USC Subchapter VIII

USC Subchapter VIII
in effect

42 U.S.C. § 17331 United States assistance for developing countries

(a) Assistance authorizedThe Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development shall support policies and programs in developing countries that promote clean and efficient energy technologies—(1) to produce the necessary market conditions for the private sector delivery of energy and environmental management services; (2) to create an environment that is conducive to accepting clean and efficient energy technologies that support the overall purpose of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, including—(A) improving policy, legal, and regulatory frameworks; (B) increasing institutional abilities to provide energy and environmental management services; and (C) increasing public awareness and participation in the decision-making of delivering energy and environmental management services; and (3) to promote the use of American-made clean and efficient energy technologies, products, and energy and environmental management services. (b) ReportThe Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees an annual report on the implementation of this section for each of the fiscal years 2008 through 2012. (c) Authorization of appropriationsTo carry out this section, there are authorized to be appropriated to the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development $200,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2008 through 2012.

42 U.S.C. § 17332 United States exports and outreach programs for India, China, and other countries

(a) Assistance authorizedThe Secretary of Commerce shall direct the United States and Foreign Commercial Service to expand or create a corps of the Foreign Commercial Service officers to promote United States exports in clean and efficient energy technologies and build the capacity of government officials in India, China, and any other country the Secretary of Commerce determines appropriate, to become more familiar with the available technologies—(1) by assigning or training Foreign Commercial Service attachés, who have expertise in clean and efficient energy technologies from the United States, to embark on business development and outreach efforts to such countries; and (2) by deploying the attachés described in paragraph (1) to educate provincial, state, and local government officials in such countries on the variety of United States-based technologies in clean and efficient energy technologies for the purposes of promoting United States exports and reducing global greenhouse gas emissions. (b) ReportThe Secretary of Commerce shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees an annual report on the implementation of this section for each of the fiscal years 2008 through 2012. (c) Authorization of appropriationsTo carry out this section, there are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Commerce such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 2008 through 2012.

42 U.S.C. § 17333 United States trade missions to encourage private sector trade and investment

(a) Assistance authorizedThe Secretary of Commerce shall direct the International Trade Administration to expand or create trade missions to and from the United States to encourage private sector trade and investment in clean and efficient energy technologies—(1) by organizing and facilitating trade missions to foreign countries and by matching United States private sector companies with opportunities in foreign markets so that clean and efficient energy technologies can help to combat increases in global greenhouse gas emissions; and (2) by creating reverse trade missions in which the Department of Commerce facilitates the meeting of foreign private and public sector organizations with private sector companies in the United States for the purpose of showcasing clean and efficient energy technologies in use or in development that could be exported to other countries. (b) ReportThe Secretary of Commerce shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees an annual report on the implementation of this section for each of the fiscal years 2008 through 2012. (c) Authorization of appropriationsTo carry out this section, there are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Commerce such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 2008 through 2012.

42 U.S.C. § 17334 Actions by United States International Development Finance Corporation

(a) Sense of CongressIt is the sense of Congress that the United States International Development Finance Corporation should promote greater investment in clean and efficient energy technologies by—(1) proactively reaching out to United States companies that are interested in investing in clean and efficient energy technologies in countries that are significant contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions; (2) giving preferential treatment to the evaluation and awarding of projects that involve the investment or utilization of clean and efficient energy technologies; and (3) providing greater flexibility in supporting projects that involve the investment or utilization of clean and efficient energy technologies, including financing, insurance, and other assistance. (b) ReportThe United States International Development Finance Corporation shall include in its annual report required under section 9653 of title 22—(1) a description of the activities carried out to implement this section; or (2) if the Corporation did not carry out any activities to implement this section, an explanation of the reasons therefor.

