FAQ

RETI is funded through the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Regional Innovation Engines program, which supports the development of advanced, economically viable energy solutions and a broader regional innovation ecosystem. Financial support and contributions are also coming from RETI’s network of partners including industry, state government, and private organizations.

RETI’s mission is to lay the groundwork for resilient energy supply and grid infrastructure that securely and reliably balances power supply and demand, with a focus on industrial-aligned innovation.

RETI is centered in the heart of Appalachia, uniting partners across West Virginia and western Pennsylvania (WV/wPA) – the second largest energy-producing region in the U.S. and a long-standing industrial hub.

RETI concentrates on four core areas: Grid Resilience (digital twins, machine learning decision tools, and cyber-secure control systems); Process Modifications (novel catalysts and reactor design to cut energy use in manufacturing); New Feedstocks (hydrogen for steel production and waste-plastic conversion via microwave catalysis); and Energy Management (grid-scale storage, solid oxide power conversion, and microgrid deployment).

RETI is led by West Virginia University, in partnership with the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University, and the U.S. Research Impact Alliance, as well as more than 60 regional and national partners spanning research, workforce development, capital, nonprofits, and government.

RETI is led by CEO Dr. Erienne Olesh, supported by an Advisory Board, Legal Counsel, Marketing and Project Management teams, and a Governance Board. The leadership team also includes a Chief Commercialization Officer (Reed McManigle), Chief Technology Officer (Dr. Sam Taylor), Chief Workforce Officer (Dr. Liz Vitullo), Chief Engagement Officer (Dr. Michelle Taylor), and a Director of Policy (Dr. Valerie Karplus).

Yes. As part of its innovation ecosystem, RETI supports startup-driven deployment of new technologies – from high-speed grid modeling tools to AI-accelerated catalyst discovery – and works with venture and capital partners across the region to help translate research into commercial impact.

Organizations, researchers, and companies interested in partnering with RETI can reach out through the “Get in Touch” contact form on the RETI website, or connect via RETI’s LinkedIn page.

The RETI website’s News Updates and Events pages feature the latest consortium news, partner milestones, and upcoming events such as regional innovation showcases and technology discovery days.

You can contact RETI using the contact form on the website’s homepage. Submissions are used only to respond to inquiries and are not shared with third parties.

Yes. RETI is one of the regional consortia established under the National Science Foundation’s Regional Innovation Engines program, which funds place-based innovation ecosystems across the United States.