42 U.S.C. § 18611 — Sense of Congress on accelerating energy innovation

This whole section is a "sense of Congress" — it states Congress's opinion, not a binding rule that anyone must follow. (1) Congress believes that although real progress has been made in cutting the cost of clean energy and putting it to use, speeding up clean energy innovation will still help meet important goals for competitiveness, energy security, and the environment. (2) Congress believes that speeding up clean energy innovation in the United States calls for: (A) supporting the Department's existing research and development programs and the world-class National Laboratories; (B) finding and building new ways for innovators, investors, and decision-makers to use the Department's resources to address the different challenges and strengths of different regions; and (C) recognizing that the Department's money is limited, and regularly reviewing clean energy programs to make sure taxpayer investments are used well. (3) Congress believes that energy supply, demand, policy, markets, and resource options differ from region to region across the United States. (4) Congress believes a regional approach to innovation can connect local talent, institutions, and industries, helping turn U.S. investment into domestic companies. (5) Congress believes that Congress itself, the Secretary, and energy industry participants should work together — internationally, domestically, and regionally — on research and development of energy innovations that: (A) provide clean, affordable, reliable energy for everyone; (B) promote economic growth; (C) are important for energy security; and (D) can keep going without government support.