IREC began its R+D+I activities in January 2009​. IREC was created to contribute to the objective of creating a more sustainable future for energy usage and consumption, keeping in mind the economic competitiveness and providing society with the maximum level of energy security.​

IREC is a reference institution for Energy Research in Catalonia, Spain and the EU, and is a recognized institution by the Catalonia Government as both Basic Research and Industry oriented through Knowledge and Technology Transfer (KTT). Its areas of expertise are Energy and Environment, Energy Storage and Smart Energy Management.