulations to be tracked and reported 

if the emissions are greater than 27,557 U.S. tons (25,000 

metric tons) of carbon dioxide equivalent per year. The 

purpose of this reporting is to better identify the actual 

emissions of such gases across the United States and 

provide the EPA with data upon which to base future 

greenhouse gas regulations. Reporting and permitting 

of greenhouse gases may be required under the EPA 

Prevention of Significant Deterioration regulation, Title 

V Tailoring Rule, and is required under the EPA Greenhouse Gas Mandatory Reporting Rule.

Additionally, permits for major emissions sources (greater than 100 U.S. tons [9 metric tons] per year of a criteria 

pollutant) may be required to include greenhouse gases 

in the permit if carbon dioxide equivalent emissions are 

greater than 100,000 U.S. tons (90,718 metric tons) 

per year.

EPA’s Protection Of Stratospheric Ozone (40 Code of 

Federal Regulations [CFR 82]) requires that servicing records must be kept for appliances containing more than 

50 pounds (23 kilograms) of Class 1 or 2 Ozone Depleting Substances refrigerant.

There are several state air regulations for sources of 

particulate pollution, including large construction sites 

and street sanding operations in the winter. Particulate 

emissions, such as dust from construction sites larger 

than 25 acres (10.1 hectares), or occurring for longer than 

six months, are subject to state fugitive particulate emissions permits. State regulations require federal, state, and 

local government facilities to track street sanding in the 

winter and to minimize sand use. 

All program activities were in compliance 

with requirements. NREL did not exceed any 

air permit standard or other air regulatory 

requirement at any facility.

An evaluation of HAP Emissions indicated 

that emissions were well below reporting 

and permitting thresholds at all NREL sites.

On behalf of the state, Jefferson County 

Public Health conducted a compliance 

inspection of permitted sources at the 

NWTC. All four standby generators and the 

Composites Manufacturing Education and 

Technology Facility were inspected. No 

concerns or deficiencies were identified.

The annual evaluation of compliance with 

federal and state facility-wide permitting 

and emissions control requirements was 

completed. All facilities and individually 

permitted equipment items remain 

classified as minor sources.

The required annual street sanding report 

was provided to the state and Jefferson 

County confirming that no sand was used.

The laboratory evaluated carbon dioxideequivalent and greenhouse gas emissions 

and concluded they were below the 

threshold for federal reporting and 

permitting rules.

All equipment registrations for staterequired ozone-depleting substances were 

completed for the STM site and NWTC. Per 

federal requirements, refrigerant recovery 

equipment has also been registered with 

the EPA.

Four air permits for three standby generators at the STM site were renewed.

An air permit covering an ammonia scrubber and particulate baghouse at the STM 

site was renewed. 

An Air Pollution Emission Notice was submitted to the state for new research activity 

at the NWTC Composites Manufacturing 

Education and Technology Facility.

Final testing documentation was submitted 

to the state confirming that the Renewable 

Fuels Heating Plant emissions control equipment is operating in compliance with the air 

permit following firebox modifications.

National Ambient 

Air Quality 

Standards:

40 CFR 50

Ozone Depleting 

Substances 

(ODS):

40 CFR 82 

and CDPHE 

Colorado Code of 

Regulations (CCR) 

1001-19, Reg. 15

New Source 

Performance 

Standards:

40 CFR 60

New Source 

Review, 

Prevention 

of Significant 

Deterioration:

40 CFR 51

Title V:

40 CFR 70 and 71

National Emission 

Standards for 

Hazardous 

Air Pollutants, 

Hazardous Air 

Pollutant:

40 CFR 63 and 

CDPHE 5 CCR 

1001-5, Reg. 3

Permitting:

CDPHE 5 CCR 

1001-5, Reg. 3

Greenhouse Gas:

40 CFR 98 and 40 

CFR 51, 52, 70, 71

Street Sanding:

CDPHE 5 CCR 

1001-18, Reg. 16
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 35

Table 3 continued on page 36

TABLE 3. FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS AND REGULATION

AND COMPLIANCE STATUS APPLICABLE TO NREL 

Report 

Sections Regulatory Program Description Compliance Status and Highlights Regulator &Requirement

Drinking 

Water Quality

The federal Safe Drinking Water Act establishes 

minimum drinking water standards and monitoring 

requirements for drinking water supplies. Under 

this Act, the EPA has established allowable levels for 

contaminants in drinking water known as Maximum 

Contaminant Levels. 

The Water Quality Control Division of CDPHE 

implements the federal Safe Drinking Water Act in 

Colorado under authority delegated by the EPA. 

Program activities were in compliance 

with requirements.

All monitored parameters met applicable 

requirements.

An inventory of lead- and coppercontaining materials within the 

infrastructure for the NWTC drinking 

water distribution system was prepared 

and provided to the CDPHE Water Quality 

Control Commission. Recommendations 

were also provided to the state for revised 

lead and copper sampling locations that 

more accurately reflect higher tap use and 

the risk of the metals’ occurrence. 

The drinking water supply at the NWTC 

was disrupted over the July 4 holiday 

weekend which depleted the water 

storage in the system storage tanks. The 

NWTC Operator in Responsible Charge 

worked with NREL staff to identify the 

cause of the disruption. Controls were 

subsequently modified to ensure that 

system shutoff would occur immediately 

if, in the future, a fixture/tap is stuck in the 

on position.

A total of 490,656 gallons (1,857,335 liters) 

of drinking water were provided to 

NWTC users.

EPA:

40 CFR

141-149

CDPHE:

5 CCR 1002-11 

Reg. 11

Groundwater 

Quality

Colorado groundwater quality standards are established 

by CDPHE. Permits for groundwater wells are issued 

by the Colorado Department of Natural Resources. 

Permits are required for the drinking water, geothermal, 

irrigation, livestock watering, dewatering, monitoring, 

and geothermal well installations. 

All program activities were in compliance 

with requirements.

State groundwater permits obtained 

in 2015 from the Colorado Division of 

Natural Resources for three monitoring 

wells installed at the STM site on the 

north side of the Field Testing Laboratory 

Building were converted from temporary 

to permanent permits. This will allow 

continued monitoring of the wells to 

determine if groundwater or surface water 

is the source of water that was observed 

within the FTLB. 

CDPHE:

5 CCR 1002-41

2 CCR 402-2

2 CCR 402-10
36 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

Table 3 continued on page 37

TABLE 3. FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS AND REGULATION

AND COMPLIANCE STATUS APPLICABLE TO NREL

Report 

Sections Regulatory Program Description Compliance Status and Highlights Regulator &Requirement

Surface 

Water 

Quality

Surface water quality is controlled through the federal 

Clean Water Act (CWA), Energy Independence and 

Security Act of 2007, EO 13693, Planning for Federal 

Sustainability in the Next Decade, and the Colorado Water 

Quality Control Act. 

Stormwater discharges resulting from construction 

activities at federal facilities that disturb greater than one 

acre are administered in Colorado by the EPA. To obtain 

coverage under the EPA Construction General Permit 

for stormwater discharges, a site-specific Stormwater 

Pollution Prevention Plan must be prepared and a 

Notice of Intent must be filed with the EPA. 

The Water Quality Control Division within CDPHE 

regulates stormwater discharges at non-federal facilities 

within Colorado. For NREL construction projects that 

occur off federal property, a Colorado Discharge Permit 

System stormwater permit may be required.

The Energy Independence and Security Act requires federal agencies to reduce stormwater runoff from federal 

development projects to protect water resources. 

Agencies can comply by using low-impact design elements such as porous pavers, cisterns, and bioswales, 

or by retaining stormwater runoff and releasing it at 

predevelopment rates.

EO 13693, Planning for Federal Sustainability in the Next 

Decade, directs federal agencies to install appropriate 

green infrastructure features to improve stormwater 

management.

Program activities were in compliance with 

requirements.

Permit coverage under the EPA Construction 

General Permit for one construction project 

was terminated after achieving the required 

restoration criteria. Permit coverage continues 

for one STM site construction project. 

Periodic stormwater inspections were 

performed at locations where earthdisturbing activities have occurred. The 

inspections and any resulting maintenance of 

structural stormwater erosion and sediment 

controls took place on construction sites 

operating under the EPA Construction 

General Permit and at smaller areas where 

permit coverage was not required but where 

stormwater best management practices 

are followed. 

Design was completed for stormwater 

conveyance improvements at the NWTC, 

which will improve management of frequent 

low flow events and address storage and 

water quality requirements associated 

with the federal Energy Independence and 

Security Act.

EPA:

40 CFR 122.26

CDPHE:

5 CCR 1002-61

Regs. 38, 61, 

65, and 93

Executive 

Order:

EO 13693

WastewaterWastewater is regulated at the federal level under 

the Clean Water Act and at the state level under the 

Colorado Water Quality Control Act by the Water Quality 

Control Division of CDPHE. 

The Metro Wastewater and Reclamation District (Metro 

District) manages wastewater at its treatment plant per 

federal and state requirements. Domestic and nondomestic wastewater flows are delivered to the Metro 

District's plant via conveyance systems owned, operated 

and regulated by numerous sanitation districts. 

Non-domestic wastewater discharges to the Metro 

District must comply with the Metro District’s rules and 

regulations which incorporate requirements of the Clean 

Water Act.

Onsite septic systems are regulated by the CDPHE Water 

Quality Control Division. Inspection and permitting 

of individual sewage disposal systems have been 

delegated to Jefferson County by CDPHE.

All program activities were in compliance with 

requirements.

EPA:

40 CFR 122-136

CDPHE:

5 CCR 1002-62, 

63
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 37

Table 3 continued on page 38

TABLE 3. FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS AND REGULATION

AND COMPLIANCE STATUS APPLICABLE TO NREL

Report 

Sections Regulatory Program Description Compliance Status and Highlights Regulator &Requirement

Hazardous 

Materials 

Management

Hazardous material management is regulated at the 

federal level through the Superfund Amendments 

and Reauthorization Act Title III, which is also known 

as the Emergency Planning and Community Right-toKnow Act of 1986 (EPCRA). EPCRA was created to help 

communities and federal, state, and local governments 

plan for emergencies involving hazardous substances. It 

also requires industry to report on the storage, use, and 

accidental release of hazardous chemicals to federal, 

state, and local governments. NREL facilities are subject 

to Sections 302, 304, 311, 312, and 313 of EPCRA. 

Section 302 of EPCRA requires a facility to notify the 

state and local emergency response and planning 

agencies if any extremely hazardous substances in the 

facility's inventory are stored in quantities greater than 

regulatory thresholds. 

EPCRA Section 304 requires facilities to immediately 

notify the state and local emergency response and 

planning agencies if there is an accidental spill or release 

of more than the predetermined reportable quantity. 

In accordance with Sections 311 and 312 of EPCRA, NREL 

provides Safety Data Sheets for chemicals that are stored 

on site in quantities greater than regulatory thresholds. 

In addition, NREL provides inventory reporting for these 

chemicals in an annual hazardous materials report, 

called a Tier II report, to state and local emergency 

response agencies and local fire departments.

EPCRA Section 313 requires that a toxic chemical release 

inventory report be filed with the EPA in the event 

of a release for any chemical that is manufactured, 

processed, or otherwise used in quantities exceeding 

regulatory thresholds.

Annual hazardous material permits are required by 

West Metro Fire Rescue for the STM site and Denver 

West Office Park. Permits are issued for a total of seven 

buildings where hazardous materials are stored and/

or used. Prior to issuing the permits, a representative 

from West Metro Fire Rescue conducts a walk-through 

inspection of the entire STM site and Denver West

Office Park.

The Renewable Fuels and Lubricants Research 

Laboratory, located within the City and County of 

Denver, is subject to the Denver Fire Department’s 

Hazardous Materials Information System requirements 

including permitting, inventory, and annual inspection. 

This facility’s inventory of listed materials, including 

various fuels such as biodiesel, must be reported to the 

Denver Fire Department annually. 

Hazardous materials permits are currently not required 

at the NWTC or the Joyce Street Facility.

All program activities were in compliance 

with requirements. 

There were no releases of hazardous 

materials that required reporting. In 

accordance with DOE requirements, NREL 

screened selected chemicals to confirm 

that inventories are below threshold 

planning quantities.

EPCRA Tier II hazardous materials reports 

were submitted for three facilities for 

reporting year 2015. The reports help 

state and local emergency response 

and planning agencies and local 

fire departments plan for chemical 

emergencies. Chemicals reported include 

diesel fuel, petroleum oil, and sulfuric acid 

contained in sealed lead-acid batteries.

West Metro Fire Rescue conducted an 

annual hazardous material inspection and 

issued permits for seven facilities.

The Denver Fire Department issued 

a hazardous materials permit for the 

Renewable Fuels and Lubricants 

Research Laboratory.

EPA:

40 CFR 355, 

370, 372

Executive 

Order:

EO 13693

DOE:

DOE Order 

151.1D
38 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

Table 3 continued on page 39

TABLE 3. FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS AND REGULATION

AND COMPLIANCE STATUS APPLICABLE TO NREL

Report 

Sections Regulatory Program Description Compliance Status and Highlights Regulator &Requirement

Hazardous 

Waste 

Management

(continued) 

The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act established requirements for the management of regulated 

waste, including hazardous waste. In Colorado, the 

Hazardous Materials and Waste Management Division of 

CDPHE administers requirements under authority delegated by the EPA. Additional applicable requirements 

for hazardous material transportation are regulated by 

the U.S. Department of Transportation.

NREL maintains unique EPA identification numbers for 

each of its five facilities: STM site, Denver West Office 

Park, NWTC, Joyce Street Facility, and the Renewable 

Fuels and Lubricants Research Laboratory. Per state and 

federal regulations, annual generator notifications are 

made and applicable fees are paid to the state based on 

monthly volumes of hazardous waste that are generated 

at each facility. 

The three waste generator classifications are:

■ Large Quantity Generator

■ Small Quantity Generator

■ Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generator.

Four out of five of NREL’s sites fall under the waste generator category of Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity 

Generator because they generate minimal amounts of 

hazardous waste per calendar month. The STM site typically produces quantities of hazardous waste well within 

the category of Small Quantity Generator; however, due 

to pilot-scale research experiments, the STM site can 

episodically elevate to that of Large Quantity Generator 

category in one or more months during the year.

All program activities were in compliance 

with requirements. 

Fourteen hazardous and 13 universal 

waste shipments for offsite disposal were 

made across NREL’s five sites.

Mandatory training on employee hazardous and universal waste management 

was completed in compliance with state 

and federal regulations.

All regulatory notifications were submitted and applicable waste generator fees 

were paid.

EPA:

40 CFR

260- 280

CDPHE:

6 CCR 1007-3

Aboveground 

Storage Tank 

Management

Aboveground storage tanks (ASTs) are regulated in 

Colorado by the Colorado Department of Labor and 

Employment’s (CDLE) Division of Oil and Public Safety 

(DOPS) under the Colorado Aboveground Storage

Tank regulation. 

ASTs with capacities of 660 gallons (2,498 liters) or larger 

must be permitted prior to installation, inspected by 

the state following installation, registered with the state 

within 30 days following commencement of use, and 

registration renewals submitted annually thereafter.

Regulations require that ASTs be constructed and 

installed according to specific standards, be regularly 

inspected with all inspections documented, and that 

facilities meeting certain oil storage quantities employ a 

Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasures plan to 

manage oil sources 55 gallons (208 liters) or larger.

All program activities were in compliance 

with requirements.

A state inspection of the five registered 

ASTs at the STM site was conducted.

The state noted that NREL has and 

continues to demonstrate high levels

of compliance. 

Signage on all diesel tanks was reviewed 

and updated to comply with new 

changes in National Fire Protection 

Association standards.

All tanks were inspected for paint, 

leak detection, and piping to identify 

maintenance needs. Maintenance will be 

completed in 2017.