42 U.S.C. § 17335 Actions by United States Trade and Development Agency

(a) Assistance authorizedThe Director of the Trade and Development Agency shall establish or support policies that—(1) proactively seek opportunities to fund projects that involve the utilization of clean and efficient energy technologies, including in trade capacity building and capital investment projects; (2) where appropriate, advance the utilization of clean and efficient energy technologies, particularly to countries that have the potential for significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions; and (3) recruit and retain individuals with appropriate expertise or experience in clean, renewable, and efficient energy technologies to identify and evaluate opportunities for projects that involve clean and efficient energy technologies and services. (b) ReportThe President shall include in the annual report on the activities of the Trade and Development Agency required under section 2421(d) of title 22 a description of the activities carried out to implement this section.

42 U.S.C. § 17336 Deployment of international clean and efficient energy technologies and investment in global energy markets

(a) Task Force(1) EstablishmentNot later than 90 days after December 19, 2007, the President shall establish a Task Force on International Cooperation for Clean and Efficient Energy Technologies (in this section referred to as the “Task Force”). (2) CompositionThe Task Force shall be composed of representatives, appointed by the head of the respective Federal department or agency, of—(A) the Council on Environmental Quality; (B) the Department of Energy; (C) the Department of Commerce; (D) the Department of the Treasury; (E) the Department of State; (F) the Environmental Protection Agency; (G) the United States Agency for International Development; (H) the Export-Import Bank of the United States; (I) the United States International Development Finance Corporation; (J) the Trade and Development Agency; (K) the Small Business Administration; (L) the Office of the United States Trade Representative; and (M) other Federal departments and agencies, as determined by the President. (3) ChairpersonThe President shall designate a Chairperson or Co-Chairpersons of the Task Force. (4) DutiesThe Task Force—(A) shall develop and assist in the implementation of the strategy required under subsection (c); and (B)(i) shall analyze technology, policy, and market opportunities for the development, demonstration, and deployment of clean and efficient energy technologies on an international basis; and (ii) shall examine relevant trade, tax, finance, international, and other policy issues to assess which policies, in the United States and in developing countries, would help open markets and improve the export of clean and efficient energy technologies from the United States. (5) TerminationThe Task Force, including any working group established by the Task Force pursuant to subsection (b), shall terminate 12 years after December 19, 2007. (b) Working groups(1) EstablishmentThe Task Force—(A) shall establish an Interagency Working Group on the Export of Clean and Efficient Energy Technologies (in this section referred to as the “Interagency Working Group”); and (B) may establish other working groups as may be necessary to carry out this section. (2) CompositionThe Interagency Working Group shall be composed of—(A) the Secretary of Energy, the Secretary of Commerce, and the Secretary of State, who shall serve as Co-Chairpersons of the Interagency Working Group; and (B) other members, as determined by the Chairperson or Co-Chairpersons of the Task Force. (3) DutiesThe Interagency Working Group shall coordinate the resources and relevant programs of the Department of Energy, the Department of Commerce, the Department of State, and other relevant Federal departments and agencies to support the export of clean and efficient energy technologies developed or demonstrated in the United States to other countries and the deployment of such clean and efficient energy technologies in such other countries. (4) Interagency CenterThe Interagency Working Group—(A) shall establish an Interagency Center on the Export of Clean and Efficient Energy Technologies (in this section referred to as the “Interagency Center”) to assist the Interagency Working Group in carrying out its duties required under paragraph (3); and (B) shall locate the Interagency Center at a site agreed upon by the Co-Chairpersons of the Interagency Working Group, with the approval of the Chairperson or Co-Chairpersons of the Task Force. (c) Strategy(1) In generalNot later than 1 year after December 19, 2007, the Task Force shall develop and submit to the President and the appropriate congressional committees a strategy to—(A) support the development and implementation of programs, policies, and initiatives in developing countries to promote the adoption and deployment of clean and efficient energy technologies, with an emphasis on those developing countries that are expected to experience the most significant growth in energy production and use over the next 20 years; (B) open and expand clean and efficient energy technology markets and facilitate the export of clean and efficient energy technologies to developing countries, in a manner consistent with United States obligations as a member of the World Trade Organization; (C) integrate into the foreign policy objectives of the United States the promotion of—(i) the deployment of clean and efficient energy technologies and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in developing countries; and (ii) the export of clean and efficient energy technologies; and (D) develop financial mechanisms and instruments, including securities that mitigate the political and foreign exchange risks of uses that are consistent with the foreign policy objectives of the United States by combining the private sector market and government enhancements, that—(i) are cost-effective; and (ii) facilitate private capital investment in clean and efficient energy technology projects in developing countries. (2) UpdatesNot later than 3 years after the date of submission of the strategy under paragraph (1), and every 3 years thereafter, the Task Force shall update the strategy in accordance with the requirements of paragraph (1). (d) Report(1) In generalNot later than 3 years after the date of submission of the strategy under subsection (c)(1), and every 3 years thereafter, the President shall transmit to the appropriate congressional committees a report on the implementation of this section for the prior 3-year period. (2) Matters to be includedThe report required under paragraph (1) shall include the following:(A) The update of the strategy required under subsection (c)(2) and a description of the actions taken by the Task Force to assist in the implementation of the strategy. (B) A description of actions taken by the Task Force to carry out the duties required under subsection (a)(4)(B). (C) A description of assistance provided under this section. (D) The results of programs, projects, and activities carried out under this section. (E) A description of priorities for promoting the diffusion and adoption of clean and efficient energy technologies and strategies in developing countries, taking into account economic and security interests of the United States and opportunities for the export of technology of the United States. (F) Recommendations to the heads of appropriate Federal departments and agencies on methods to streamline Federal programs and policies to improve the role of such Federal departments and agencies in the development, demonstration, and deployment of clean and efficient energy technologies on an international basis. (G) Strategies to integrate representatives of the private sector and other interested groups on the export and deployment of clean and efficient energy technologies. (H) A description of programs to disseminate information to the private sector and the public on clean and efficient energy technologies and opportunities to transfer such clean and efficient energy technologies. (e) Authorization of appropriationsThere are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2020.

