Research performed to understand specific features and limitations of technology can result in advancements towards commercialization as well as more realistic assessments of technologies energy savings potential. This premise can be applied to both new and existing technologies in a wide variety of industrial sectors. This presentation discusses one example, near limit combustion dynamics research being conducted at LBNL in collaboration with gas turbine OEMs. Utilizing the LBNL-developed Low Swirl Burner technology; combustion dynamics are being investigated with two fuels, methane and a syngas surrogate high hydrogen blend.  Developing an understanding of the location and driver of these dynamics has enabled an engineering solution to alleviate their impact, mitigating a barrier to commercialization. Through collaboration with gas turbine OEMs, LBNL researchers have also obtained insights into the technological, economic, and operability concerns of the combustion systems industry, information that can be utilized when determining the energy savings potential of specific applications.