CDLE:

DOPS 

Storage Tank 

Regulations

7 CCR 1101-14

Rocky 

Mountain Fire 

Protection 

District, West 

Metro Fire 

Protection 

District:

International 

Fire Code, 

Sections 

5003.5 and 

5704.2.3.2; 

National Fire 

Protection 

Association 

704 (2012 Ed.)
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 39

Table 3 continued on page 40

TABLE 3. FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS AND REGULATION

AND COMPLIANCE STATUS APPLICABLE TO NREL

Report 

Sections Regulatory Program Description Compliance Status and Highlights Regulator &Requirement

Spill

Prevention

and

Response

Oil spill prevention and response is managed at the 

federal level under the Oil Pollution Prevention Act and 

Clean Water Act, and at the state level under Colorado 

Storage Tank Regulations as implemented by DOPS. 

Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasures (SPCC) 

plans are required by EPA and Colorado regulations for 

facilities that meet certain oil storage criteria. In general, 

facilities that store more than 1,320 gallons (5,000 liters) 

of oil and have the potential for a spill to enter a waters 

of the United States or state of Colorado waters must 

have a SPCC plan. SPCC regulations require that any 

equipment or containers with the capacity to store 55 

gallons (208 liters) or more of oil be included in the plan.

The purpose of the SPCC plan is to prevent the discharge of oil and hazardous substances, and minimize 

the impact of such spills to adjacent waterways. 

All program activities were in compliance 

with requirements.

No reportable spills occurred. Eleven minor 

spills of diesel, lubricant, coolant, and hydraulic fluids occurred at the STM site, and 

three spills occurred at the NWTC. The size 

of spills ranged from less than 0.1 gallon to 

12 gallons (0.38 to 48 liters). All spills, except 

for one, were the result of leaks from private 

and delivery vehicles and contractor and 

construction equipment. A total of 25 gallons 

(95 liters) of petroleum fluids were spilled 

during fourteen events, most of which occurred on paved surfaces. Each spill received 

immediate remedial action and there was no 

significant impact to the environment.

The SPCC Plan for the NWTC was revised to 

include a new 280-gallon (1,060-liter) diesel 

fuel tank.

The SPCC Plan for the STM site was revised 

to include three new oil-containing transformers located at the Energy Systems 

Integration Facility.

The SPCC training required annually of all 

workers who manage fuel storage tanks 

was revised to include a knowledge test to 

confirm their understanding of state and 

NREL requirements.

An internal assessment of the laboratory’s 

spill-control preparedness program identified one minor deficiency. One opportunity for improvement was also identified 

concerning the availability of SPCC plans and 

clarification of NREL environmental staff notification information used by NREL Security 

in the event of a petroleum spill. Both items 

were subsequently addressed.

EPA:

Oil Pollution 

Prevention 

40 CFR 112

CWA 

Section 319

CDLE:

DOPS 

Storage 

Tank 

Regulations,

7 CCR 1101-

14

CWCC:

25-8-205 

CRS.

Radiological

Materials

and Waste

Management

Air emissions are regulated by Section 112 of the Clean 

Air Act and implemented by the EPA. 40 CFR Part 61 

established National Emission Standards for Hazardous 

Air Pollutants and, more specifically, Subpart H sets such 

standards for radiological materials.

DOE Order 458.1, Radiation Protection of the Public and 

the Environment, establishes radiation emission limits 

for DOE facilities. These facilities, including NREL, must 

annually demonstrate compliance with EPA radiological 

air standards that limit emissions to amounts that would 

prevent any member of the public from receiving an 

effective dose equivalent of 10 mrem per year or greater.

All program activities were in compliance 

with requirements. 

No planned or unplanned radiological 

releases occurred.

Only small quantities (less than 1 cubic yard 

[0.76 cubic meter]) of low-level (0.007 curies) 

radioactive waste are currently in storage 

awaiting off-site disposal.

In accordance with a federal regulation 

and DOE Order, NREL submitted its annual 

Radionuclide Air Emissions Annual Report 

to the EPA confirming that the laboratory is 

in compliance with air emissions standards. 

For calendar year 2016, the effective dose 

equivalent of radiation to the public was 

0.038 millirem (mrem) per year, far below the 

10 mrem per year limit.

EPA:

40 CFR 61, 

Subpart H

DOE:

DOE Order 

458.1
40 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

Table 3 continued on page 41

TABLE 3. FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS AND REGULATION

AND COMPLIANCE STATUS APPLICABLE TO NREL

Report 

Sections Regulatory Program Description Compliance Status and Highlights Regulator &Requirement

National 

Environmental 

Policy Act

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requires 

that federal agencies determine environmental impacts 

of proposed federal actions and alternatives. 

NEPA regulations are established by the Council on 

Environmental Quality and are further implemented 

through DOE regulations and orders. 

Under NEPA, DOE considers and documents 

environmental factors used in deciding what level of 

analysis is required for a proposed action. These include 

categorical exclusions, environmental assessments and 

environmental impact statements.

All program activities were in 

compliance with requirements.

A total of 383 NEPA Worksheets and 

18 Environmental Checklists were 

completed in 2016 for project activities 

on- and off-site.

A NEPA program assessment conducted 

in 2014 by the DOE Golden Field Office 

identified findings related to document 

control, training, and adherence to 

internal NEPA processes. To address 

the findings, the following program 

improvements were completed in 2016:

■ The NEPA program was evaluated to 

identify projects that do not require 

additional review as their impacts 

have been thoroughly analyzed in 

the STM site and NWTC Environmental Assessments. 

■ The NEPA worksheet was redesigned to contain all environmental 

review criteria on one page. A pilot 

program was developed to test the 

effectiveness of the new NEPA worksheet prior to full implementation of 

the revised program.

■ Training related to the new NEPA 

process was provided to affected 

staff.

■ The NREL NEPA procedure and 

handbook were updated and made 

available to all NREL employees via 

the NREL intranet.

■ Quarterly NEPA monitoring was 

conducted to determine if the 

updated process was effective or if 

adjustments need to be made.

Council on

Environmental

Quality:

40 CFR

1500-1508

DOE:

10 CFR 1021
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 41

Table 3 continued on page 42

TABLE 3. FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS AND REGULATION

AND COMPLIANCE STATUS APPLICABLE TO NREL

Report 

Sections Regulatory Program Description Compliance Status and Highlights Regulator &Requirement

Wildlife 

Management 

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) of 1918, as 

implemented by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 

and the Damage or Destruction of Dens or NestsHarassment of Wildlife statute as administered by the 

Colorado Division of Parks and Wildlife, manage the 

protection of migratory birds. 

The MBTA and its amendments implement several 

treaties between the U.S., Great Britain, Mexico, Japan, 

and the former Soviet Union. The MBTA prohibits 

the taking, killing, or possession of migratory birds, 

nests, and eggs. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has 

developed a system of permits for activities that involve 

the “take” of migratory birds, including those governing 

scientific collection and bird banding, and lethal and 

non-lethal measures taken to prevent depredation of 

agricultural crops and to protect public health

and safety.

Within the state of Colorado, no wildlife dens or nests, 

young, or eggs may be damaged or destroyed unless 

permitted by the Colorado Division of Parks and Wildlife. 

It is unlawful for any person to willfully harass wildlife, 

including birds.

Under the “Memorandum of Understanding between 

DOE and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Regarding 

Implementation of EO 13186, Responsibilities of Federal 

Agencies to Protect Migratory Birds,” DOE agrees 

to integrate migratory bird conservation principles, 

measures, and practices into agency activities and 

avoid or minimize adverse impacts on migratory bird 

resources and their habitats.

Under the Presidential Memorandum, “Creating a 

Federal Strategy to Promote the Health of Honey Bees 

and Other Pollinators,” a Pollinator Health Task Force was 

created to develop a National Pollinator Health Strategy 

to enhance pollinator habitat on federally managed 

lands and facilities, and incorporate pollinator health

as a component of all future restoration and

reclamation projects. 

All program activities were in 

compliance with requirements.

Ground-nesting bird surveys were 

conducted prior to annual mowing 

operations at the NWTC in conformance 

with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. A 

vesper sparrow (Pooecetes gramineus) 

nest was found and cordoned off; 

mowing was delayed in that area until it 

was clear that the eggs had hatched

and the young had permanently left 

the nest.

The site of a potential solar array at the 

NWTC was mowed in the late fall to 

accommodate spring 2017 installation. 

Fall mowing results in lower grass height 

in the following spring, decreasing the 

attractiveness of potential groundnesting bird sites, and consequently 

avoiding conflicts with the research 

mission and native wildlife. 

U.S. Fish and 

Wildlife Service:

MBTA 16 U.S.C. 

703-712

Colorado 

Division of Parks 

and Wildlife: CRS 

33-6-128

Memorandum 

of Understanding between 

DOE and the 

U.S. Fish and 

Wildlife Service 

Executive Order:

EO 13186

Presidential 

Memorandum 

– Creating a 

Federal Strategy 

to Promote the 

Health of Honey 

Bees and Other 

Pollinators
42 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

Table 3 continued on page 43

TABLE 3. FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS AND REGULATION

AND COMPLIANCE STATUS APPLICABLE TO NREL

Report 

Sections Regulatory Program Description Compliance Status and Highlights Regulator &Requirement

Endangered 

Species and 

Species of 

Concern

The Endangered Species Act (ESA), jointly administered 

by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National 

Marine Fisheries Service, protects threatened and 

endangered wildlife and plant species and associated 

critical habitat. 

Federal agencies are required to abide by the 

Endangered Species Act and ensure that their actions 

do not adversely affect species that are federally listed 

under the Endangered Species Act as threatened, 

endangered, or candidate species.

Additional federal and state laws and regulations 

protect wildlife, such as the Bald and Golden Eagle 

Protection Act. 

The Colorado Division of Parks and Wildlife identifies 

a list of endangered, threatened, and wildlife species 

of concern for Colorado. Furthermore, the Colorado 

Natural Heritage Program has a list of rare species that 

is not regulatory in nature but is unique in that it is the 

only designation besides the Endangered Species Act 

that considers rare plants. 

All program activities were in compliance 

with requirements.

U.S. Fish and 

Wildlife Service:

50 CFR 17

Colorado 

Division of 

Parks and 

Wildlife:

2 CCR 406-10, 

Article 2 and 3 

Vegetation 

Management

The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide 

Act, as implemented by the EPA, regulates the use, 

storage, and disposal of herbicides and pesticides. For 

application of certain types of herbicides designated as 

“restricted use” by the EPA, a certified applicator must

be used. 

In Colorado, the Department of Agriculture Commissioner develops and implements state noxious weed 

management plans for three categories of weed 

species. Class A plants are targeted for eradication. 

Class B species are subject to management plans 

designed to stop their continued spread. Class C 

species are subject to plans designed to support the 

efforts of local governing bodies to facilitate more 

effective integrated weed management on private 

and public lands.

EO 13112, Invasive Species, requires the control of 

invasive species at federal facilities.

All program activities were in compliance 

with requirements. 

At the NWTC, herbicides were applied to 

approximately 122 acres (49 hectares) in 

April and 50 acres (20 hectares) in September to control B- and C-listed weeds. 

At the STM site, herbicides were applied 

to control A-, B- and C-listed weeds to 

approximately 20 acres (8 hectares) in 

May, 14 acres (6 hectares) in June 

and July, and 39 acres (16 hectares) 

in October.

The presence of two species of 

knapweed weevils previously released 

along the Pine Ridge at the NWTC was 

confirmed. One species attacks the 

seed heads while the second attacks 

the roots of the knapweed plant. This 

effort further diversifies noxious weed 

control methods utilized by NREL. The 

effectiveness of this approach may take 

two or more years to determine.

Herbicides were applied in October to 

a large tract (37 acres/15hectares) of 

grassland on the STM site conservation 

easement to control knapweed. 

Executive 

Order:

EO 13112

EPA:

40 CFR

162-171(f)

CRS 35-5.5

Department of 

Agriculture:

Federal 

Noxious Weed 

Act of 1974 

(Public Law

93-629, 88 

Statute 2148)

Plant 

Protection Act 

(Public Law 

106-224)

Federal 

Insecticide, 

Fungicide, and 

Rodenticide 

Act 7 USC 136 

et seq
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 43

TABLE 3. FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS AND REGULATION

AND COMPLIANCE STATUS APPLICABLE TO NREL

Report 

Sections Regulatory Program Description Compliance Status and Highlights Regulator &Requirement

Wetlands and 

Floodplains

Wetlands became regulated under the 1972 

amendments to the Clean Water Act. Wetlands that 

meet certain soil, vegetation, and hydrologic criteria 

are protected under Section 404 of the CWA, which 

is administered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 

(USACE) and the EPA.

Under EO 11990, Wetlands Protection, federal agencies 

must provide leadership and take action to minimize 

the destruction, loss, or degradation of wetlands, and to 

preserve and enhance the natural and beneficial values 

of wetlands. 

EO 11988, Floodplain Management, requires federal 

agencies to provide leadership and take action to 

reduce the risk of flood loss; minimize the impact of 

floods on human safety, health, and welfare; and restore 

and preserve the natural and beneficial values served 

by floodplains.

Counties protect floodplains by mapping the 100-

year floodplain boundaries within their jurisdiction in 

coordination with the Federal Emergency Management 

Agency. They then formulate regulations to control 

the type and amount of development within the 

designated boundary.

Jefferson County requires approval of development 

proposed in floodplains within its jurisdiction.

All program activities were in 

compliance with requirements.

No NREL projects or activities that could 

impact wetlands or floodplains occurred.

The STM site and the NWTC do not 

contain any regulatory floodplains. 

USACE:

CWA Section 

404

Executive 

Orders:

EO 11988

EO 11990

DOE:

10 CFR 1022

Cultural 

Resources

Cultural resources are protected under Sections 106 

and 110 of the National Historic Preservation Act, which 

is administered in Colorado by the Colorado Office 

of Archaeology & Historic Preservation (State Historic 

Preservation Officer).

Federal agencies must establish preservation 

programs—commensurate with their mission and 

the effects of their activities on historic properties—

that provide for the careful consideration of historic 

properties. Significant cultural resources are either 

eligible for, or listed in, the National Register of Historic 

Places. Cultural resources are defined as any prehistoric 

or historic district, site, building, structure, or object 

considered important to a culture, subculture, or 

community for scientific, traditional, religious, or 

other reason. 

All program activities were in 

compliance with requirements.

Advisory 

Council 

on Historic 

Preservation:

36 CFR 60

36 CFR 63

36 CFR 79

36 CFR 800

16 U.S.C. 470

SHPO:

8 CCR 1504-7
44 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

Good air quality is fundamental to the overall well-being 

of individuals and the environment. Each person inhales 

approximately 3,700 gallons (14,000 liters) of air per day, 

and contaminants that may be present can affect the 

health of individuals. In the environment, air pollutants 

can settle on land or wash into waterways and can affect 

the vegetation, aquatic life, and wildlife that depend 

upon those resources. 

NREL strives to protect air quality by minimizing air 

emissions from employee commuting and research and 

operations activities, monitoring air emissions from the 

larger on-site sources, and meeting federal and state 

air emissions and permitting requirements. Emitted air 

pollutants include criteria pollutants (carbon monoxide, 

nitrogen oxides, volatile organic carbon, particulate 

matter, and sulfur dioxide) and non-criteria pollutants 

(hazardous air pollutants, greenhouse gas compounds, 

and ozone-depleting substances). Minimizing air emissions generated by the laboratory creates direct health 

benefits for neighbors immediately adjacent to the laboratory and for those in the Denver metropolitan area. 

ESH&Q staff members participate in project planning, 

safety evaluations, start-up, and operations activities to 

address air quality considerations. 

The primary sources of regulated pollutants at NREL 

are a result of burning fuel, laboratory chemical use, 

and facility operations. Sources include process heat 

boilers, process cooling systems, comfort heating and 

cooling systems, standby generators, construction and 

maintenance equipment with gasoline or diesel engines, 

bench- and pilot-scale research activities using chemicals, and facility operations maintenance activities. 

A summary of NREL facility estimated annual air pollutant emissions is included in Table 4.