42 U.S.C. § 17337 United States-Israel energy cooperation

(a) FindingsCongress finds that—(1) it is in the highest national security interests of the United States to develop covered energy sources; (2) the State of Israel is a steadfast ally of the United States; (3) the special relationship between the United States and Israel is manifested in a variety of cooperative scientific research and development programs, such as—(A) the United States-Israel Binational Science Foundation; and (B) the United States-Israel Binational Industrial Research and Development Foundation; (4) those programs have made possible—(A) many scientific, technological, and commercial breakthroughs in the fields of life sciences, medicine, bioengineering, agriculture, biotechnology, communications, and others; and (B) significant contributions to the development of renewable energy and energy efficiency through the established programs of the United States-Israel Binational Industrial Research and Development Foundation and the United States-Israel Binational Science Foundation; (5) on February 1, 1996, the Secretary of Energy (referred to in this section as the “Secretary”) and the Israeli Minister of Energy and Infrastructure signed an agreement to establish a framework for collaboration between the United States and Israel in energy research and development activities; (6) Israeli scientists and engineers are at the forefront of research and development in the field of covered energy sources; (7) enhanced cooperation between the United States and Israel for the purpose of research and development of covered energy sources would be in the national interests of both countries; (8) United States-Israel energy cooperation and the development of natural resources by Israel are in the strategic interest of the United States; (9) Israel is a strategic partner of the United States in water technology; (10) the United States can play a role in assisting Israel with regional safety and security issues; (11) the National Science Foundation of the United States, to the extent consistent with the National Science Foundation’s mission, should collaborate with the Israel Science Foundation and the United States-Israel Binational Science Foundation; (12) the United States and Israel should strive to develop more robust academic cooperation in—(A) energy innovation technology and engineering; (B) water science; (C) technology transfer; and (D) analysis of emerging geopolitical implications, crises and threats from foreign natural resource and energy acquisitions, and the development of domestic resources as a response; (13) the United States supports the goals of the Alternative Fuels Administration of Israel with respect to expanding the use of alternative fuels; (14) the United States strongly urges open dialogue and continued mechanisms for regular engagement and encourages further cooperation between applicable departments, agencies, ministries, institutions of higher education, and the private sector of the United States and Israel on energy security issues, including—(A) identifying policy priorities associated with the development of natural resources of Israel; (B) discussing and sharing best practices to secure cyber energy infrastructure and other energy security matters; (C) leveraging natural gas to positively impact regional stability; (D) issues relating to the energy-water nexus, including improving energy efficiency and the overall performance of water technologies through research and development in water desalination, wastewater treatment and reclamation, water treatment in gas and oil production processes, and other water treatment refiners; (E) technical and environmental management of deep-water exploration and production; (F) emergency response and coastal protection and restoration; (G) academic outreach and engagement; (H) private sector and business development engagement; (I) regulatory consultations; (J) leveraging alternative transportation fuels and technologies; and (K) any other areas determined appropriate by the United States and Israel; (15) the United States—(A) acknowledges the achievements and importance of the Binational Industrial Research and Development Foundation and the United States-Israel Binational Science Foundation; and (B) supports continued multiyear funding to ensure the continuity of the programs of the foundations specified in subparagraph (A); and (16) the United States and Israel have a shared interest in addressing immediate, near-term, and long-term energy, energy poverty, energy independence, and environmental challenges facing the United States and Israel, respectively. (b) Grant program(1) EstablishmentIn implementing the agreement entitled the “Agreement between the Department of Energy of the United States of America and the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure of Israel Concerning Energy Cooperation”, dated February 1, 1996, the Secretary shall establish a grant program in accordance with the requirements of sections 16352 and 16353 of this title to support research, development, and commercialization of covered energy. (2) Types of energyIn carrying out paragraph (1), the Secretary may make grants to promote—(A) solar energy; (B) biomass energy; (C) energy efficiency; (D) wind energy; (E) geothermal energy; (F) wave and tidal energy; (G) advanced battery technology; (H) natural gas energy, including conventional and unconventional natural gas technologies and other associated technologies, and natural gas projects conducted by or in conjunction with the United States-Israel Binational Science Foundation and the United States-Israel Binational Industrial Research and Development Foundation; and (I) improvement of energy efficiency and the overall performance of water technologies through research and development in water desalination, wastewater treatment and reclamation, and other water treatment refiners. (3) Eligible applicantsAn applicant shall be eligible to receive a grant under this subsection if the project of the applicant—(A) addresses a requirement in the area of improved covered energy sources, as determined by the Secretary; and (B) is a joint venture between—(i)(I) a for-profit business entity, academic institution, National Laboratory (as defined in section 15801 of this title), or nonprofit entity in the United States; and (II) a for-profit business entity, academic institution, or nonprofit entity in Israel; or (ii)(I) the Federal Government; and (II) the Government of Israel. (4) ApplicationsTo be eligible to receive a grant under this subsection, an applicant shall submit to the Secretary an application for the grant in accordance with procedures established by the Secretary, in consultation with the advisory board established under paragraph (5). (5) Advisory board(A) EstablishmentThe Secretary shall establish an advisory board—(i) to monitor the method by which grants are awarded under this subsection; and (ii) to provide to the Secretary periodic performance reviews of actions taken to carry out this subsection. (B) CompositionThe advisory board established under subparagraph (A) shall be composed of 3 members, to be appointed by the Secretary, of whom—(i) 1 shall be a representative of the Federal Government; (ii) 1 shall be selected from a list of nominees provided by the United States-Israel Binational Science Foundation; and (iii) 1 shall be selected from a list of nominees provided by the United States-Israel Binational Industrial Research and Development Foundation. (6) Contributed fundsNotwithstanding section 3302 of title 31, the Secretary may accept, retain, and use funds contributed by any person, government entity, or organization for purposes of carrying out this subsection—(A) without further appropriation; and (B) without fiscal year limitation. (7) ReportNot later than 180 days after the date of completion of a project for which a grant is provided under this subsection, the grant recipient shall submit to the Secretary a report that contains—(A) a description of the method by which the recipient used the grant funds; and (B) an evaluation of the level of success of each project funded by the grant. (8) ClassificationGrants shall be awarded under this subsection only for projects that are considered to be unclassified by both the United States and Israel. (c) International partnerships(1) In generalThe Secretary, subject to the availability of appropriations, may enter into cooperative agreements supporting and enhancing dialogue and planning involving international partnerships between the Department, including National Laboratories of the Department, and the Government of Israel and its ministries, offices, and institutions. (2) Federal shareThe Secretary may not pay more than 50 percent of Federal share of the costs of implementing cooperative agreements entered into pursuant to paragraph (1). (3) Annual reportsIf the Secretary enters into agreements authorized by paragraph (1), the Secretary shall submit an annual report to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate, the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate, the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate, the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives, the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives, the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives, and the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives that describes—(A) actions taken to implement such agreements; and (B) any projects undertaken pursuant to such agreements. (d) United States-Israel Energy CenterThe Secretary may establish a joint United States-Israel Energy Center in the United States leveraging the experience, knowledge, and expertise of institutions of higher education and entities in the private sector, among others, in offshore energy development to further dialogue and collaboration to develop more robust academic cooperation in energy innovation technology and engineering, water science, technology transfer, and analysis of emerging geopolitical implications, crises and threats from foreign natural resource and energy acquisitions, and the development of domestic resources as a response. (e) TerminationThe grant program and the advisory committee established under this section terminate on September 30, 2024.

