§ 18611. Sense of Congress on accelerating energy innovation

It is the sense of Congress that—

• (1) although important progress has been made in cost reduction and deployment of clean energy technologies, accelerating clean energy innovation will help meet critical competitiveness, energy security, and environmental goals;
• (2) accelerating the pace of clean energy innovation in the United States calls for—
  • (A) supporting existing research and development programs at the Department and the world-class National Laboratories;
  • (B) exploring and developing new pathways for innovators, investors, and decision-makers to leverage the resources of the Department for addressing the challenges and comparative strengths of geographic regions; and
  • (C) recognizing the financial constraints of the Department, regularly reviewing clean energy programs to ensure that taxpayer investments are maximized;
• (3) the energy supply, demand, policies, markets, and resource options of the United States vary by geographic region;
• (4) a regional approach to innovation can bridge the gaps between local talent, institutions, and industries to identify opportunities and convert United States investment into domestic companies; and
• (5) Congress, the Secretary, and energy industry participants should advance efforts that promote international, domestic, and regional cooperation on the research and development of energy innovations that—
  • (A) provide clean, affordable, and reliable energy for everyone;
  • (B) promote economic growth;
  • (C) are critical for energy security; and
  • (D) are sustainable without government support.