We face an unprecedented global energy challenge. Demand for energy is projected to double within the next few decades, and to continue to grow through the end of the century. With this in mind, RASEI, a joint institute between CU Boulder and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), seeks to expedite solutions by advancing renewable energy science, engineering and analysis through research, education and industry partnerships. Some of the unique research pioneered by RASEI involves advanced biofuels, grid innovation and nanotechnology for energy capture, among other topics.