42 U.S.C. § 17351 Definitions

In this part: (1) BoardThe term “Board” means the Board of Directors of the Foundation established pursuant to section 17352(c) of this title. (2) Chief Executive OfficerThe term “Chief Executive Officer” means the chief executive officer of the Foundation appointed pursuant to section 17352(b) of this title. (3) FoundationThe term “Foundation” means the International Clean Energy Foundation established by section 17352(a) of this title.

42 U.S.C. § 17352 Establishment and management of Foundation

(a) Establishment(1) In generalThere is established in the executive branch a foundation to be known as the “International Clean Energy Foundation” that shall be responsible for carrying out the provisions of this part. The Foundation shall be a government corporation, as defined in section 103 of title 5. (2) Board of DirectorsThe Foundation shall be governed by a Board of Directors in accordance with subsection (c). (3) Intent of CongressIt is the intent of Congress, in establishing the structure of the Foundation set forth in this subsection, to create an entity that serves the long-term foreign policy and energy security goals of reducing global greenhouse gas emissions. (b) Chief Executive Officer(1) In generalThere shall be in the Foundation a Chief Executive Officer who shall be responsible for the management of the Foundation. (2) AppointmentThe Chief Executive Officer shall be appointed by the Board, with the advice and consent of the Senate, and shall be a recognized leader in clean and efficient energy technologies and climate change and shall have experience in energy security, business, or foreign policy, chosen on the basis of a rigorous search. (3) Relationship to BoardThe Chief Executive Officer shall report to, and be under the direct authority of, the Board. (4) Compensation and rank(A) In generalThe Chief Executive Officer shall be compensated at the rate provided for level III of the Executive Schedule under section 5314 of title 5. (B) Omitted (C) Authorities and dutiesThe Chief Executive Officer shall be responsible for the management of the Foundation and shall exercise the powers and discharge the duties of the Foundation. (D) Authority to appoint officersIn consultation and with approval of the Board, the Chief Executive Officer shall appoint all officers of the Foundation. (c) Board of Directors(1) EstablishmentThere shall be in the Foundation a Board of Directors. (2) DutiesThe Board shall perform the functions specified to be carried out by the Board in this part and may prescribe, amend, and repeal bylaws, rules, regulations, and procedures governing the manner in which the business of the Foundation may be conducted and in which the powers granted to it by law may be exercised. (3) MembershipThe Board shall consist of—(A) the Secretary of State (or the Secretary’s designee), the Secretary of Energy (or the Secretary’s designee), and the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development (or the Administrator’s designee); and (B) four other individuals with relevant experience in matters relating to energy security (such as individuals who represent institutions of energy policy, business organizations, foreign policy organizations, or other relevant organizations) who shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, of whom—(i) one individual shall be appointed from among a list of individuals submitted by the Majority Leader of the House of Representatives; (ii) one individual shall be appointed from among a list of individuals submitted by the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives; (iii) one individual shall be appointed from among a list of individuals submitted by the Majority Leader of the Senate; and (iv) one individual shall be appointed from among a list of individuals submitted by the Minority Leader of the Senate. (4) Chief Executive OfficerThe Chief Executive Officer of the Foundation shall serve as a nonvoting, ex officio member of the Board. (5) Terms(A) Officers of the Federal GovernmentEach member of the Board described in paragraph (3)(A) shall