Research to accelerate rapid, affordable, and effective transitions to net-zero carbon energy systems
The ZERO Lab (Zero-carbon Energy systems Research and Optimization Laboratory) improves and applies optimization-based macro-energy systems models to evaluate low-carbon energy technologies, guide investment and research in innovative decarbonization solutions, and generate insights to improve energy and climate policy and planning.
Prof. Jesse D. Jenkins is the Principal Investigator.
Our Programs
Building Tools for Decision Support
ZERO Lab develops cutting-edge optimization-based models and improved decision support methods to understand complex macro-scale energy systems and their transitions to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. This includes the best-in-class open-source GenX electricity system planning model and novel methods to model macro-energy systems with unprecedented resolution.
Evaluating Technologies for Decarbonization
ZERO Lab specializes in using optimization-based models of macro-scale energy systems to evaluate emerging low-carbon energy technologies, optimize their design, and identify key cost and performance improvements necessary for these technologies to scale for meaningful impact in future energy systems. Research findings provide practical insights to guide strategic planning, R&D priorities, market valuation, investment decisions, and policy engagement.
Guiding Energy Transitions
ZERO Lab applies novel modeling tools to provide granular, practical insights for policy makers, planners, and stakeholders navigating transitions to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. This includes the influential Net-Zero America study, REPEAT Project, and timely and influential studies evaluating key policy options.
Publications
In the News
To Cut Emissions to Zero, U.S. Needs to Make Big Changes in Next 10 Years
Read MoreMotivated to decarbonize energy systems: Jenkins speaks out on energy transitions
Read MoreBig but affordable effort needed for America to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, Princeton study shows
Read MoreBiden wants the U.S. to stop contributing to climate change by 2050. Here’s what that would actually take.
Read MoreJOIN ZERO LAB
Prof. Jenkins admits ~2 graduate students each year to pursue a doctoral degree in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. Applications are due December 1st and all candidates are evaluated through a competitive central pool. He also co-supervises students admitted to the School of Public and International Affairs’ Program in Science, Technology & Environmental Policy. After admission, graduate students in engineering in ZERO Lab also often apply for the HMEI-STEP Graduate Fellowship Program, which enables Ph.D. candidates in science, engineering and other academic disciplines to explore the environmental policy dimension of their doctoral research. Contact Prof. Jenkins to explore which program might be the best fit for you.
Undergraduates at Princeton should contact Prof. Jenkins to explore undergraduate research opportunities, including summer internships, independent study and junior paper opportunities, and senior thesis research.
ZERO Lab is also currently searching for one or more postdoctoral researchers (or more senior scholars) focused on applied operations research and/or applied energy systems modeling.