OpenEI Energy Data Platform for Renewable Resources and Sustainability Research

OpenEI is a free, open-source platform from the National Laboratory of the Rockies (formerly NREL) providing energy data, tools and resources to support renewable energy research and policy.

Best for
Energy Data Access
Key capability
Open Data Repository
OpenEI screenshot showing the platform dashboard, tools, and core workflow

What is OpenEI?

OpenEI (Open Energy Information) is a free, open-source platform developed by the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Laboratory of the Rockies, formerly the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). It provides access to a repository of energy-related data, tools and resources for researchers, policymakers, businesses and the public.

OpenEI screenshot showing the platform dashboard, tools, and core workflow

Key features of OpenEI

OpenEI offers comprehensive energy datasets, interactive maps, modeling tools, and community collaboration features to support energy research, policy analysis, and decision-making.

Open Data Repository

Extensive collection of energy datasets covering solar, wind, geothermal, and other renewable sources.

Interactive Maps

Visualize energy resources and infrastructure geographically to support spatial analysis.

Energy Modeling Tools

Integrated tools for energy system modeling, forecasting, and scenario planning.

Community Collaboration

Platform supports user contributions, data sharing, and collaborative projects.

API Access

Developers can access data programmatically via APIs for integration into custom applications.

Pros and cons of OpenEI

Pros

  • Comprehensive and authoritative energy data
  • Free and open access to all resources
  • Supports collaboration among energy professionals
  • Includes interactive visualization and modeling tools

Cons

  • Primarily focused on U.S. energy data
  • Interface can be complex for casual users

Key use cases for OpenEI

Energy Data Access

Provides open access to extensive datasets related to energy production, consumption, and resources.

Renewable Energy Research

Supports researchers and policymakers with data and tools to analyze renewable energy technologies and impacts.

Energy Modeling and Analysis

Offers tools and datasets for modeling energy systems, forecasting, and scenario analysis.

Policy Development Support

Assists government and organizations in developing energy policies based on reliable data.

Community and Collaboration

Facilitates collaboration among energy professionals, researchers, and the public through shared data and resources.

How OpenEI works

  1. 1

    Explore Data

    Users can browse and search a wide range of energy datasets including renewable resources, consumption, and infrastructure.

  2. 2

    Use Tools

    Access modeling and analysis tools integrated into the platform to simulate energy scenarios.

  3. 3

    Collaborate

    Engage with the energy community by sharing data, contributing to projects, and accessing shared resources.

Who is using OpenEI

Energy researchers
Policy makers
Sustainability consultants
Renewable energy developers
Academic institutions

OpenEI pricing

Free

$0

Full access to all datasets, tools, and community features without charge.

Plans and prices are as published by the vendor and can change. Check the official site before you buy. Open the pricing page (opens in a new tab)

Frequently asked questions about OpenEI

Yes, OpenEI is completely free and open to the public.

OpenEI is maintained by the National Laboratory of the Rockies, formerly NREL, part of the U.S. Department of Energy.

Yes, users can contribute datasets and collaborate with the community.

Data includes renewable energy resources, energy consumption, infrastructure, and modeling datasets.

This tool is designed to help users accomplish its core tasks more efficiently. It is typically used by individuals or teams looking to improve productivity and workflow.

It depends on your specific needs and how you plan to use the tool. The official website and documentation are the best sources for the latest details.

Data handling and security practices vary by provider. Review the official privacy policy to understand how your data is stored and used.

Conclusion

Energy datasets are the core: users browse and search data on renewable resources, energy consumption and infrastructure, with solar, wind and geothermal among the covered sources. Interactive maps show energy resources and infrastructure geographically to support spatial analysis. Integrated tools cover energy system modeling, forecasting and scenario planning. Developers can also access data programmatically via APIs for custom applications.

Users can contribute datasets and collaborate on shared projects with the community. The resource is aimed at energy researchers, policy makers and renewable energy developers. Access is completely free and open to the public.

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