NORC has emerged as a leader in conducting high-quality survey research related to energy and environmental concerns, creating a foundation for clients to make more informed, accurate policy decisions with respect to these crucial issues.

In the area of energy, NORC has worked most recently with the Energy Information Administration (EIA) to conduct two national surveys of energy consumption: the Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS) and the Commercial Buildings Energy Consumption Survey (CBECS). NORC conducted the RECS in 2005 and has been tasked with conducting the next RECS in 2010, and NORC conducted the most recent CBECS in 2007. Both of these surveys are critically important to informing energy policy as each is the only reliable source of statistics at the national level for energy consumption in these building types. 

In the area of environmental effects, NORC is participating in the National Children's Study, which is the largest effort of its kind ever undertaken.  Previous environmental work includes supporting the mission of the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry and conducting a twin study for the National Institute of Mental Health to disentangle genetic from environmental factors affecting mental health.