§ 5555. Research and development program

• (a) The Chairman shall initiate a research and development program for the purpose of resolving the major technical problems inhibiting commercial utilization of solar energy in the United States.
• (b) In connection with or as a part of such program, the Chairman shall—
  • (1) conduct, encourage, and promote scientific research and studies to develop effective and economical processes and equipment for the purpose of utilizing solar energy in an acceptable manner for beneficial uses;
  • (2) carry out systems, economic, social, and environmental studies to provide a basis for research, development and demonstration planning and phasing; and
  • (3) perform or cause to be performed technology assessments relevant to the utilization of solar energy.
• (c) The specific solar energy technologies to be addressed or dealt with in the program shall include—
  • (1) direct solar heat as a source for industrial processes, including the utilization of low-level heat for process and other industrial purposes;
  • (2) thermal energy conversion, and other methods, for the generation of electricity and the production of chemical fuels;
  • (3) the conversion of cellulose and other organic materials (including wastes) to useful energy or fuels;
  • (4) photovoltaic and other direct conversion processes;
  • (5) sea thermal gradient conversion;
  • (6) windpower conversion;
  • (7) solar heating and cooling of housing and of commercial and public buildings; and
  • (8) energy storage.