Additional information regarding management of NREL’s 

air quality protection program can be found in section 6 

5 AIR QUALITY PROTECTION

Air inlets and exhaust stacks for six natural-gas-fired, lowNOx-emitting hot water boilers which provide comfort 

heating to the Field Test Laboratory Building. Photo by 

Dennis Schroeder, NREL 45415
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 45

of the NREL 2015 Environmental Performance Report at: 

www.nrel.gov/docs/fy16osti/65807.pdf.

2016 Compliance Summary and Activities

■ Program activities were in compliance with 

requirements. 

■ An evaluation of hazardous air pollutant emissions 

indicated that emissions were well below reporting 

and permitting thresholds at all NREL sites.

■ On behalf of the state, Jefferson County Public Health 

conducted a compliance inspection of permitted 

sources at the NWTC. The four NWTC standby generators and the Composites Manufacturing Education and 

Technology Facility were inspected. No concerns or 

deficiencies were identified.

■ The annual evaluation of compliance with federal and 

state facility-wide permitting and emissions control 

requirements was completed. All facilities and individually permitted equipment items remain classified 

as minor sources.

■ The required annual street sanding report was provided to the state and Jefferson County confirming that 

no sand was used at the STM site or NWTC.

■ The laboratory evaluated carbon dioxide equivalent 

and greenhouse gas emissions and concluded they 

were below the threshold for federal reporting and 

permitting rules.

■ All equipment registrations, including annual registration renewals, for state-required ozone-depleting 

substances were completed for the STM site and 

NWTC. Per federal requirements, refrigerant recovery 

equipment has also been registered with the EPA.

■ Four air permits for three standby generators at the 

STM site were renewed.

■ An air permit covering an ammonia scrubber and 

particulate baghouse at the STM site was renewed.

■ An Air Pollution Emissions Notice was submitted to the 

state for new research activity at the NWTC Composites 

Manufacturing Education and Technology Facility.

■ Final compliance testing documentation was submitted to the state confirming that the Renewable Fuels 

Heating Plant emissions control equipment is operating in compliance with the air permit following 

firebox modifications.

2016 Accomplishments and Highlights 

■ The laboratory air emissions inventory was 

updated, using equipment-specific emissions 

factors where available. This resulted in a more 

accurate emissions inventory.

■ To reduce both criteria pollutant emissions 

and greenhouse gas emissions generated 

by the laboratory, an active transportationdemand-management program was 

developed and continues to reduce on-site 

vehicle travel and idling emissions of both 

private and government fleet vehicles. 

TABLE 4. STM SITE, NWTC, AND DENVER WEST OFFICE PARK ESTIMATED 

ANNUAL AIR POLLUTANT EMISSIONS (IN U.S. TONS [METRIC TONS] PER YEAR)*

CRITERIA POLLUTANTS GREENHOUSE GASES HAPs

Year CO NOx VOC PM10 SO2 CO2 CH4 N2O Total

2011 5.82 (5.28) 8.03 (7.28) 0.44 (0.39) 0.97 (0.88) 0.15 (0.13) 8,310 (7,539) 0.24 (0.21) 0.17 (0.15) 0.19 (0.17)

2012 6.35 (5.76) 16.28 (14.77) 1.09 (0.98) 2.37 (2.15) 0.22 (0.19) 7,175 (6,509) 0.41 (0.37) 0.17 (0.15) 0.31 (0.28)

2013 6.02 (5.46) 13.83 (12.55) 0.47 (0.42) 3.16 (2.86) 0.360 (0.326) 8,584 (7,787) 0.51 (0.46) 0.25 (0.22) 0.51 (0.46)

2014 5.82 (5.28) 14.06 (12.76) 0.99 (0.89) 1.39 (1.26) 0.10 (0.09) 6,263 (5,682) 0.30 (0.27) 0.11 (0.09) 0.16 (0.15)

2015 6.42 (5.82) 15.49 (14.05) 0.54 (0.48) 3.95 (3.58) 0.45 (0.40) 9,329 (8.463) 0.56 (0.50) 0.30 (0.27) 0.63 (0.57)

*Abbreviations: HAPs – Hazardous Air Pollutants, CO – carbon monoxide, NOx – nitrogen oxides, VOC – volatile organic carbon, 

PM10 – respirable particulate matter less than 10 microns in aerodynamic diameter, SO2 – sulfur dioxide, CO2 – carbon dioxide, 

CH4 – methane, N2O – nitrous oxide.
46 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

Water quality is critical to human health and the health of 

our natural ecosystems. Water quality protection at NREL 

falls within four main areas:

■ Drinking water

■ Groundwater

■ Surface water

■ Wastewater

Additional information regarding program management 

for each of these four areas can be found in section 7 of 

the NREL 2015 Environmental Performance Report at: 

www.nrel.gov/docs/fy16osti/65807.pdf.

6.1 DRINKING WATER

The STM site and NWTC are provided potable drinking 

water by two different means. The 2,200 staff members 

at the STM site are serviced by a municipal public water 

supplier, Consolidated Mutual Water Company. Because 

the NWTC is not located within the bounds of a municipal 

public water supply distribution system, treated water 

is purchased from the City of Boulder and transported 

by truck to the site for the 150 employees located there. 

Upon delivery to the NWTC, the trucked water is transferred to a large holding tank with a capacity of 15,000 

gallons (56,781 liters). Water is pumped from the holding 

tank to a 2,000 gallon (7,580 liters) day tank, where chlorine is added to boost disinfectant levels prior to distribution to site buildings. The state of Colorado permits the 

system. Figures 3 and 4 show the results of chlorine

and disinfection byproducts monitoring at the NWTC 

during 2016.

6 WATER QUALITYPROTECTION

Stormwater conveyance at the STM site. Photo by

Dennis Schroeder, NREL 45420
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 47

2016 Compliance Summary and Activities

■ Program activities were in compliance with 

requirements.

■ All monitored parameters met applicable 

requirements.

■ An inventory of lead- and copper-containing 

materials within the NWTC drinking water distribution 

system infrastructure was prepared and provided 

to the Colorado Department of Public Health and 

Environment, Water Quality Control Commission. 

Recommendations were also provided to the state for 

revised lead and copper sampling locations that more 

accurately reflect higher tap use and the risk of the 

metals’ occurrence. 

■ The drinking water supply at the NWTC was disrupted 

over the July 4 holiday weekend, which depleted the 

water storage in the system storage tanks. The NWTC 

Operator in Responsible Charge worked with NREL 

staff to identify the cause of the disruption. Controls 

were subsequently modified to ensure that system 

shutoff would occur immediately if, in the future, a 

fixture/tap is stuck in the “on” position.

■ A total of 490,656 gallons (1,857,335 liters) of drinking 

water were provided to NWTC users.

Average Monthly Chlorine Residual, 2016

4.50

4.00

3.50

3.00

2.50

2.00

1.50

1.00

0.50

0.00

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Chlorine Residual

mg/L

Month

Maximum Allowed = 4mg/L

Minimum Allowed = 0.2mg/L

Average Monthly Chlorine Residual

Figure 4. Comparison of disinfection byproducts monitoring at the NWTC, 2012–2016

Figure 3. Results of 2016 average monthly chlorine residual monitoring at the NWTC

2013 2014 2015 2016

Disinfectant Byproducts

80

70

60

50

40

30

20

10

0

Amount Present,

ppb

TTHM MCL*

HAA5 MCL* 

*MCL – Maximum Contaminant Level 

2012
48 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

6.2 GROUNDWATER

The Denver Basin aquifer system underlies an area of 

approximately 7,000 square miles (2,833 hectares) that 

extends from Greeley south to near Colorado Springs 

and from the Front Range east to near Limon. The aquifer 

provides groundwater supplies to urban, rural, and agricultural users. The aquifers within the Denver Basin aquifer system, which include the Dawson, Denver, Arapahoe, 

and Laramie-Fox Hills aquifers, form a layered sequence 

of rock in an elongated, bowl-shaped structural depression. Both the STM site and the NWTC are located at the 

western edge of the Denver Basin aquifer system.

The STM site overlies the shallowest portions of the 

Denver, Arapahoe, and Laramie-Fox Hills aquifers. The 

NWTC overlies the shallowest portions of the Arapahoe 

and Laramie-Fox Hills aquifers. The Dawson formation is 

the shallowest of the Denver Basin aquifers and is the one 

most relied on by the groundwater users in the basin. The 

northern extent of the Dawson aquifer is located approximately 20 miles (33 km) to the south and east of the STM 

site; consequently, wells drilled at either the STM site or 

the NWTC would not intersect the Dawson aquifer, nor

would a source of contamination affect the groundwater 

quality in this aquifer.

Despite the low likelihood of reaching the Dawson 

aquifer, NREL’s groundwater management program is 

focused on the control of potential pollutant sources that 

could affect this important resource. This includes careful 

evaluation of all outdoor projects to eliminate, substitute, 

or control potential sources of pollution.

There are currently three permitted monitoring wells at 

the STM site and no monitoring wells at the NWTC. There 

are two permitted closed-loop geothermal systems in 

operation at the STM site; one is located at the Solar Radiation Research Laboratory and the second is located near 

the South Site Entrance Building. Both of the geothermal 

well systems were installed as part of research activities.

2016 Compliance Activities

■ Program activities were in compliance with 

requirements. 

■ State groundwater permits obtained in 2015 from 

the Colorado Division of Natural Resources for three 

monitoring wells installed at the STM site on the north 

side of the Field Testing Laboratory Building were 

converted from temporary to permanent permits. This 

will allow continued monitoring of the wells to determine if groundwater or surface water is the source of 

water that was observed within the FTLB. 

Tributaries to Rock Creek drain the northeast portion of the NWTC. 

Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 44789

2016 Accomplishments and Highlights

■ There were no spills or releases that 

impacted groundwater.

2016 Accomplishments and Highlights

■ Recordkeeping documentation for the NWTC 

drinking water system, including procedures 

and forms, was updated to incorporate new 

regulatory requirements and implement 

recommended improvements identified 

in a 2015 internal assessment. Additional 

system information about the municipally 

provided and delivered drinking water at the 

STM site was also incorporated in program 

documentation.

■ NREL collaborated with the City of Boulder, 

the NWTC’s water supplier, on the design of 

a monitoring program intended to track the 

change in disinfectant byproduct concentrations from source water to point of use. The 

results of the effort will contribute to the 

goals of providing excellent water quality 

and meeting all regulatory requirements. 

The first samples were collected in December 

2016.
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 49

6.3 SURFACE WATER

Through its surface water program, NREL seeks to protect 

the quality of nearby receiving waters into which the STM 

site and the NWTC drain. These receiving waters include 

Lena Gulch at the STM site and Coal Creek and Rock Creek 

at the NWTC. Sediment, debris, and chemicals transported 

to these water bodies via stormwater runoff can harm 

or kill fish and other wildlife either directly or by destroying aquatic and riparian habitat. High volumes of sediment can result in stream bank erosion and clogging 

of waterways.

Water quality protection is accomplished through compliance with federal and state stormwater permitting 

requirements, management of stormwater runoff flowing across active construction sites, inclusion of project 

design elements that promote infiltration and detention 

of stormwater, and management of NREL grounds to 

minimize erosion and support infiltration.

2016 Compliance Summary and Activities

■ Program activities were in compliance with requirements.

■ Permit coverage under the EPA Construction General 

Permit for one construction project was terminated 

after achieving the required restoration criteria. Permit 

coverage continues for one STM site construction 

project. 

■ Periodic stormwater inspections were performed 

at locations where earth-disturbing activities have 

occurred. The inspections and any resulting maintenance of structural stormwater erosion and sediment 

controls took place on construction sites operating 

under the EPA Construction General Permit and at 

smaller areas where permit coverage was not required 

but where stormwater best management practices are 

followed. 

■ Design was completed for stormwater conveyance 

improvements at the NWTC, which will improve 

management of frequent low-flow events and 

address storage and water quality requirements 

associated with the federal Energy Independence and 

Security Act.

6.4 WASTEWATER

Untreated or poorly treated wastewater has the potential 

to contaminate surface and groundwater used for drinking 

water, irrigation, industrial, commercial, and recreational 

purposes. The majority of wastewater from the STM site and 

Denver West Office Park facilities flows into the Pleasant 

View Water and Sanitation District’s (Pleasant View) system, 

and ultimately to the Metropolitan Wastewater Reclamation 

District’s (Metro District) central treatment plant. Wastewater from the Joyce Street Facility and the Renewable Fuels 

and Lubricants Research Laboratory also flows to the Metro 

District’s treatment plant.

NREL’s primary non-domestic wastewater discharge is 

generated at the STM site’s Integrated Biorefinery Research 

Erosion control measures protect native seed sown into an area 

disturbed during a culvert repair project at the STM site. Photo by 

Dennis Schroeder, NREL 45409

2016 Accomplishments and Highlights

■ Successful revegetation was achieved in 

areas disturbed by an electrical infrastructure construction project at the STM site. 

Successful revegetation occurs, as defined 

by the EPA, when vegetative cover equals 

70% of pre-disturbance cover. Carefully 

selected seed mixes and mulches, together with weed management and temporary 

irrigation, were instrumental in achieving 

a native grass cover sufficient to meet the 

EPA criteria.

■ NREL and DOE Golden Field Office staff 

began participation in the newly formed 

Water Advisory Group organized by DOE 

Headquarters to enhance management of 

water resources at DOE national laboratories through collaboration during quarterly online meetings.
50 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

Facility where research related to the production of 

bio-based products and fuels is conducted. Acids and bases 

are used in pilot-scale processes for converting cellulosic 

biomass into a variety of fuels and chemicals. The pH of 

the effluent from this process is adjusted to fall within an 

allowable pH range prior to discharge into the sanitary 

sewer system. The Metro District and Pleasant View system 

managers periodically tour the facility and review the 

operational controls.

For those facilities that lack sanitary service, there are three 

small septic systems in place, each consisting of a tank 

and a leach field. One is located at the STM mesa top Solar 

Radiation Research Laboratory and two are at the NWTC. 

A preventative maintenance and inspection program is in 

place to confirm proper system function.

2016 Compliance Summary and Activities

■ Program activities were in compliance with 

requirements.

One of several components associated with the water treatment 

system that delivers ultra-pure water to the wafer processing tool in 

the new cleanroom within the Science and Technology Facility. The 

discharged water from the system is used as make-up water in the 

cooling towers of two STM site buildings, thus drastically reducing 

the volume of water wasted to the sanitary sewer. Photo by 

Dennis Schroeder, NREL 45977

2016 Accomplishments and Highlights 

■ NREL ESH&Q Environment staff supported 

a project to replace propylene glycol with 

ethylene glycol, the latter being a coolant capable of recovering approximately 

14% more heat, in the HVAC systems at 

two buildings on the STM site. Samples 

were collected and subsequently analyzed 

at a specialized analytical laboratory to 

determine if constituents were present 

that would prevent directing the propylene glycol to the sanitary sewer. Chemical analyses indicated that the propylene 

glycol from one of the buildings contained 

molybdenum above the concentration 

allowed by the Metro District; therefore, 

approximately 2,000 gallons of propylene 

glycol from this building must be disposed 

of as a non-RCRA hazardous waste. An 

equal volume of propylene glycol was 

found to be compliant with the Metro 

District’s regulations, allowing disposal to 

the sanitary sewer. This project is expected 

to be completed in 2017.

■ A larger deionizing water system unit 

was installed to support a new solar cell 

thin-film research tool in the Solar Energy 

Research Facility. The unused portion of 

water passing through the system, which 

is equivalent to softened drinking water 

quality, will be used as make-up water 

for the cooling towers in both the Solar 

Energy Research Facility and the Science 

and Technology Facility at the STM site.
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 51

Responsible acquisition, use, and disposal of materials 

and waste are critical to meeting regulatory compliance, preventing pollution, and caring for the environment. NREL seeks to purchase materials that are sourced 

responsibly, contain recycled content, and have low 

toxicity in order to reduce the environmental impact 

of its waste streams. Hazardous materials used on site 

are thoughtfully controlled with internal procedures 

designed to limit health and environmental risks. Waste 

is carefully managed and disposed of through fully 

permitted facilities. Areas of focus include:

■ Hazardous materials management

■ Regulated waste management

■ Aboveground storage tank management

■ Spill prevention and response 

■ Radiological materials and waste management.