serve for a term that is concurrent with the term of service of the individual’s position as an officer within the other Federal department or agency. (B) Other membersEach member of the Board described in paragraph (3)(B) shall be appointed for a term of 3 years and may be reappointed for a term of an additional 3 years. (C) VacanciesA vacancy in the Board shall be filled in the manner in which the original appointment was made. (D) Acting membersA vacancy in the Board may be filled with an appointment of an acting member by the Chairperson of the Board for up to 1 year while a nominee is named and awaits confirmation in accordance with paragraph (3)(B). (6) ChairpersonThere shall be a Chairperson of the Board. The Secretary of State (or the Secretary’s designee) shall serve as the Chairperson. (7) QuorumA majority of the members of the Board described in paragraph (3) shall constitute a quorum, which, except with respect to a meeting of the Board during the 135-day period beginning on December 19, 2007, shall include at least 1 member of the Board described in paragraph (3)(B). (8) MeetingsThe Board shall meet at the call of the Chairperson, who shall call a meeting no less than once a year. (9) Compensation(A) Officers of the Federal Government(i) In generalA member of the Board described in paragraph (3)(A) may not receive additional pay, allowances, or benefits by reason of the member’s service on the Board. (ii) Travel expensesEach such member of the Board shall receive travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, in accordance with applicable provisions under subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5. (B) Other members(i) In generalExcept as provided in clause (ii), a member of the Board described in paragraph (3)(B)—(I) shall be paid compensation out of funds made available for the purposes of this part at the daily equivalent of the highest rate payable under section 5332 of title 5 for each day (including travel time) during which the member is engaged in the actual performance of duties as a member of the Board; and (II) while away from the member’s home or regular place of business on necessary travel in the actual performance of duties as a member of the Board, shall be paid per diem, travel, and transportation expenses in the same manner as is provided under subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5. (ii) LimitationA member of the Board may not be paid compensation under clause (i)(II) for more than 90 days in any calendar year.

42 U.S.C. § 17353 Duties of Foundation

The Foundation shall— (1) use the funds authorized by this part to make grants to promote projects outside of the United States that serve as models of how to significantly reduce the emissions of global greenhouse gases through clean and efficient energy technologies, processes, and services; (2) seek contributions from foreign governments, especially those rich in energy resources such as member countries of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, and private organizations to supplement funds made available under this part; (3) harness global expertise through collaborative partnerships with foreign governments and domestic and foreign private actors, including nongovernmental organizations and private sector companies, by leveraging public and private capital, technology, expertise, and services towards innovative models that can be instituted to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions; (4) create a repository of information on best practices and lessons learned on the utilization and implementation of clean and efficient energy technologies and processes to be used for future initiatives to tackle the climate change crisis; (5) be committed to minimizing administrative costs and to maximizing the availability of funds for grants under this part; and (6) promote the use of American-made clean and efficient energy technologies, processes, and services by giving preference to entities incorporated in the United States and whose technology will be substantially manufactured in the United States.

