Aiken Celebrates the Appointment of Johney Green Jr. as New Director of Savannah River National Laboratory

Aiken Welcomes New Leadership at Savannah River National Laboratory

Exciting news is making waves in Aiken as the Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) prepares to welcome Johney Green Jr. as its new laboratory director. Currently serving as the associate laboratory director at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), Johney’s experience and expertise are set to bring fresh perspectives to the laboratory, which operates with an impressive annual budget of about $400 million.

Who is Johney Green Jr.?

Johney Green Jr. has a remarkable background in mechanical and thermal engineering, making his transition to the role at SRNL an exciting step forward for both him and the laboratory. At NREL, he has been leading a diverse range of programs focused on renewable energy, including wind, water, geothermal, and advanced manufacturing. With over $300 million in research funding and a dedicated workforce of around 750, he has successfully overseen initiatives that propel innovation in energy efficiency and sustainable transportation.

Green’s Impact at NREL

During his tenure at NREL, Johney transformed its wind site into the Flatirons Campus, evolving it from a single-program site into a comprehensive research campus where multiple energy programs thrive. His visionary leadership helped establish a solid platform for the Department of Energy’s Advanced Research on Integrated Energy Systems initiative, indicating a commitment to tackling the future of energy consumption.

Welcoming Johney to Aiken

“We are thrilled to have Johney become the new leader of SRNL,” expressed Juan Alvarez, the executive vice president for national laboratory management and operations at Battelle. “His experience in the field assures us that he is the right person to lead this exceptional national asset and drive impactful solutions across the board—environmental, energy, and security challenges, to name a few.”

The Role of SRNL

The Savannah River National Laboratory is more than just a research facility; it’s a critical institution for several governmental programs including the Department of Energy’s Environmental Management and Legacy Management offices and the National Nuclear Security Administration’s Weapons and Nonproliferation efforts. It plays a vital role in developing technologies that keep our nation secure, while also working on solutions for our environment and energy needs.

Preparing for New Challenges

As Johney steps into his new role, he expressed excitement about the potential for growth and innovation at SRNL. “I am honored and humbled by the opportunity to join the SRNL community and work alongside our dedicated staff and regional university partners,” he said. His aim is to drive innovation and enhance the laboratory’s capabilities, ultimately expanding its contributions to national security and energy resilience for the benefit of our nation.

A Legacy of Leadership

Before his time at NREL, Green held significant leadership roles at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory. He directed the Energy and Transportation Science Division and made noteworthy advances in building technologies, sustainable manufacturing processes, and transportation analysis. His collaboration with the auto industry has led to exceptional achievements in emission reductions and advanced diesel engine research.

A Bright Future Ahead

Johney Green’s impressive credentials include being a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and serving on various advisory boards. He has also received accolades and holds two U.S. patents in combustion science—demonstrating a commitment to innovation and excellence that will surely benefit SRNL and the broader community.

As Aiken rolls out the welcome mat for Johney Green Jr., the anticipation of new breakthroughs and renewed focus on pressing challenges resonates through the laboratory and beyond. Here’s to a future filled with innovation and impactful solutions!