Additional information regarding program management 

for each of these five areas of focus can be found in the 

NREL 2015 Environmental Performance Report (www.

nrel.gov/docs/fy16osti/65807.pdf), section 8.

7.1 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 

MANAGEMENT

A variety of chemicals and materials, some of which are 

hazardous, are used in research and maintenance activities at NREL facilities. Hazardous materials are stored, used, 

and managed in a manner that is protective of laboratory 

personnel, the general public, and the environment. 

2016 Compliance Summary

■ Program activities were in compliance with 

requirements.

■ There were no releases of hazardous materials 

that required reporting. In accordance with DOE 

requirements, NREL screened selected chemicals to 

7

 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 

 AND WASTE MANAGEMENT

Samples being agitated in the Algal Research Lab in 

the Field Test Laboratory Building. Laboratory research 

may involve the use and processing of materials that 

are hazardous and require special handling and disposal 

measures. Photo by Werner Slocum, NREL 39512
52 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

confirm that inventories are below threshold planning 

quantities.

■ EPCRA Tier II hazardous materials reports were submitted for three facilities for reporting year 2015. The 

reports help state and local emergency response and 

planning agencies and local fire departments plan for 

chemical emergencies. Chemicals reported include 

diesel fuel, petroleum oil, and sulfuric acid contained in 

sealed lead-acid batteries. A summary of NREL’s EPCRA 

reporting requirements are found in Table 5. 

■ West Metro Fire Rescue conducted an annual hazardous material inspection and issued permits for seven 

facilities.

■ The Denver Fire Department issued a hazardous materials permit for the Renewable Fuels and Lubricants 

Research Laboratory.

7.2 HAZARDOUS WASTE 

MANAGEMENT

Research and development activities and general facility operations create a variety of waste streams, some of 

which contain toxic chemicals or metals. NREL typically 

disposes of or recycles the following categories of waste:

■ Hazardous waste (as defined by environmental 

regulations)

■ Non-hazardous waste such as diesel fuel and spent 

biomass processing materials (does not include 

municipal solid waste such as regular office trash)

■ Universal waste such as mercury-containing light 

bulbs, lead-acid batteries, aerosol cans, and electronic 

waste such as computers, monitors, and research 

instrumentation containing electronic circuitry.

Table 6 provides a summary of quantities and types of 

waste generated for the past five years.

2016 Compliance Summary and Activities

■ Program activities were in compliance with 

requirements.

■ Fourteen hazardous and 13 universal waste shipments 

for offsite disposal were made across NREL’s five sites.

TABLE 5. 2016 EPCRA REPORTING

EPCRA 

Section Description of Reporting Status

302 Planning Notification Not requireda

304 Extremely Hazardous Substance 

Release Notification Not requireda

311-312 Safety Data Sheet/

Chemical Inventory Reported 

313 Toxics Release 

Inventory Reporting Not requireda

a “Not required” indicates that NREL was not required to report 

because it did not meet the threshold or did not have an 

extremely hazardous substance release. 

2016 Accomplishments and Highlights

■ Laboratory safety training was revised to 

reinforce workers’ understanding of National 

Fire Protection Association standards and 

expand their awareness of chemical and 

hazardous materials safety.

■ A chemical cleanout was performed in 

numerous laboratories.

TABLE 6. COMPARISON OF FOUR WASTE 

CATEGORIES GENERATED AT NREL 

FACILITIES (IN LBS. [KGS] NET WEIGHT)

Hazardous 

Waste

Non-Hazardous 

Waste

Universal 

Waste 

Electronics

Other 

Universal 

Waste

2012 33,386 

(15,144)

8,805

(3,994)

41,355 

(18,758)

4,803

(2,179)

2013 14,974

(6,792)

4,477

(2,031)

38,096 

(17,280)

19,063

(8,647)

2014 14,683

(6,659)

15,198

(6893)

28,551

(12,949)

6,738

(3,056)

2015 17,040

(7,729)

47,407

21,503

31,964

(14,499)

15,600

(7,076)

2016 14,234

(6,456)

17,340

(7,865)

14,028

 (6,376)

8,686

(3,948)
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 53

■ Mandatory training on employee hazardous and universal waste management was completed in compliance 

with state and federal regulations.

■ All regulatory notifications were submitted and applicable waste generator fees were paid.

7.3 ABOVEGROUND STORAGE TANK 

MANAGEMENT

Proper tank management prevents or minimizes the size of 

spills and leaks of fuels or oils, avoiding contamination of 

soils, surface water, groundwater, and drinking water, and 

supports the laboratory’s commitments to environmental 

stewardship and pollution prevention.

The aboveground storage tank (AST) management program 

applies to petroleum fuel tanks and is intended to:

■ Minimize releases from tanks

■ Confirm that safety features are present and functional

■ Ensure compliance with tank design, operation, 

training, and inspection requirements.

The risk of underground soil and water contamination 

from storage tanks is minimized by using only 

aboveground tanks. Unlike underground tanks, aboveground installations provide access for regular visual leak 

inspections and allow for less costly repair and cleanup.

NREL operates several petroleum-based ASTs, five of 

which are located at the NWTC with a total capacity of 

1,289 gallons (4,879 liters); one is located at the NRELoccupied laboratory at the Denver West Office Park 

with a capacity of 500 gallons (1,893 liters); and 20 are 

located at the STM site with a total capacity of 13,164 

gallons (49,831 liters). All ASTs are maintained using 

best management practices and according to applicable 

regulations. Five ASTs at the STM site are registered with 

the state. There are no ASTs that require registration at 

the NWTC, Renewable Fuels and Lubricants Laboratory, 

or Joyce Street Facility.

2016 Compliance Summary and Activities

■ Program activities were in compliance with 

requirements.

■ A state inspection of the five registered ASTs at the 

STM site was conducted. The state noted that NREL 

has and continues to demonstrate high levels of 

compliance. 

■ Signage on all diesel tanks was reviewed and updated 

to comply with new changes in National Fire Protection Association standards.

■ All tanks were inspected for paint, leak detection, and 

piping to identify maintenance needs. Maintenance is 

planned for spring 2017.

2016 Accomplishments and Highlights 

■ As a best management practice, all NREL 

facilities are managed to the stringent 

Large Quantity Generator hazardous waste 

regulations, which specify the requirements 

for personnel training, contingency 

planning, and container labeling and 

management.

■ Waste management storage and collection 

areas were established in the NWTC’s 

Composite Materials Education and 

Technology Facility in advance of start-up of 

operations. 

■ A DOE Golden Field Office field assessment 

was conducted of the laboratory’s 

hazardous waste management program. 

No findings or concerns, six opportunities 

for improvement, and two noteworthy 

practices were identified. Opportunities 

for improvement will be implemented 

throughout the course of calendar 

year 2017.

An example of a “satellite” waste collection station found in NREL 

research facilities. Photo by Eric Schmitz, NREL 45584
54 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

■

7.4 SPILL PREVENTION AND 

RESPONSE

Spills of chemicals, fuels, and oils can result in contamination to soil, surface water, and groundwater, potentially 

causing damage to ecosystems, wildlife habitat, and human 

health. Comprehensive planning using Spill Prevention, 

Control, and Countermeasures plans (SPCCs), can reduce 

spills and limit impacts to the environment when spills 

do occur.

SPCC plans have been developed and are in place for 

the NWTC, the STM site, and the Renewable Fuels and 

Lubricants Research Laboratory. As the total amount of oil 

stored at NREL’s Joyce Street and Denver West Office Park 

facilities is less than 1,320 gallons (4,997 liters), SPCC plans 

are not required at those locations.

2016 Compliance Summary and Activities

■ Program activities were in compliance with 

requirements.

■ No reportable spills occurred. Eleven minor spills of 

diesel, lubricant, coolant, and hydraulic fluids occurred 

at the STM site, and three spills occurred at the NWTC. 

The size of spills ranged from less than 0.1 gallon to 12 

gallons (0.38 to 48 liters). All spills, except for one, were 

the result of leaks from private and delivery vehicles 

and contractor and construction equipment. A total of 

25 gallons (95 liters) of petroleum fluids were spilled 

during fourteen events, most of which occurred on 

paved surfaces. Each spill received immediate remedial action and there was no significant impact to the 

environment.

■ The SPCC Plan for the NWTC was revised to include a 

new 280-gallon (1,060-liter) diesel fuel tank.

■ The SPCC Plan for the STM site was revised to include 

three new oil-containing transformers located at the 

Energy Systems Integration Facility.

■ The SPCC training required annually of all workers who 

manage fuel storage tanks was revised to include a 

2016 Accomplishments and Highlights 

■ All tanks were inspected to confirm 

continued adherence to recently revised 

state of Colorado regulations.

■ A new 280-gallon (1,060-liter) diesel fuel 

tank was placed at the NWTC to eliminate 

offsite fueling trips. Because the tank 

complies with National Fire Protection 

Association standards, installation 

permitting and registration with the state 

was not required.

■ Annual AST training was provided to 28 staff 

members identified as having responsibility 

for operating and fueling ASTs or that 

perform oversight for tank safety and 

environmental compliance.

A double-wall 500-gallon (1,893-liter) diesel fuel tank is located 

inside this standby generator enclosure at the Integrated Biorefinery 

Facility. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 45424

Tests were conducted to determine how long it would take a 

water-filled, 55-gallon (208-liter) drum to drain based on various 

rupture scenarios, providing valuable information to improve spill 

response. Photo by Theodore DeVito, NREL 45579
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 55

knowledge test to confirm their understanding of state 

and NREL requirements.

■ An internal assessment of the laboratory’s spill-control 

preparedness program identified one minor deficiency. 

One opportunity for improvement was also identified 

concerning the availability of SPCC plans and clarification of NREL environmental staff notification information used by NREL Security in the event of a petroleum 

spill. Both items were subsequently addressed.

7.5 RADIOLOGICAL MATERIALS AND 

WASTE MANAGEMENT

The laboratory currently uses radiological materials in 

electron microscopy staining. A number of sealed sources 

are also present in analytical and process equipment, 

check sources, and emergency exit signs. Unlike many 

DOE facilities, NREL does not have legacy radiological 

contamination issues associated with past nuclear weapons production and research.

2016 Compliance Summary and Activities

■ Program activities were in compliance with 

requirements.

■ Only small quantities (less than 1 cubic yard [0.76 cubic 

meter]) of low-level (0.007 curies) radioactive waste are 

currently in storage awaiting off-site disposal.

■ In accordance with a federal regulation and DOE Order, 

NREL submitted its annual Radionuclide Air Emissions 

Annual Report to the EPA confirming that the laboratory is in compliance with air emissions standards. For 

calendar year 2016, the effective dose equivalent of 

radiation to the public was 0.038 millirem (mrem) per 

year, far below the 10 mrem per year limit.

2016 Accomplishments and Highlights 

■ Spill tests were conducted at two locations 

at the STM site using 55-gallon (208-liter) 

water-filled drums to determine the speed 

and distance with which a potential spill 

could reach property boundaries. Based 

on the information obtained, additional 

spill control equipment was procured and 

spill control and response procedures were 

modified. 

■ To be prepared for container breaches, 

the emergency response team practiced 

sealing holes in a 55-gallon (208-liter) 

drum filled with water. This exercise 

provided information on patching method 

effectiveness and identified patch materials 

best suited to NREL activities.

■ A rapid response trailer was obtained and 

stocked with materials and equipment to be 

used in the event of a large spill. 

■ Maps delineating drainage basins and points 

of connection of the stormwater collection 

system at both the STM site and NWTC were 

developed for use by emergency responders 

in the event of a spill. This information will 

allow staff to quickly identify and then 

protect site drainages and stormwater 

outfalls, thus preventing impacts to offsite 

properties. 

To understand effective dose equivalent, you must first 

define dose and dose equivalent:

■ Dose – a generic term to describe the amount of 

radiation a person receives.

■ Dose Equivalent – a measure of the biological 

risk of the energy that the radiation deposited in 

tissue, which depends on the type of radiation 

and the tissues exposed. The units of dose equivalent are called rems, and a thousandth of a rem is 

called a millirem, abbreviated as mrem.

■ Effective Dose Equivalent – the total of the dose 

equivalent to the organ or tissue multiplied by 

weighting factors applicable to each of the body 

organs or tissues that are exposed to radiation.

An average person in the United States receives 

about 310 mrem each year from natural sources and 

an additional 310 mrem from medical procedures 

and consumer products.

What Is “Effective Dose Equivalent?”
56 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) is a federal 

law that requires potential environmental (human and 

natural) impacts to be considered for activities having 

a federal connection, such as those using federal funds, 

properties, facilities, employees and equipment. NEPA 

mandates that the federal agencies weigh the potential 

for environmental impacts equally among all factors 

when making decisions. In carrying out the requirements 

of NEPA, potential environmental impacts from a wide 

range of activities conducted at NREL and other DOE 

sites/facilities must be evaluated prior to spending funds 

or commencing work. 

8.1 NEPA IMPLEMENTATION

NREL Project Managers or Subject Matter Experts initiate 

the NEPA review process. NREL NEPA Specialists provide 

support to the DOE Golden Field Office in conducting 

the NEPA environmental review. Potential environmental 

impacts of a specific activity are identified and evaluated and, if necessary, measures are taken to avoid or 

minimize those impacts. The level of review conducted 

is appropriate to the potential impacts of the proposed 

activity or may also include activities that require consultations with other federal agencies, such as with the State 

Historic Preservation Office or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife 

Service. A planned construction project, for example, 

receives a more rigorous and potentially more time 

consuming review than a project only involving routine 

office or laboratory work. The decision resulting from the 

review and analysis is considered the NEPA Determination. A final determination must be completed before 

federal funds are expended, before a contract award can 

be made, and before project activities begin.

NREL, the DOE Golden Field Office and other federal 

agencies use a type of programmatic NEPA document, 

known as a Site-Wide Environmental Assessment, to 

8 NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL

POLICY ACT

An iris blooms amid the xeriscape landscaping at the 

Research Support Facility. Photo by Brenda Beatty, NREL 45580
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 57

analyze potential environmental impacts associated 

with current and future planned actions over a period 

of five to ten years. The document serves as a planning 

tool to aid ongoing and future operational and development decisions related to DOE sites. The NREL Site-Wide 

Environmental Assessments for the STM site and NWTC, 

both of which were updated in 2014, provide a baseline 

environmental analysis that streamlines future environmental reviews, improves and coordinate site and agency 

planning, and maximizes cost savings. 

8.2 NEPA PROGRAM RESTRUCTURING

In 2016, NREL and the DOE Golden Field Office completed 

restructuring NREL’s NEPA program that brought about 

a streamlined approach to the environmental review 

process. Five site- and activity-specific Programmatic 

NEPA Determinations for routine maintenance and 

research activities were established. The new process also 

outlined three levels of analysis required for proposed 

activities. The three levels include:

■ Activities for which no additional review is required 

because those impacts have already been analyzed in 

the context of a Site-Wide Environmental Assessment 

or in one of the Programmatic NEPA Determinations; 

■ Activities that have been evaluated in a Site-Wide Environmental Assessment but must undergo a detailed 

review by NREL NEPA Specialists to ensure that potential environmental impacts have been previously 

analyzed, there are no extraordinary circumstances 

present, and one of the Programmatic NEPA Determinations were applicable; and

■ Activities where more significant environmental 

impacts may be possible and/or other federal agencies are involved. A detailed questionnaire, DOE’s EQ1, 

must be completed and submitted to the DOE Golden 

Field Office NEPA Specialists for review and analysis. 

The NEPA Determination must then be approved and 

signed by a DOE NEPA Compliance Officer and filed in 

the DOE Golden Field Office NEPA database. 

Additional information regarding NREL’s NEPA 

program management can be found in the NREL 2015 

Environmental Performance Report at: www.nrel.gov/

docs/fy16osti/65807.pdf , section 9.

2016 Compliance Summary and Activities

■ Program activities were in compliance with 

requirements.

