§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.
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