Summer 2027 Clean Energy Business Intern

About the Role

NRDC (the Natural Resources Defense Council) is seeking a graduate intern for its Summer 2027 Clean Energy Business program. This intern will support NRDC's Center for Campaigns & Organizing, specifically its partner E2 (Economy+Environment) and the Cleantech Leaders Roundtable (CTLR). The intern will report into the Senior Director of Business Outreach & Engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Produce a 2027 Energy Business Trends series, comparing solar, geothermal, and battery storage sectors against the oil and gas industry.
• Complete a focused case study on conventional natural gas versus renewable natural gas (RNG).
• Track capital, deal flow, project pipelines, jobs, and supply chains in the clean energy sectors.
• Analyze how rising electricity demand (data centers, new manufacturing), changing federal tax credit timelines, and state policy are reshaping competition in the energy economy.
• Gain direct exposure to senior industry leaders and learn how market data informs executive and policymaker decisions.
• Key deliverables may include sector trend briefs, a comparative market dashboard, an RNG vs. natural gas business case analysis, executive discussion guides, and a capstone report with growth, partnership, and policy recommendations for clean energy leaders.
• Support ongoing projects and priorities for E2 and CTLR.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Must be currently enrolled in a graduate program.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently.
• Project management and/or problem-solving skills.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Research and/or data analysis skills.
• Commitment to NRDC’s mission, values, and DEI principles.

Details

• Duration: 10 weeks
• Commitment: 35 hours/week
• Work Model: Hybrid (3 days/week in office)
• Office Locations: New York, Chicago, or Washington, DC
• Stipend: $10,000.00, paid bi-weekly.

How to Apply

• Submit a resume.
• Submit a cover letter highlighting interest in NRDC and availability for summer sessions.
• Application reviews begin the week of October 26. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
• Apply via the 'Apply for this job online’ link on the NRDC Careers Page.

Note: Applications are only accepted via iCIMS and must include the requested documents for consideration.