■ A total of 383 NEPA Worksheets and 18 Environmental 

Checklists were completed in 2016 for project activities 

on- and off-site.

■ A NEPA program assessment conducted in 2014 by the 

DOE Golden Field Office identified findings related to 

document control, training, and adherence to internal 

NEPA processes. To address the findings, the following 

program improvements were completed in 2016:

● The NEPA program was evaluated to identify projects that do not require additional review as their 

impacts have been thoroughly analyzed in the STM 

site and NWTC Environmental Assessments. 

● The NEPA worksheet was redesigned to contain all 

environmental review criteria on one page. A pilot 

program was developed to test the effectiveness of 

the new NEPA worksheet prior to full implementation of the revised program.

● Training related to the new NEPA process was 

provided to affected staff.

● The NREL NEPA procedure and handbook were 

updated and made available to all NREL employees 

via the NREL intranet.

● Quarterly NEPA monitoring was conducted to 

determine if the updated process was effective or if 

adjustments need to be made. 

2016 Accomplishments and Highlights 

■ Completed a restructuring of the environmental review process to identify ways to enhance 

the laboratory’s ability to meet the spirit and 

intent of NEPA requirements

■ NREL NEPA Specialists continued to provide 

NEPA support in identifying potential environmental impacts related to DOE Funding 

Opportunity Announcements that support 

DOE’s mission.
58 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

Natural resources at the STM site and the NWTC are 

managed responsibly to ensure NREL’s research needs 

are met while protecting native wildlife, vegetation, and 

cultural resources. Responsible management benefits 

not only the environment, but also NREL employees and 

the surrounding community. Management focuses on 

these key areas:

■ Wildlife management

■ Endangered species and species of concern

■ Vegetation management

■ Wetlands and floodplains

■ Cultural resources

■ Additional information regarding program management for these five areas can be found in section 10 of 

the NREL 2015 Environmental Performance Report at: 

www.nrel.gov/docs/fy16osti/65807.pdf.

9.1 WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT

Due to their location just east of the foothills of the 

Rocky Mountains, wildlife is plentiful at both the STM site 

and the NWTC. NREL promotes responsible management 

of wildlife and habitat through periodic formal surveys 

and review of impacts to wildlife when designing and 

implementing projects. 

At the STM site, the original wildlife survey of the property was completed in 1987 and an additional study of 

the conservation easement property was performed in 

1999. Subsequent surveys were completed in 2005 and 

in 2011. 

Mammals identified during the surveys at the STM 

site included mule deer, coyotes, gray foxes, red foxes, 

raccoons, long-tailed weasels, striped skunks, badgers, 

bobcats, mountain lions, rabbits, and various smaller 

mammals. More than 75 species of birds have been 

9 NATURAL AND 

CULTURAL RESOURCES 

PROTECTION

A female Red-winged blackbird was observed among the 

cattails in a wetland area at the STM site. Photo by 

Dennis Schroeder, NREL 45399
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 59

recorded by the formal wildlife surveys and supplemental 

employee observations. A number of raptor species have 

been recorded at or above the STM site, especially during 

spring migration. Two raptor species are residents at the 

site: American kestrel and red-tailed hawk. Reptiles and 

amphibians inhabit the STM site as well. Most notably, 

the western rattlesnake is routinely encountered around 

the area.

DOE prepared a biological characterization inventory 

in 1992 for the entire Rocky Flats Plant, including the 

2016 Accomplishments and Highlights 

■ Acoustic bat monitoring at the NWTC, which has 

been in progress since 2011, continued from April 

through October near the Rock Creek drainage 

area on the east side of the site. NREL also coordinated with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on the 

adjacent Rocky Flats National Wildlife Refuge for 

additional acoustical monitoring in June and July.

■ To confirm acoustic bat monitoring software 

results, a wildlife biologist was hired to conduct 

“mist netting,” a survey method in which bats are 

collected in nets, identified, and then released. The 

survey was conducted in July and August at the 

NWTC in conjunction with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife 

Service at the adjacent Rocky Flats National Wildlife Refuge. Seven species of bats were captured 

during mist netting; all but one, the fringed myotis 

(Myotis thysanodes), were recorded during acoustic 

surveys. 

■ Wildlife surveys were conducted at the NWTC. Four 

amphibian species, two reptiles, 33 avian species, 

and 19 mammal species were recorded. Highlights 

include the northern leopard frog, a state species 

of concern, and feline predators (both bobcat and 

mountain lion). 

■ Four honey bee (Apis spp.) swarms were identified 

and collected by a local beekeeper, who used the 

swarm to create a new colony at the beekeeper’s 

apiary.

■ Tree swallows (Tachycineta bicolor) again nested in 

two of the boxes along the eastern edge of a STM 

site detention basin. House wrens occupied nest 

boxes near the STM site historical amphitheater.

■ Mason bees (Osmia spp.) and leaf cutter bees 

(Megachile spp.) occupied bee boxes installed previously in a STM site detention basin.

■ No cases of tularemia, an infectious disease found 

in rabbits and other lagomorphs, occurred at NREL 

sites in 2016, following the epidemic that occurred 

in the rabbit population in 2015.

■ Placement of bird deterrent in the form of fritted 

glass was completed on the STM site employee 

parking garage glass windows. 

■ A roll-on grape extract was tested to repel 

northern flickers (Colaptes auratus) from drilling 

holes into the façade of several older buildings in 

search of cavities in which to nest. The repellent, 

which was applied monthly from March through 

May, was somewhat successful in reducing the 

overall number of holes initiated by the flickers.

■ A site-wide survey at the STM site was completed 

to identify locations where snakes could potentially 

enter site buildings; building modifications will 

occur as funding allows.

■ In support of the Presidential Memorandum, Creating a Federal Strategy to Promote the Health of Honey 

Bees and Other Pollinators, milkweed seeds were 

collected onsite and distributed in the STM site 

detention basin.

■ NREL participated in a symposium at the North 

American National Ornithological conference, 

presenting experience gained on bird mortality due to building glass and the enhancements 

made to NREL facilities to reduce bird-building 

collisions. 

■ NREL research staff facilitated a test of avian detection equipment at the NWTC intended to reduce 

avian collisions with wind turbines. To gather the 

data, a bald and golden eagle were fitted with a 

GPS logger and released from an aerial lift, while 

their flight paths toward their handler were tracked 

by both the GPS unit and two prototype avian 

detection devices. The project collaborators included Laufer Wind, Boulder Imaging, and RES America. 

Laufer Wind assessed the data collected to test and 

validate wind turbine radar to be used to detect 

birds. RES America’s device, IdentiFlight, created 

in collaboration with Boulder Imaging, used data 

to further refine their stereoscopic camera-based 

system to detect and identify avian species. 
60 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

NWTC, which was part of the no-activity buffer zone of 

the Rocky Flats plant at the time. Signs or tracks of bears 

and mountain lions were identified. Approximately 20 

species of birds were sighted at or near the site. Raptor 

surveys were conducted at the NWTC in 1994 and 1995 

which identified seven raptor species on or in the vicinity of the site. An avian survey was again completed 

in 2003 and updated in 2011. A 2016 survey included 

mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and terrestrial arthropods 

with results duplicating the 2011 survey that showed 

that various mammals, including elk, mule deer, coyotes, 

desert cottontail rabbits, bobcats, bats, deer mice, prairie 

voles, and shrews, continue to feed and occupy the site. 

Although seldom seen, rattlesnakes, bull snakes, racers, 

and several other reptiles are also known to occupy the 

site. Amphibians, including boreal chorus frogs, Woodhouse’s toad, and northern leopard frog, occupy wetlands 

at NWTC. 

A complete list of all wildlife species identified at both the 

STM site and the NWTC is found in Appendix B.

2016 Compliance Summary and Activities

■ Ground-nesting bird surveys were conducted prior 

to annual mowing operations at the NWTC in conformance with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. A vesper 

sparrow (Pooecetes gramineus) nest was found and 

cordoned off; mowing was delayed in that area until 

it was clear that the eggs had hatched and the young 

had permanently left the nest.

■ The site of a potential solar array at the NWTC was 

mowed in the late fall to accommodate spring 2017 

installation. Fall mowing results in lower grass height in 

the following spring, decreasing the attractiveness of 

potential ground-nesting bird sites, and consequently 

avoiding conflicts with the research mission and

native wildlife. 

9.2 ENDANGERED SPECIES AND 

SPECIES OF CONCERN

The federal Endangered Species Act provides for the 

designation and protection of wildlife, fish, and plant 

species that are in danger of extinction and preserves 

the habitats on which these species depend. NREL, as a 

federal facility, is required to abide by the Endangered 

Species Act. Compliance ensures that our actions do not 

adversely affect threatened, endangered, or candidate 

species that are listed under the Endangered Species Act. 

NREL also complies with restrictions associated with the 

Colorado Division of Parks and Wildlife related to endangered, threatened, and species of concern for Colorado, 

as well as the rare plant species listed under the Colorado 

Natural Heritage Program.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which administers the 

Endangered Species Act, lists nine species as threatened, 

endangered, or a candidate for listing that could potentially be found in Jefferson and Boulder Counties. Of these 

species, three have the potential to occur at the STM site 

or the NWTC, including the Preble’s meadow jumping 

mouse, the Ute ladies’ tresses orchid, and the Colorado 

butterfly plant.

Surveys conducted in 2011 did not detect threatened, 

endangered, or species of concern. The 2016 survey at 

the NWTC found the Northern leopard frog within one 

wetland area. The leopard frog needs open water for a 

NREL’s pollinator protection plan assists pollinators such as this 

honey bee observed on a Hawthorne at the STM site. Photo by 

Brenda Beatty, NREL 45577

Natural and manmade habitats serve many wildlife species at 

NREL, including this Cottontail rabbit. Photo by Nicole Gilbert, 

NREL 45918
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 61

part of its lifecycle, and ample precipitation that fell in 

the spring and early summer of 2015 and 2016 provided 

sufficient open water. Therefore, leopard frogs may only 

be present when enough surface water is available at the 

right time of year, generally through late June. 

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has designated critical 

habitat associated with the federally endangered Preble’s 

meadow jumping mouse within the upper reaches of 

Rock Creek, including a small area at the southeast corner 

of the NWTC. This area may not be disturbed without prior 

coordination with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Five other species, which occur in the Platte River watershed in Nebraska, are listed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife 

Service in accordance with the Endangered Species Act 

as species that must be considered for Colorado and 

Wyoming projects that may deplete water supplies to the 

Platte River system. These include three birds, the Piping 

plover (Charadrius melodus), the Whooping crane (Grus 

americana), and the Least tern (Sternula antillarum); a fish, 

the Pallid sturgeon (Scaphirhynchus albus); and a plant, 

the Western prairie fringed orchid (Platanthera praeclara). 

As part of the STM site and NWTC NEPA environmental 

assessments conducted in 2014, NREL consulted with 

the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for future activities that 

have the potential to deplete water in the Platte River 

system. Since 2014, NREL is required to monitor water use 

to ensure that the amounts agreed upon in the context 

of the consultation are not exceeded. NREL’s water use is 

reported to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service annually. 

2016 Compliance Summary and Activities

■ Program activities were in compliance with 

requirements.

Spirit, a 20-year-old Bald Eagle, is released from an aerial lift at 

the NWTC and flies to its handler several hundred meters away. 

Equipped with a GPS tracking device, the eagle’s flight path is 

recorded and compared to readings from an innovative radar 

system which, when fully developed, will be capable of detecting 

avian species and assist in preventing bird strikes with wind 

turbines. Laufer Wind, Boulder Imaging, and RES America brought 

their equipment to the NWTC to conduct testing in February 2016. 

Spirit was brought to the NWTC from Auburn University, where he 

serves as the university's mascot. Photo by Mark McDade, NREL 45581

Photo by Lee Jay Fingersh, NREL 35730

Photo by Lee Jay Fingersh, NREL 35731

Laufer Wind plans the release points and flight routes of the Bald and 

Golden eagles brought to the NWTC. The study allowed researchers 

to test and further develop a radar system and other equipment 

capable of detecting raptors and other avian species to eliminate 

turbine-bird collisions. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 35742
62 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

9.3 VEGETATION MANAGEMENT

Native plants have evolved over long periods of time in 

harmony with the local climate and surrounding soil, 

growing in association with microorganisms and resident wildlife to create diverse ecosystems. Through this 

evolution, native plants have developed natural defenses 

against pests and diseases specific to their locale. When 

non-native plants are introduced into an environment 

they often overcome indigenous plants, attract new types 

of pests and diseases and out-compete native plants 

for nutrients and water. They can also deprive wildlife 

of nutrients and shelter. Plants such as kochia (Bassia 

scoparia), Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense), Russian olive 

(Elaeagnus angustifolia), diffuse knapweed (Centaurea 

diffusa), dalmation toadflax (Linaria vulgaris), and 

myrtle spurge (Euphorbia myrsinites) are examples of 

non-native plants that can have destructive effects on 

natural habitats.

Landscaped areas near NREL buildings and common 

areas are designed to include features such as native 

plantings, xeriscape principles suited to arid climates, and 

infiltration of stormwater to provide water and nutrients 

to landscape plants and to recharge groundwater in the 

area. Adhering to such designs helps promote wildlifefriendly vegetation and reduces the introduction of 

non-native species and the pests and diseases that can 

accompany them. 

Where non-native species exist, NREL uses an integrated 

weed management approach that incorporates various 

types of weed control methods including mechanical 

practices (e.g., mowing or hand pulling), cultural practices 

(e.g., reclamation of disturbed areas), prevention (e.g., 

limiting or eliminating driving of vehicles off established 

roadways), and herbicide treatment. The effectiveness 

Flowering milk thistle, a noxious weed found throughout Colorado, 

including the STM site and NWTC. Photo by Brent Nelson, NREL 23888

2016 Accomplishments and Highlights 

■ Monthly review and coordination meetings 

were conducted to assess the success 

of seasonal herbicide applications and 

revegetation efforts.

■ A vegetation survey was conducted at the 

NWTC.

■ A procedural guide for landscaping 

subcontractors and NREL maintenance staff 

was finalized to effectively manage native 

grasses and other vegetation, the care of 

which is often different from that applied to 

non-native grasses and vegetation.

■ Annual herbicide spraying was performed 

to continue control of diffuse knapweed 

(Centaurea diffusa) at the NWTC, and Canada 

thistle (Cirsium arvense), houndstongue 

(Cynoglossum officinale), and myrtle spurge 

(Euphorbia myrsinites) at the STM site.

■ Weed mapping was performed at the NWTC. 

Results indicated a significant reduction in 

the acreage of weeds, particularly for diffuse 

knapweed, due to NREL’s persistent weed 

management control efforts.

2016 Accomplishments and Highlights 

■ Program activities were in compliance with 

requirements.

■ Wildlife biologists completed a survey at 

the NWTC that is performed every five years 

and found no federally listed threatened or 

endangered species. However, the northern 

leopard frog was found, which is a listed 

species of concern by Colorado.
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 63

of control methods is periodically assessed. The use 

of multiple control strategies has been successful in 

significantly reducing populations of diffuse knapweed 

(Centaurea diffusa) and Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense). 

The weed control program maintains the flexibility 

needed to respond to changes in weed populations from 

year to year.

Comprehensive site-wide weed surveys and mapping are 

performed approximately every five years. Smaller areas 

of NREL’s main sites are assessed annually. A list of noxious 

weed species as defined on the state’s noxious weed list 

and identified at the STM site and the NWTC is found in 

Table 7.

2016 Compliance Summary and Activities

■ Program activities were in compliance with 

requirements.

■ At the NWTC, herbicides were applied to control B- and 

C-listed weeds to approximately 122 acres (49 hectares) in April and 50 acres (20 hectares) in September. 

■ At the STM site, herbicides were applied to control 

A-, B- and C-listed weeds to approximately 20 acres 

(8 hectares) in May, 14 acres (6 hectares) in June and 

July, and 39 acres (16 hectares) in October.

