The National Laboratory of the Rockies is hosting a collegiate Technology Recycling and Repurposing (T-ReX) Competition, challenging students to find creative yet practical ways to recycle or repurpose retired energy components and materials. Student teams interested in competing must apply by September 30, 2026.
The competition is designed to increase student awareness and knowledge about:
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Practical solutions that help communities and project owners meet the challenges of retiring energy projects while ensuring land is used responsibly
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Solutions to local government concerns related to unexpected costs when energy projects reach the end of their service period by encouraging better planning from the start
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The benefits of recycling and repurposing energy equipment instead of sending it to landfills.
The T-ReX competition comprises two sequential phases, one each in the fall and spring semesters.
During Phase 1: Project Conception, teams propose an idea for recycling or repurposing specific technology parts or materials. During the fall semester, they also complete a Community Connections Challenge by engaging with energy companies and local communities to understand the challenges they face with retiring energy projects. Teams invited to continue into Phase 2 will be chosen based on a set of criteria related to the creativity, practicality, and safety of their work in Phase 1.
During Phase 2: Design Execution, selected teams that choose to continue with the competition must first complete safety requirements. Then, they have the option to select parts and materials from available energy technologies, which will be shipped to them. During the spring semester, they transform their ideas into practical, hands-on projects that enhance knowledge of real-world applications for reuse. Again, teams simultaneously complete a Community Connections Challenge, implementing an outreach activity to share the importance of recycling or repurposing energy equipment. Teams present their project results at the final event to judges, who will select and announce winners.