42 U.S.C. § 17354 Annual report

(a) Report requiredNot later than March 31, 2008, and each March 31 thereafter, the Foundation shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report on the implementation of this part during the prior fiscal year. (b) ContentsThe report required by subsection (a) shall include—(1) the total financial resources available to the Foundation during the year, including appropriated funds, the value and source of any gifts or donations accepted pursuant to section 17355(a)(6) of this title, and any other resources; (2) a description of the Board’s policy priorities for the year and the basis upon which competitive grant proposals were solicited and awarded to nongovernmental institutions and other organizations; (3) a list of grants made to nongovernmental institutions and other organizations that includes the identity of the institutional recipient, the dollar amount, and the results of the program; and (4) the total administrative and operating expenses of the Foundation for the year, as well as specific information on—(A) the number of Foundation employees and the cost of compensation for Board members, Foundation employees, and personal service contractors; (B) costs associated with securing the use of real property for carrying out the functions of the Foundation; (C) total travel expenses incurred by Board members and Foundation employees in connection with Foundation activities; and (D) total representational expenses.

42 U.S.C. § 17355 Powers of the Foundation; related provisions

(a) PowersThe Foundation—(1) shall have perpetual succession unless dissolved by a law enacted after December 19, 2007; (2) may adopt, alter, and use a seal, which shall be judicially noticed; (3) may make and perform such contracts, grants, and other agreements with any person or government however designated and wherever situated, as may be necessary for carrying out the functions of the Foundation; (4) may determine and prescribe the manner in which its obligations shall be incurred and its expenses allowed and paid, including expenses for representation; (5) may lease, purchase, or otherwise acquire, improve, and use such real property wherever situated, as may be necessary for carrying out the functions of the Foundation; (6) may accept money, funds, services, or property (real, personal, or mixed), tangible or intangible, made available by gift, bequest 11 So in original. A comma probably should appear. grant, or otherwise for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this subchapter from domestic or foreign private individuals, charities, nongovernmental organizations, corporations, or governments; (7) may use the United States mails in the same manner and on the same conditions as the executive departments; (8) may contract with individuals for personal services, who shall not be considered Federal employees for any provision of law administered by the Office of Personnel Management; (9) may hire or obtain passenger motor vehicles; and (10) shall have such other powers as may be necessary and incident to carrying out this part. (b) Principal officeThe Foundation shall maintain its principal office in the metropolitan area of Washington, District of Columbia. (c) Applicability of Government Corporation Control Act(1) In generalThe Foundation shall be subject to chapter 91 of subtitle VI of title 31, except that the Foundation shall not be authorized to issue obligations or offer obligations to the public. (2) Omitted (d) Inspector General(1) In generalThe Inspector General of the Department of State shall serve as Inspector General of the Foundation, and, in acting in such capacity, may conduct reviews, investigations, and inspections of all aspects of the operations and activities of the Foundation. (2) Authority of the BoardIn carrying out the responsibilities under this subsection, the Inspector General shall report to and be under the general supervision of the Board. (3) Reimbursement and authorization of services(A) ReimbursementThe Foundation shall reimburse the Department of State for all expenses incurred by the Inspector General in connection with the Inspector General’s responsibilities under this subsection. (B) Authorization for servicesOf the amount authorized to be appropriated under section 17357(a) of this title for a fiscal year, up to $500,000 is authorized to be made available to the Inspector General of the Department of State to conduct reviews, investigations, and inspections of operations and activities of the Foundation.