■ The presence of two species of knapweed weevils 

previously released along the Pine Ridge at the NWTC 

was confirmed. One species attacks the seed heads 

while the second attacks the roots of the knapweed 

plant. This effort further diversifies noxious weed 

control methods utilized by NREL. The effectiveness 

of this approach may take two or more years to 

determine.

■ Herbicides were applied in October to a large tract (37 

acres (15 hectares) of grassland on the STM site conservation easement to control knapweed. 

9.4 WETLANDS AND FLOODPLAINS

Wetlands are lands that are inundated or saturated by 

surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support distinct soil types and plant communities. 

Wetland areas typically take the form of swamps, marshes, 

bogs, and groundwater seeps and are frequently located 

within or adjacent to a floodplain. Floodplains are land 

areas adjacent to rivers and streams that are subject to 

recurring inundation. 

Both wetlands and floodplains play a key role in providing 

floodwater storage, reducing flood flow rate, and filtering floodwater. The resulting enriched floodplain soils 

promote the growth of wetland and riparian vegetation 

that provide habitat for a rich diversity of terrestrial and 

aquatic plants and animals. 

Floodplains vary in extent from those that contain the 

more frequent low volume rain event flows to widths 

that have the capacity to contain the 100-year flood 

event and greater. Stream channels at NREL sites generally are more characterized by the former description. 

There are no 100-year floodplains defined by Jefferson 

County or the Federal Emergency Management Agency 

on NREL sites.

Table 8 lists the types and acreage of wetlands at the 

STM site and NWTC that have been identified to 

date. Please refer to Appendix A for locations of 

these wetlands.

NREL preserves the important natural functions of its 

wetlands and floodplains, regardless of size or extent, to 

protect the physical, biological, and chemical integrity of 

receiving waters and riparian areas on and adjacent to the 

STM site and the NWTC.

2016 Compliance Summary and Activities

Program activities were in compliance with regulations.

TABLE 7. NOXIOUS WEED SPECIES IDENTIFIED 

AT THE STM SITE AND THE NWTCa

Noxious Weed 

Class

Species Present at 

STM

Species Present at 

NWTC

Class A: b Myrtle spurge None

Class B:c

Canada thistle

Common teasel

Dalmation toadflax

Diffuse knapweed

Hoary cress 

(whitetop) 

Hound’s tongue

Musk thistle

Russian olive 

Scotch thistle

Bull thistle 

Canada thistle

Chicory

Common mullein

Common teasel

Dalmation toadflax 

Diffuse knapweed

Hoary cress 

(whitetop)

Moth mullian

Musk thistle

Sulfur cinquefoil

Class C: d Field bindweed

Cheatgrass 

Field bindweed

Cheatgrass

a Species identified reflect findings of site-wide weed surveys performed 

 in 2011 at the STM site and in 2016 at the NWTC. 

b

 Identified by the state for eradication.

c

 Identified by the state to stop the spread.

d

 Identified by the state to more effectively manage on private and public lands 

 through education, research, and biological control resources.
64 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

9.5 CULTURAL RESOURCES

Cultural resources are defined as any prehistoric or 

historic district, site, building, structure, or object considered important to a culture, subculture, or community for 

scientific, traditional, religious, or other reasons.

Cultural resources can be divided into three major 

categories:

■ Prehistoric and historic archaeological resources

■ Architectural resources

■ Traditional cultural resources.

Several formal surveys of historic and cultural resources 

have been performed on the STM site. As a result, three 

historical resources have been identified and recognized 

under the Archeological and Historic Preservation Act 

of 1974 as significant cultural resources that should be 

preserved. These resources are the remaining vestiges of 

facilities that were part of Camp George West, operated 

by the Colorado National Guard from 1903 through the 

beginning of World War II, after which time much of the 

land currently occupied by the STM site was leased to the 

federal government for military training purposes. The 

three historical resources, constructed in the 1930s and 

early 1940s during the Works Progress Administration 

era, include:

■ An open-air amphitheater

■ A stone bridge spanning a natural drainage channel 

adjacent to the amphitheater

■ A stone and concrete ammunition bunker below the 

amphitheater.

Through NREL’s efforts, these structures have been added 

to the National Register, with the amphitheater and 

stone footbridge listed together as a single resource. 

Additionally, a portion of the STM site south of Denver 

West Parkway lies within the 98-acre Camp George West 

Historic District.

A formal survey of the NWTC was conducted in 19946

and identified no significant historical or archeological resources.

2016 Compliance Summary and Activities

■ Program activities were in compliance with 

requirements.

TABLE 8. WETLAND TYPES AND ACREAGES AT 

THE STM SITE AND THE NWTC

Wetland Type STM Site

(acres/hectares)

NWTC 

(acres/hectares)

Headwater 0

(0.0)

2.0

(0.9)

Palustrine Emergenta 1.2

(0.5)

4.2

(1.9)

Seasonal Pond 0.6

(0.2)

0

(0.0)

Wet Meadow 0.3

(0.1)

0

(0.0)

Total 2.1

(0.8)

6.2

(2.8)

a

Palustrine wetland areas have been surveyed and meet all 

federal wetland criteria. Other wetlands listed were identified 

by vegetation type only.

The depression-era outdoor amphitheater at the STM site was 

constructed by the Work Progress Administration from 1933-1935. 

Photo by David Parsons, NREL 06923

6 Labat-Anderson, Inc. (1994). Archaeological Resurvey of the National Wind Technology Center, National Renewable Energy Laboratory. December 2.
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 65

In 1999, DOE granted a conservation easement of 177 

acres (72 hectares) at the STM site to Jefferson County 

(see Figure 5). 

A baseline inventory of the property was prepared in 

June 1999 to document the current condition of the 

easement property and to assess the conservation value 

of that property.7 The baseline inventory includes descriptions of the geographical setting and adjacent property 

owners, access and use of the property by the public, and 

the existing environmental conditions of the property 

(including geology, hydrology, vegetation, wildlife, and 

cultural resources). Vegetation within the easement area 

includes grasslands interspersed with shrubland communities and trees, primarily in the drainages. Several seeps 

also occur throughout the area. 

The easement helps preserve the natural character of the 

property, including its visual, biological, and recreational 

resources. The goals of the easement are to:

■ Retain, preserve, and protect natural, scenic, ecological, and historic resources 

■ Protect the ecosystem and provide sustainable habitat 

for diverse vegetation and wildlife

■ Ensure the scenic and biological integration with 

adjoining open-space land

■ Prevent further industrial, commercial, or residential 

development 

■ Preserve the conservation easement property as 

natural open space.

Local policies established by Jefferson County, Golden, 

and Lakewood reflect community sensitivity with respect 

to the visual qualities provided by natural resources in 

the area around the STM site. Specifically, the Jefferson 

County General Land Use Plan characterizes North and 

South Table Mountains as “unique landscapes” and 

7 U.S. Department of Energy. Golden Field Office. (1999). National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) Site Conservation Easement Baseline Inventory. Golden, Colorado.

10 CONSERVATION LANDS

Evening primrose in bloom in the conservation easement 

at the STM site. Photo by Tom Ryon, NREL 32777
66 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

states that “maintaining landscapes that have a unique 

visual quality” is key to maintaining the quality of life in 

Jefferson County.

Jefferson County Open Space maintains formal trails on 

the conservation easement property. Two trails cross the 

easement, connecting Denver West Parkway (near the STM 

site east entrance) to the trails on the mesa top. NREL staff, 

DOE staff, and the public use these trails frequently.

Each year, at least one visual inspection of the conservation easement property is conducted to identify 

management activities needed to address erosion, 

weed management, trail conditions, or other issues that 

may exist.

2016 Activities and Achievements

■ On August 2, lightning struck South Table Mountain 

and sparked a 29-acre (12-hectare) wildfire. Photos 

taken once to twice per month from that time recorded the natural restoration progress. The area was 

monitored regularly to identify potential management 

needs, such as erosion control, noxious weed 

management, and reseeding with native grasses.

■ NREL conducted summer and fall visual inspections of 

the conservation easement. Potential improvements to 

the management of the easement were noted. Following the inspection, weeds were treated and Russian 

olive trees were girdled to kill and prevent the spread of 

this invasive species.

■ Jefferson County Open Space conducted their annual 

assessment of the conservation easement. The resulting 

Conservation Easement Monitoring Report8 highlighted 

the significant natural features of the land parcel, 

including wildlife habitat and unique landforms, as well 

as the passive recreational amenities provided by the 

public trails that cross the area. No significant changes 

to the land use and condition were observed from 

baseline observations.

8 Jefferson County Open Space Department, Jerry Bader. (2016). Conservation Easement Monitoring Report. August 2, 2016. Golden, Colorado.
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 67

Figure 5. Conservation easement at the STM Site
68 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

Vegetation surveys are periodically completed for the 

STM site and the NWTC, with the most recent surveys 

occurring at the STM site in 2011 and at the NWTC in 

2016. Plant communities and species were identified 

for each site at that time, and changes from previous 

surveys are noted below.

STM Plant Communities

The majority of vegetation at the STM site belongs to 

the grassland community type. Within that association, 

there are two distinct community types: short grassland 

on the mesa top and mixed grassland located on the 

mesa slopes and toe areas. Other mapped vegetation 

communities at the STM site include ravine shrubland, 

tall shrubland, short shrubland, and wetlands. The plant 

communities are described below and mapped as illustrated in Figure 6. 

Short Grassland

Short grassland is found on the flat top of the mesa. The 

dominant grass species are blue grama (Chondrosum 

gracile), a native prairie species, and cheatgrass (Anisantha tectorum), a noxious weed. Populations of diffuse 

knapweed (Acosta diffusa) and Dalmatian toadflax (Linaria genistifolia subsp. dalmatica) are scattered throughout the whole community. These two noxious weeds 

comprise approximately 1% of the short grassland.

Alyssum (Alyssum parviflorum), an introduced species, is 

the dominant forb. Several species of prickly pear cactus 

(Opuntia fragilis, O. macrorhiza, O. phaeacantha, and O. 

polyacantha) occur throughout the short grassland on 

the mesa top, as does hen-and-chicks (Echinocereus 

viridiflorus) and pincushion cacti (Coryphantha missouriensis and C. vivipara var. vivpara). Well-draining hillocks 

often support thick stands of needle-and-thread grass 

(Hesperostipa comata) and yucca (Yucca glauca). Some 

short shrubs such as rubber rabbitbrush (Chrysothamnus 

nauseosus subsp.), chokecherry (Padus virginiana), and 

APPENDIX A:

PLANT COMMUNITIES

AT THE STM SITE AND 

THE NWTC

A columbine in bloom in the xeriscape garden at the RSF. 

Photo by Brenda Beatty, NREL 45578
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 69

skunkbrush (Rhus aromatica subsp. trilobata) occur infrequently in the short grassland area and concentrate along 

the rimrock areas. Several large hackberry trees (Celtis 

reticulata) are clustered at the very edge of the mesa top.

Historically, this short grassland was probably dominated 

by blue grama grass and other short-grass species such 

as buffalo grass (Buchloë dactyloides), intermixed with the 

other species associations described above. However, the 

entire mesa-top area has become dominated by cheatgrass, an aggressive noxious weed. This weed is changing 

the appearance and general species composition of the 

area by apparently out-competing native plants.

Mixed Grassland

The mesa slopes and toe areas on the STM site also 

support blue grama and cheatgrass, but are dominated by 

a mixed-grass species association of needle-and-thread 

grass and western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii), with 

smaller amounts of big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii), 

sideoats grama (Bouteloua curtipendula), three-awn (Aristida purpurea), and green needlegrass (Nassella viridula). 

As in the short grassland areas, a large number of forbs 

also occur in the mixed grasslands.

A few patches of anomalous vegetation occur within the 

mixed grasslands where subsurface water appears to be 

close to the surface. These areas support wide swaths of 

mat muhly (Muhlenbergia richardsonis). One is located on 

a southern-facing slope, near the eastern property boundary. The other is located on a southwestern-facing slope 

of the ravine north of the NREL Education Center, formerly 

known as the Visitors Center. This area is notable for a 

large population of poison ivy (Toxicodendron rydbergii), 

which grows in thickets of tall (one meter and larger) 

plants that have a woody, shrub-like growth form. A small 

number of plains cottonwood (Populus deltoides) saplings, 

skunkbrush, chokecherry, and snowberry occurs in this 

patch as well.

The mixed-grass areas grade into both the upland and 

ravine shrublands and contribute the majority of the 

understory in these areas. Some mixed-grass areas also 

blend into disturbed areas, where reclamation species 

such as crested wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum) and 

smooth brome have been planted and have subsequently 

spread into the mixed-grass community.

Upland Shrublands

Shrubland habitat occurs along the upper sides of ravines 

and on the steeper mesa slopes, becoming more prominent as elevation increases up to the top of the mesa. The 

upland shrubland habitat, which excludes the shrublands 

in the ravine bottoms, comprises tall shrubland and short 

shrubland communities very similar in overall composition but distinguished by the dominant species.

Tall Shrubland

The tall shrubland areas are defined by stands of mountain mahogany (Cercocarpus montanus) that occur along 

the rim of the mesa, usually where volcanic cap rock is 

exposed, and on the upper mesa slopes below rimrock 

areas. The understory, with a large amount of bare soil, is 

notably sparse throughout this community. Cheatgrass 

is the most common herbaceous species in these areas, 

intermixed with needle-and-thread grass, yucca, and 

many cacti.

Short Shrubland

The short shrublands occur on elevated flat areas amidst 

the surrounding grasslands, some of which appear to 

have experienced surficial disturbance in the past. These 

areas are distinctive because of the dominance of rubber 

rabbitbrush. The other common location for short shrublands is on the outer slopes of the ravines. Skunkbrush 

defines these and other short shrublands along the 

upper portions of the steepest slopes of the mesa. These 

communities usually grade into the ravine shrublands 

along the drainage bottoms and the tall shrublands near 

the top of the mesa slopes. The short shrubland community also has a sparse understory of the same grasses and 

forbs as the tall-shrub community.

Ravine Shrublands

Ravine shrublands are limited to the lower sides and 

bottoms of the drainages that cut down through the 

mesa slopes. These communities support a variety of 

shrubs such as skunkbrush, chokecherry, and wild plum 

(Prunus americana), often growing in dense, impassible 

thickets. A few plains cottonwoods and peachleaf willow 

(Salix amygdaloides) trees occur at the top of the ravine 

channels and in other portions of the channel where the 

subsurface water table appears to be relatively high. A 

diverse herbaceous component is found in these drainages. In one instance near the southeast boundary, a ravine 

shrubland grades into an ephemeral drainage at the 

toe of the mesa. This drainage is vegetated with 

grassland species and conducts only occasional surface 

water runoff.

Wetlands

Five very small communities on the STM site were found 

to support wetland vegetation. These communities were 

not examined for the soils and hydrology that would classify them as functioning wetlands; rather, they are noted 
70 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

Figure 6. STM Site land cover types surveyed in 2011. Note: map was updated in 2012 to reflect building changes
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 71

only for their dominance of wetland vegetation. These 

are limited to very small areas (less than half an acre in 

total). One is in a shallow swale at the mouth of the ravine 

at the southwestern corner of the site boundary where 

surface water and/or subsurface drainage have created 

a pocket of saturated soil. Species here include sedges 

(Carex spp.), rushes (Juncus spp.), bulrush (Schoenoplectus 

spp.), and peachleaf willow. The second wetland could 

have formed as a result of past construction activities. This 

linear depression supports wetland vegetation along the 

central portion of the western site boundary, northeast of 

the photovoltaic array. Perhaps situated where equipment 

was once staged, this area appears to hold seasonal water 

for enough consecutive growing seasons to support some 

wetland vegetation including Arctic rush (Juncus arcticus), 

American speedwell (Veronica americana), and broadleaf 

cattail (Typha latifolia).

The wetland at the mouth of the ravine may no longer 

experience the hydrology that originally allowed these 

plants to establish there. In 2002, this plant community 

supported populations of cattails that were not observed 

in the 2011 survey. Three small seeps are located on the 

hill slope between the NREL Education Center and the 

public trail on the far eastern boundary of the site. These 

seeps are dominated with sedges, rushes, and Canada 

thistle (Cirsium arvensis).

