Creating New Opportunities Through Battery Reuse

Transforming retired hybrid batteries into opportunities for education, workforce training, and
community resilience across Puerto Rico.

About the TECRE initiative

TECRE is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing renewable energy, battery repurposing, workforce development, and community resilience in Puerto Rico. Through research, education, and industry collaboration, TECRE serves as a platform for developing innovative energy solutions that create lasting environmental and economic impact.

Our Mission

Our mission is to empower Puerto Rico through experiential education, renewable energy innovation, and circular battery economy initiatives. We engage students, researchers, volunteers, and industry partners in projects that strengthen energy resilience, expand workforce opportunities, and accelerate sustainable technology development.

Our Vision

We envision Puerto Rico as a global leader in community energy resilience and circular battery innovation, where education, technology, and local empowerment work together to build a more sustainable future.

From Research to Community Impact

Before founding TECRE, Dr. Eugene S. Smotkin founded NuVant Systems, Inc. in Northwest Indiana. Between 2002 and 2013, NuVant received support through Department of Defense and Department of Energy research programs, together with congressionally directed appropriations championed by Congressman Peter J. Visclosky.

Dr. Smotkin committed to turning that investment into lasting economic value—and NuVant delivered. The company developed electrochemical technologies used by universities, national laboratories, and industries worldwide while creating skilled jobs for scientists, engineers, technicians, manufacturing specialists, and administrative professionals. Many of these became some of the highest-paying technical jobs in the region, demonstrating how investment in innovation can strengthen both the economy and the workforce.

In recognition of these accomplishments, Congressman Visclosky entered a tribute to Dr. Smotkin into the United States Congressional Record. The official Congressional Record Index also includes a separate entry recognizing his induction as a Fellow of the Society of Innovators of Northwest Indiana.

Today, TECRE is applying the same philosophy in Puerto Rico. While the technologies and communities are different, the goal remains the same: create skilled local jobs, strengthen communities, and build an economy where the benefits remain in Puerto Rico.