A seventh wetland community that was observed by 

Plantae9 no longer appears to support wetland vegetation. In 2002, cattail species near an old stock tank in the 

eastern-most drainage appeared to have been supported 

by a pipe coming out of the hillside. Although the stock 

tank was observed in the 2011 survey, it appears the 

cattails have not persisted in the intervening years.

Disturbed/Reclaimed

This habitat type comprises all of the areas at the site 

that have experienced surface disturbance to vegetation 

caused by human activities. These mostly occur on the 

perimeter of the buildings, roads, parking lots, and soil 

stockpile areas. Most of these areas appear to have been 

re-vegetated and support a combination of native grassland plants, planted ornamental re-vegetation species, 

and native and introduced weeds.

NWTC Plant Communities

The majority of the vegetation at the NWTC belongs 

to the mixed-grass prairie association of the grassland 

formation. Mixed-grass prairie is defined by the presence 

of grass species typical of the tallgrass or true prairie 

such as big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii), little 

bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), and prairie dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis), with species more typical of 

the short-grass prairie such as blue grama (Chondrosum 

gracile) and buffalograss (Buchlöe dactyloides). Intermediate grasses (mid-grasses) such as the needle grasses 

(Hesperostipa and Nassella spp.), wheat grasses (Pascopyron, Agropyron, Elytrigia, Elymus, and Thinopyrum spp.), and 

blue grasses (Poa spp.) are also important constituents of 

mixed-grass prairie. 

The grasslands at the NWTC fall into the xeric mixedgrassland community type identified and classified 

primarily on available soils and soil moisture, reflected in 

xeric mixed-grassland plant species assemblages.

A number of changes in vegetation patterns noted since 

the NWTC was previously mapped is discussed below 

by specific plant community. The plant communities are 

described below and mapped as illustrated in Figure 7.

Mixed Grassland 

This community is distinguished from the non-native 

grassland community by the higher cover of native grasses and forbs. Native species typically make up 50%–60% 

of the vegetative cover. Common grasses in this community include smooth brome, Kentucky bluegrass, Canada 

bluegrass, big bluestem, little bluestem, switchgrass, 

and purple three-awn. Common forbs in this community 

include scurfpea, fringed sage, prairie sage, and hairy 

golden aster. 

Non-Native Grassland

The non-native grassland community is the most 

common community type at the NWTC. This community 

is dominated by introduced pasture grasses including 

smooth brome, Kentucky bluegrass, and Canada bluegrass. Non-native species make up 65%–90% of the vegetative cover in this community. Commonly observed forb 

species include alyssum (Alyssum simplex), Canada horseweed (Conyza canadensis), fringed sage (Artemisia frigida), 

prairie sage (Artemisia ludoviciana), scurfpea (Psoralidium 

tenuiflorum), and hairy golden aster (Heterotheca villosa). 

Native grasses within this community, particularly big 

bluestem and switchgrass, occur most frequently along 

roadside depressions, possiblydue to higher soil moisture 

from captured precipitation runoff.

Disturbed Native Grassland

This community occurs along the northern fence line of 

NWTC. Total vegetative cover in this community ranges 

from 30%–70%, and exposed soil in this community 

9 Plantae Consulting Services. (2000). Vegetation Survey. NREL National Wind Technology Center. Boulder, Colorado.
72 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

Figure 7. NWTC land cover types surveyed in 2016
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 73

consists of coarse gravel. The proximity of this community 

to machinery and buildings, the abundance of exposed 

ground, and the gravelly soil texture indicate that this 

area has been significantly disturbed by human activity. However, this community had the highest vegetative 

cover of native grasses within NWTC. This community is 

dominated by purple threeawn, big bluestem, and switchgrass. Other commonly observed species in this community include non-native grasses such as smooth brome, 

and ruderal weed species including annual sunflower 

(Helianthus annuus), prickly lettuce (Lactuca serriola), 

common mullein (Verbascum thapsus), and bigbract 

verbena (Verbena bracteata). 

Non-Native Yucca Grassland 

This community is very similar in composition to the nonnative grassland community; however, it is distinguished 

by the presence of stands of yucca (Yucca glauca) shrubs. 

Yucca typically occurs as scattered individuals throughout the grassland communities at the NWTC. In the areas 

identified as non-native yucca grassland, yucca occurs at 

a higher density than in the surrounding grassland, and 

the structural change from the surrounding grasslands 

warrants its inclusion as a separate community. Dominant 

grass species in this community include downy brome 

(Bromus tectorum), smooth brome, Kentucky bluegrass, 

and intermediate wheatgrass (Thinopyrum intermedium).

Degraded Grassland

The degraded grassland community has been heavily 

influenced by human disturbance and is dominated by 

non-native and noxious grass species with minimal native 

vegetation (typically less than 10%). The dominant species 

in this community are downy brome and intermediate 

wheatgrass. Downy brome is a List C Noxious Weed in 

Colorado. Near the southwest corner of the NWTC is an 

area containing significant bare soil that is dominated by 

annual and biennial weed species including kochia (Bassia 

scoparia), downy brome, and common sunflower. The soil 

in this area has a distinctive red color that is visible on 

recent aerial imagery. The degraded grassland community along the western boundary of the NWTC is possibly 

influenced by historic and ongoing disturbance that may 

originate from off-site activities. 

Ponderosa Pine Woodland

This community occurs along a granite outcrop located 

in the northwestern corner of the project area. Dominant tree and shrub species include ponderosa pine

(Pinus ponderosa), skunkbrush sumac (Rhus trilobata), 

wax currant (Ribes cereum), and wild plum (Prunus americana). Understory vegetation consists of native and nonnative grass and forb species. Common species include 

smooth brome, crested wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum), 

junegrass (Koeleria macrantha), sulphur cinquefoil 

(Potentilla recta), golden banner (Thermopsis rhombifolia), 

harebell (Campanula rotundifolia), and James’ nailwort 

(Paronychia jamesii).

Mixed Shrubland

The mixed shrubland community occurs on the southeast end of the same granite outcrop that supports the 

ponderosa pine woodland. The southeast end of this 

outcrop is lower and less exposed than where the ponderosa pine woodland occurs. Dominant shrub species 

include wax currant, skunkbrush sumac, chokecherry 

(Prunus virginiana), and western serviceberry (Amelanchier 

alnifolia). This community supports higher cover and 

diversity of native grasses and forbs than the surrounding 

non-native grassland community. Common grasses in this 

community include smooth brome, Kentucky bluegrass, 

big bluestem, junegrass, and sideoats grama (Bouteloua 

curtipendula). Common forbs include scurfpea, prairie 

sage, golden banner, hairy golden aster, and sulphur 

flower (Eriogonum umbellatum).

An isolated group of hawthorn (Crataegus erthyropoda) 

shrubs occurs along the western site boundary within 

the NWTC site boundary. These trees are at the top 

of the slope and occur directly east of an active area 

of construction disturbance, which is outside the 

NWTC boundary.

Palustrine Emergent Wetland 

Six wetlands were identified at the NWTC that fall into 

the palustrine emergent category.10 Dominant species 

in this community type include broadleaf cattail (Typha 

latifolia), Arctic rush (Juncus arcticus), common spikerush 

(Eleocharis palustris), and Nebraska sedge (Carex 

nebrascensis). Other commonly observed species include 

foxtail barley (Hordeum jubatum), Torrey’s rush (Juncus 

torreyi), cloaked bulrush (Scirpus pallidus), and willowherb 

(Epilobium) species. Patches of smooth brome, Kentucky 

bluegrass, big bluestem, and western wheatgrass 

(Pasocpyrum smithii) occur on the fringes of these 

wetland communities. 

A large palustrine emergent wetland (PEM) occurs 

south of the solar array in Row 1. The southernmost 

road separates this large wetland from a second smaller 

wetland located along the southern fence line of the 

10 Cowardin, Lewis M., Virginia Carter, Edward T. LaRoe, and Francis C. Golet. (1979). Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United States. Washington, D.C.
74 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

NWTC. These wetlands appear to be hydrologically 

connected and supported by seepage from a reservoir 

located south of the property boundary. Capture of 

surface water runoff may provide additional hydrology 

to these wetlands. The large wetland north of the road 

was previously identified by Plantae11; however, Walsh12

mapped this area as “mixed mesic grassland” dominated 

by big bluestem. Hydrological support has evidently 

increased since 2011 as this area was dominated by 

obligate wetland species and surface water was present 

throughout the area during the 2016 field surveys. 

A second large PEM occurs in a seasonal pond located 

southwest of the ponderosa pine woodland community. 

Walsh (2011a) indicated that wetlands at this location 

depend on an elevated spring and early summer water 

table to support the wetland community. Standing water 

was observed in the pond during both of the 2016 field 

surveys. Dominant species in this wetland are common 

spikerush and broadleaf cattail. Canada bluegrass is the 

dominant grass species in the uplands adjacent to this 

wetland community. Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense) and 

common mullein, both noxious weeds, were abundant 

on the west-facing slope above the pond. 

A third large PEM occurs south of the solar array in 

Row 3. This wetland consists of a large stand of cattails 

(Typha species) and foxtail barley surrounded by sandbar 

willow (Salix exigua) and plains cottonwood (Populus 

deltoides) trees. 

Two small PEMs occur on slopes along the northern 

boundary of the project area. The first PEM is located in 

the northwest corner of NWTC, and the second occurs 

along the northern fence line adjacent to the parking 

lot of the administration and engineering building. 

Dominant species in the westernmost wetland are 

Nebraska sedge and Arctic rush. Prairie cordgrass and 

Arctic rush are dominant in the easternmost wetland. 

These wetlands occur on gentle slopes and appear to 

be supported by ground water seeps. Both of these 

wetlands were previously identified and mapped by 

Walsh (2011a).

Headwater – Riparian Emergent Wetland

Headwater or riparian emergent wetland communities 

occur within the two prominent drainages located in the 

eastern half of NWTC (Figure 7). Both drainages show 

evidence of intermittent flow. The northernmost drainage is tributary to Coal Creek, and the southern drainage 

is tributary to Rock Creek. Dominant species within these 

wetlands include Arctic rush, foxtail barley, Nebraska 

sedge, and prairie cordgrass (Spartina pectinata). Significant patches of Canada thistle, bull thistle (Cirsium 

vulgare), and common teasel (Dipsacus fullonum), all List 

B noxious weeds, occur within the northernmost drainage. Other observed species include shortbeak sedge 

(Carex brevior), swordleaf rush (Juncus ensifolius), longstyle rush (Juncus longistylis), Torrey’s rush, common 

spikerush, and switchgrass. Occasional plains cottonwood trees, and sandbar willow shrubs occur along 

these drainages.

Disturbed – Non-habitat 

These cover types reflect surface disturbance due to 

human activities on the site. These areas include roadsides, 

pad sites, parking lot perimeters, construction sites, and 

storage areas. Some of these areas have been revegetated 

and now include a combination of species from surrounding natural plant communities, reclamation species, and 

adventive (non-native) or ruderal (native or adventive, 

disturbance colonizer) species. Dominant species noted 

include smooth bromegrass and cheatgrass. These areas 

are not specifically called out in Figure 7.

Ornamental Trees/Shrubs

Disturbed areas around buildings have been planted 

with a combination of native and ornamental trees and 

shrubs. The trees include multiple species of junipers 

(Sabina spp.) and pines (Pinus spp.), interspersed with 

ornamental deciduous trees. Shrubs in these areas are 

mainly chokecherry (Padus virginiana) and rose (Rosa 

spp.) bushes. These areas are not specifically called out 

in Figure 7. 

11 Plantae Consulting Services. (2000). Vegetation Survey, NREL National Wind Technology Center. Boulder, Colorado.

12 Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers. (2011a). 2010-2011 Vegetation and Wildlife Surveys at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory National Wind 

Technology Center, Jefferson County, CO. Prepared for the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. Golden, CO. 
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 75

The following are lists of common and scientific names 

of wildlife species observed at the STM site and the 

NWTC. The species listed for STM site were observed 

by staff and/or observed in surveys completed in 

1987, 2005, and 2011. The species for the NWTC were 

identified during surveys completed in 1996, 2003, 2011 

and 2016. For 1996 survey results, please refer to NREL’s 

2015 Environmental Performance Report that can be 

found at: www.nrel.gov/docs/fy16osti/65807.pdf.

APPENDIX B: 

WILDLIFE SPECIES 

OBSERVED AT THE STM SITE 

AND THE NWTC

Nova, a 16-year old Golden Eagle, is held by its Auburn 

University eagle handler at the NWTC. Nova, and a Bald 

Eagle named Spirit, are part of a research collaboration 

among Laufer Wind, Boulder Imaging, RES America, Auburn 

University, and NREL to develop a radar system capable of 

detecting avian species that will assist in preventing bird 

strikes with wind turbines. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, 

NREL 35734

TABLE 9. WILDLIFE SPECIES AT THE STM SITE

SPECIES COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME 1987 Survey 2005 Survey 2011 Survey

BIRDS

American crow Corvus brachyrhynchos X X

American goldfinch Carduelis tristis X

American kestrel Falco sparverius X X X

American pipit Anthus rubescens X

American redstart Setophaga ruticilla X

American robin Turdus migratorius X X X

American tree sparrow Spizella arborea X X

American white pelican Pelecanus erythrorhynchos X

Bald eagle1 Haleatus leucocephalus

Barn swallow Hirundo rustica X

Black-billed magpie Pica hudsonia X X X

Black-capped chickadee Poecile atricapilla X

Black-crowned night heron Nycticorax nycticorax X

Black-headed grosbeak Pheucticus melanocephalus X

Blue-gray gnatcatcher Polioptila caerulea X

Blue jay Cyanocitta cristata X X

Brewer’s blackbird Euphagus cyanocephalus X X

Brewer’s sparrow Spizella breweri X

Broad-tailed hummingbird Selasphorus platycercus X

Broad-winged hawk Buteo platypterus X

Brown-headed cowbird Molothrus ater X X X

Bullock's oriole Icterus bullockii X X

Bushtit Psaltriparus minimus X

1 Species observed at a time other than in a survey. Table 9 continued on page 76
76 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

Table 9 continued on page 77

TABLE 9. WILDLIFE SPECIES AT THE STM SITE

SPECIES COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME 1987 Survey 2005 Survey 2011 Survey

BIRDS

California gull Larus californicus X

Canada goose Branta canadensis X X

Cedar waxwing Bombycilla cedrorum X

Cassin’s kingbird Tyrannus vociferans X

Chestnut-collared longspur Calcarius ornatus X

Chipping sparrow Spizella passerina X

Cliff swallow Petrochelidon pyrrhonota X

Common grackle Quiscalus quiscula X

Common nighthawk Chordeiles minor X X X

Common raven Corvus corax X X

Common snipe Gallinago delicata X

Cooper's hawk Accipiter cooperii X X

Dark-eyed junco Junco hyemalis X X

Double-crested cormorant Phalacrocorax auritus X

Eastern kingbird Tyrannus tyrannus X

Eurasian collared dove1 Streptopelia decaocto

European starling Sturnus vulgaris X X X

Golden eagle Aquila chrysaetos X

Grasshopper sparrow Ammodramus savannarum X

Great blue heron Ardea herodias X X

Great horned owl1 Bubo virginianus

Green-tailed towhee Pipilo chlorurus X

Hepatic tanager Piranga flava X

Hermit thrush Catharus guttatus X

Horned lark Eremophila alpestris X X

House finch Carpodacus mexicanus X X

House sparrow Passer domesticus X X

House wren Troglodytes aedon X

Killdeer Charadrius vociferous X X X

Lark bunting Calamospiza melanocorys X X

Lark sparrow Chondestes grammacus X

Lazuli bunting Passerina amoena X

Lesser goldfinch Carduelis psaltria X

Loggerhead shrike Lanius ludovicianus X

MacGillivray's warbler Oporornis tolmiei X

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos X

Mountain bluebird Sialia currucoides X X

Mountain chickadee Poecile gambeli X

Mourning dove Zenaida macroura X X

Northern flicker Colaptes auratus X X

Northern goshawk Accipiter gentilis X

Northern harrier Circus cyaneus X

Northern saw-whet owl1 Aegolius acadicus

Orange-crowned warbler1 Oreothlypis celata

1 Species observed at a time other than in a survey.
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 77

Table 9 continued on page 78

TABLE 9. WILDLIFE SPECIES AT THE STM SITE

SPECIES COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME 1987 Survey 2005 Survey 2011 Survey

BIRDS

Osprey Pandion haliaetus X

Peregrine falcon Falco peregrinus X

Pine siskin Carduelis pinus X

Prairie falcon Falco mexicanus X

Red-breasted nuthatch Sitta canadensis X

Red-tailed hawk Buteo jamaicensis X X

Red-winged blackbird Agelaius phoeniceus X

Rock dove Columba livia X

Rock wren Salpinctes obsoletus X

Ruby-crowned kinglet Regulus calendula X

Sage thrasher Oreoscoptes montanus X

Say's phoebe Sayornis saya X

Sharp-shinned hawk Accipiter striatus X

Spotted towhee Pipilo maculates X

Swainson's hawk Buteo swainsoni X

Tree swallow Tachycineta bicolor X X

Turkey vulture Cathartes aura X

Vesper sparrow Pooecetes gramineus X

Virginia’s warbler Oreothlypis virginiae X 

Violet-green swallow Tachycineta thalassina X

Western kingbird Tyrannus verticalis X X

Western meadowlark Sturnella neglecta X X

Western scrub-jay Aphelocoma californica X

White-crowned sparrow Zonotrichia leucophrys X

White-faced ibis Plegadis chihi X

White-throated swift Aeronautes saxatalis X

Yellow-breasted chat Icteria virens X

Yellow-rumped warbler Dendroica coronata X
78 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

1 Species observed at a time other than in a survey.

TABLE 9. WILDLIFE SPECIES AT THE STM SITE

SPECIES COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME 1987 Survey 2005 Survey 2011 Survey

MAMMALS

Big brown bat1 Eptesicus fuscus

Black bear1 Ursus americanus

Black-tailed jackrabbit Lepus californicus X X

Bushy-tailed woodrat Neotoma cinerea X

Coyote Canis latrans X X X

Deer mouse Peromyscus maniculatus X X

Elk1 Cervus canadensis

Fox squirrel Sciurus niger X

Hoary bat1 Lasiurus cinereus

Long-tailed weasel Mustela frenata X 

Mexican woodrat Neotoma mexicana X X

Mountain cottontail Sylvilagus nuttalli X X X

Mule deer Odocoileus hemionus X X X

Prairie vole Microtus ochrogaster X X

Raccoon Procyon lotor X X X

Red fox Vulpes vulpes X X

Striped skunk Mephitis X

Western harvest mouse Reithrodontomys megalotis X X X

Western spotted skunk Spilogale gracilis X

White-tailed jackrabbit Lepus townsendii X

Yellow-bellied marmot Marmota flaviventris X

REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS

Bull snake Pituophis catenifer X X

Plains garter snake Thamnophis radix X X

Prairie lizard Sceloporus undulatus X

Racer Coluber constrictor X

Six-lined racerunner Cnemidophorus sexlineatus X

Tiger salamander Ambystoma tigrinum X X

Western chorus frog1 Pseudacris triseriata

Western (Prairie) rattlesnake Crotalus viridus X X X

Woodhouse’s toad Bufo woodhousii X
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 79

TABLE 10. WILDLIFE SPECIES AT THE NWTC

SPECIES COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME 2003 Survey 2011 Survey 2016 Survey

BIRDS

American crow Corvus brachyrhynchos X

American goldfinch Spinus tristis X X

American kestrel Falco sparverius X X X

American pipit Anthus rubescens X

American robin Turdus migratorius X X X

American tree sparrow Spizella arborea X

Bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus X

Barn swallow Hirundo rustica X X X

Black-billed magpie Pica hudsonia X X X

Black-capped chickadee Poecile atricapillus X X

Blue-gray gnatcatcher Polioptila caerulea X X

Blue jay Cyanocitta cristata X

Brewer's blackbird Euphagus cyanocephalus X X X

Brewer's sparrow Spizella breweri X

Broad-tailed hummingbird Selasphorus platycercus X X X

Broad-winged hawk Buteo platypterus

Brown-headed cowbird Molothrus ater X X

Bullock's oriole Icterus bullockii X X

Canada goose Branta canadensis X X

Cedar waxwing Bombycilla cedrorum X

Chipping sparrow Spizella passerina X X

Cliff swallow Petrochelidon pyrrhonota X

Common grackle Quiscalus quiscula X X

Common nighthawk Chordeiles minor X X

Common raven Corvus corax X X X

Common snipe Gallinago delicata X

Cooper’s hawk Accipiter cooperii

Dark-eyed junco Junco hyemalis X

Double-crested cormorant Phalacrocorax auritus X X

Downy woodpecker Picoides pubescens X

Eurasian collared-dove Streptopelia decaocto X

European starling Sturnus vulgaris X X X

Ferruginous hawk Buteo regalis X X

Franklin's gull Larus pipixcan X

Golden eagle Aquila chrysaetos X X

Grasshopper sparrow Ammodramus savannarum X X X

Gray catbird Dumetella carolinensis X X

Great blue heron Ardea herodias X X X

Great horned owl Bubo virginianus X X

Green-tailed towhee Pipilo chlorurus X X

Hairy woodpecker Picoides villosus X

Horned lark Eremophila alpestris X X

House finch Carpodacus mexicanus X X X

House wren Troglodytes aedon X

Table 10 continued on page 80
80 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

TABLE 10. WILDLIFE SPECIES AT THE NWTC

SPECIES COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME 2003 Survey 2011 Survey 2016 Survey

BIRDS

Killdeer Charadrius vociferus X X

Lark bunting Calamospiza melanocorys X

Lark sparrow Chondestes grammacus X X

Loggerhead shrike Lanius ludovicianus X

Long-billed curlew Numenius americanus X

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos X X

Merlin Falco columbarius

Mountain bluebird Sialia currucoides X X

Mountain chickadee Poecile gambeli X

Mourning dove Zenaida macroura X X X

Northern flicker Colaptes auratus X X

Northern goshawk Accipiter gentilis

Northern harrier Circus cyaneus X X

Osprey Pandion haliaetus

Peregrine falcon Falco peregrinus X X

Prairie falcon Falco mexicanus X

Red-headed woodpecker Melanerpes erythrocephalus X

Red-tailed hawk Buteo jamaicensis X X X

Red-winged blackbird Agelaius phoeniceus X X X

Rough-legged hawk Buteo lagopus X X

Ruby-crowned kinglet Regulus calendula X

Sandhill crane Grus canadensis X

Savannah sparrow Passerculus sandwichensis X

Say's phoebe Sayornis saya X X X

Sharp-shinned hawk Accipiter striatus

Song sparrow Melospiza melodia X X

Spotted towhee Pipilo maculatus X X

Swainson's hawk Buteo swainsoni X

Townsend’s solitaire Myadestes townsendi X

Tree swallow Tachycineta bicolor X

Turkey vulture Cathartes aura X X

Vesper sparrow Pooecetes gramineus X X X

Western kingbird Tyrannus verticalis X X X

Western meadowlark Sturnella neglecta X X X

Western wood peewee Contopus sordidulus X

Wilson’s snipe Gallinago delicata X

Wilson’s warbler Wilsonia pusilla X

Yellow-rumped warbler Dendroica coronata X

Table 10 continued on page 81
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 81

TABLE 10. WILDLIFE SPECIES AT THE NWTC

SPECIES COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME 2003 Survey 2011 Survey 2016 Survey

MAMMALS

Big brown bat Eptesicus fuscus X X

Black-tailed prairie dog1 Cynomys ludovicianus X

Bobcat1 Felis rufus X

Coyote Canis latrans X X

Deer mouse Peromyscus maniculatus X X

Desert cottontail Sylvilagus audubonii X X

Eastern red bat Lasiurus borealis X X

Elk Cervus canadensis X X

Fringed myotis Myotis thysanodes X X

Hoary bat Lasiurus cinereus X X

Masked shrew Sorex cinereus X X

Meadow vole Microtus pennsylvanicus X X

Mexican woodrat Neotoma mexicana X X

Mountain lion1 Puma concolor X

Mule deer Odocoileus hemionus X X

Myotis bats Myotis sp. X X

Prairie vole Microtus ochrogaster X X

Silver-haired bat Lasionycteris noctivagans X X

Thirteen-lined ground squirrel Spermophilus tridecemlineatus X

Western harvest mouse Reithrodontomys megalotis X X

White-tailed deer1 Odocoileus virginiana X

REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS

Boreal chorus frog Pseudacris maculata X X

Bull snake Pituophis catenifer X X

Northern leopard frog Lithobates pipiens X

Tiger salamander Ambystoma tigrinum X

Western (Prairie) rattlesnake Crotalus viridus X X X

Woodhouse’s toad Bufo woodhousii X X

TERRESTRIAL ARTHROPODS2

Aphrodite fritillary Speyeria aphrodite X

Cabbage white Pieris rapae X

Checkered white Pontia protodice X

Common wood nymph Cercyonis pegala X

Dainty sulphur Nathalis iole X

Gray hairstreak Strymon melinus X

Orange sulphur Colias eurytheme X

Western white Pontia occidentalis X

1 Species observed at a time other than in a survey.

2 Terrestrial arthropod genera of specific concern were only surveyed in 2011 at the NWTC.
82 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

TABLE 11. NREL’S ENVIRONMENTAL PERMITS, REGISTRATIONS, AND NOTIFICATIONS IN 2016

Type Location/ Description Category Issuing 

Agency ID #

Permit or 

Registration 

Status

AST for petroleum 

storage

STM ESIF AST Registration DOPS 19275-1 Completed

AST for petroleum 

storage

STM PDU AST Registration DOPS 2873-2 Completed

AST for petroleum 

storage

STM RSF2 AST Registration DOPS 19211-1 Completed

AST for petroleum 

storage

STM SERF AST Registration DOPS 2873-1 Completed

AST for petroleum 

storage

E85 AST Registration DOPS 2873-4 Completed

Air Laboratory-wide servicing of CFC-containing 

equipment Notification APCD 647 Active

Air STM SERF, 2 CFC-containing stationary sources Registration APCD 647 Active

Air STM FTLB waste gas combustor Permit APCD 99JE0400 Active

Air STM RFHP wood waste boiler Permit APCD 07JE0277 Active

Air STM fugitive dust from construction activities Permit APCD 08JE0889L Active

Air STM RSF 1 diesel-fired standby electrical 

generator

Permit APCD 10JE1400 Active

Air STM RSF 2 diesel-fired standby electrical 

generator

Permit APCD 11JE1303 Active

Air STM FTLB diesel-fired standby electrical generator Permit APCD 10JE1630 Active

Air NWTC Site 4.0 diesel-fired standby electrical 

generator

Permit APCD 10JE1712 Active

Air STM parking garage diesel-fired standby electrical 

generator

Permit APCD 11JE1997 Active

Air STM ESIF diesel-fired standby electrical generator Permit APCD 11JE3542 Active

Air STM ESIF research electrical generator #3 Permit APCD 13JE2829 Active

Air STM IBRF scrubber and baghouse Permit APCD 11JE1798 Active

Air STM ESIF research electrical generator #1 APEN APCD 12JE1734 XP Active

Air STM ESIF research electrical generator #2 APEN APCD 12JE1735 XP Active

APPENDIX C:

2016 ENVIRONMENTAL 

PERMITS, REGISTRATIONS,

AND NOTIFICATIONS 

Table 11 continued on page 83
ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016 83

TABLE 11. NREL’S ENVIRONMENTAL PERMITS, REGISTRATIONS, AND NOTIFICATIONS IN 2016

Type Location/ Description Category Issuing 

Agency ID #

Permit or 

Registration 

Status

Air STM IBRF standby electrical generator APEN APCD 13JE2276 XP Active

Air NWTC STL standby electrical generator APEN APCD 13JE2271 XP Active

Air NWTC Building 251 standby electrical generator APEN APCD 13JE2272 XP Active

Air NWTC Composites Manufacturing Education and 

Technology facility APEN APCD 16JE0934 Active

Alcohol STM IBRF alcohol fuel production Permit TTB AFP-CO-00255 Active

Alcohol STM tax-free alcohol use Permit TTB TF-CO-0331 Active

Drinking water 

system NWTC drinking water system ID number Registration WQCD CO0230860 In Effect; Does Not Expire

Groundwater well STM FTLB groundwater monitoring well MW-FTLB-1 Permit DWR 301322 Active

Groundwater well STM FTLB groundwater monitoring well MW-FTLB-2 Permit DWR 301323 Active

Groundwater well STM FTLB groundwater monitoring well MW-FTLB-3 Permit DWR 301324 Active

Hazardous materials STM WHF hazardous material storage and use permit Permit WMFR 11408 Active

Hazardous materials STM SERF hazardous material storage and use permit Permit WMFR 11412 Active

Hazardous materials STM S&TF hazardous material storage and use permit Permit WMFR 11413 Active

Hazardous materials STM FTLB hazardous material storage and use permit Permit WMFR 11409 Active

Hazardous materials STM IBRF hazardous material storage and use permit Permit WMFR 11410 Active

Hazardous materials STM Shipping and Receiving hazardous material 

storage and use permit Permit WMFR 11411 Active

Hazardous materials DWOP building 16 hazardous material storage and 

use permit Permit WMFR 11407 Active

Hazardous materials ReFUEL hazardous material storage and use permit Permit Denver Fire 

Department 165636 Active

Hazardous waste DWOP RCRA hazardous waste generator status 

EPA ID Notification HMWMD CO4890000017 Completed

Hazardous waste STM RCRA hazardous waste generator status EPA ID Notification HMWMD CO3890090076 Completed

Hazardous waste JSF RCRA hazardous waste generator status EPA ID Notification HMWMD COD980805162 Completed

Hazardous waste NWTC RCRA hazardous waste generator status 

EPA ID Notification HMWMD COD983802448 Completed

Hazardous waste ReFUEL RCRA hazardous waste generator status 

EPA ID Notification HMWMD COR000207563 Completed

Historic registration STM amphitheater Registration NPS 93000378 In effect; does 

not expire

Historic registration STM stone bunker Registration NPS 93000379 In effect; does 

not expire

Stormwater STM electrical upgrade project Permit EPA COR12B06F Terminated

Stormwater STM SERF & STF Landscape Improvements/DWP Safety 

Enhancements (FTLB) Permit EPA COR12AW4F Active
84 ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE REPORT 2016

Acronyms used in the table

APCD – Air Pollution Control Division of Colorado Department of Public Health and the Environment (CDPHE)

APEN – Air Pollutant Emission Notice

AST – Aboveground Storage Tank

CFC – Chlorofluorocarbon

DFD – Denver Fire Department

DOPS – Division of Oil and Public Safety of the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment

DWOP – Denver West Office Park

DWR – Division of Water Resources

EPA – Environmental Protection Agency

ESIF – Energy Systems Integration Facility

FTLB – Field Test Laboratory Building

HMWMD – Hazardous Materials and Waste Management Division of CDPHE

IBRF – Integrated Biorefinery Research Facility

NPS – National Park Service of the U.S. Department of the Interior

NWTC – National Wind Technology Center

PDU – Process Development Unit

RCRA – Resource Conservation and Recovery Act

ReFUEL – Renewable Fuels and Lubricants Research Laboratory

RFHP – Renewable Fuel Heat Plant

RSF – Research Support Facility

S&TF – Science and Technology Facility

SERF – Solar Energy Research Facility

STM – South Table Mountain

TTB – Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau of the U.S. Department of the Treasury

WHF – Waste Handling Facility

WMFR – West Metro Fire Rescue

WQCD – Water Quality Control Division of CDPHE

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