42 U.S.C. § 17356 General personnel authorities

(a) Detail of personnelUpon request of the Chief Executive Officer, the head of an agency may detail any employee of such agency to the Foundation on a reimbursable basis. Any employee so detailed remains, for the purpose of preserving such employee’s allowances, privileges, rights, seniority, and other benefits, an employee of the agency from which detailed. (b) Reemployment rights(1) In generalAn employee of an agency who is serving under a career or career conditional appointment (or the equivalent), and who, with the consent of the head of such agency, transfers to the Foundation, is entitled to be reemployed in such employee’s former position or a position of like seniority, status, and pay in such agency, if such employee—(A) is separated from the Foundation for any reason, other than misconduct, neglect of duty, or malfeasance; and (B) applies for reemployment not later than 90 days after the date of separation from the Foundation. (2) Specific rightsAn employee who satisfies paragraph (1) is entitled to be reemployed (in accordance with such paragraph) within 30 days after applying for reemployment and, on reemployment, is entitled to at least the rate of basic pay to which such employee would have been entitled had such employee never transferred. (c) Hiring authorityOf persons employed by the Foundation, no more than 30 persons may be appointed, compensated, or removed without regard to the civil service laws and regulations. (d) Basic payThe Chief Executive Officer may fix the rate of basic pay of employees of the Foundation without regard to the provisions of chapter 51 of title 5 (relating to the classification of positions), subchapter III of chapter 53 of such title (relating to General Schedule pay rates), except that no employee of the Foundation may receive a rate of basic pay that exceeds the rate for level IV of the Executive Schedule under section 5315 of such title. (e) DefinitionsIn this section—(1) the term “agency” means an executive agency, as defined by section 105 of title 5; and (2) the term “detail” means the assignment or loan of an employee, without a change of position, from the agency by which such employee is employed to the Foundation.

42 U.S.C. § 17357 Authorization of appropriations

(a) Authorization of appropriationsTo carry out this part, there are authorized to be appropriated $20,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2009 through 2013. (b) Allocation of funds(1) In generalThe Foundation may allocate or transfer to any agency of the United States Government any of the funds available for carrying out this part. Such funds shall be available for obligation and expenditure for the purposes for which the funds were authorized, in accordance with authority granted in this part or under authority governing the activities of the United States Government agency to which such funds are allocated or transferred. (2) NotificationThe Foundation shall notify the appropriate congressional committees not less than 15 days prior to an allocation or transfer of funds pursuant to paragraph (1).

42 U.S.C. § 17371 Energy diplomacy and security within the Department of State

(a) State Department Coordinator for International Energy Affairs(1) In generalThe Secretary of State should ensure that energy security is integrated into the core mission of the Department of State. (2) Coordinator for International Energy AffairsThere is established within the Office of the Secretary of State a Coordinator for International Energy Affairs, who shall be responsible for—(A) representing the Secretary of State in interagency efforts to develop the international energy policy of the United States; (B) ensuring that analyses of the national security implications of global energy and environmental developments are reflected in the decision making process within the Department of State; (C) incorporating energy security priorities into the activities of the Department of State; (D) coordinating energy activities of the Department of State with relevant Federal agencies; and (E) coordinating energy security and other relevant functions within the Department of State currently undertaken by offices within—(i) the Bureau of Economic, Energy and Business Affairs; (ii) the Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs; and (iii) other offices within the Department of State. (3) Authorization of appropriationsThere are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out this subsection. (b) Energy experts in key embassiesNot later than 180 days after December 19, 2007, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate and the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives that includes—(1) a description of the Department of State personnel who are dedicated to energy matters and are stationed at embassies and consulates in countries that are major energy producers or consumers; (2) an analysis of the need for Federal energy specialist personnel in United States embassies and other United States diplomatic missions; and (3) recommendations for increasing energy expertise within United States embassies among foreign service officers and options for assigning to such embassies energy attachés from the National Laboratories or other agencies within the Department of Energy. (c) Energy advisorsThe Secretary of Energy may make appropriate arrangements with the Secretary of State to assign personnel from the Department of Energy or the National Laboratories of the Department of Energy to serve as dedicated advisors on energy matters in embassies of the United States or other United States diplomatic missions. (d) ReportNot later than 180 days after December 19, 2007, and every 2 years thereafter for the following 20 years, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate and the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives that describes—(1) the energy-related activities being conducted by the Department of State, including activities within—(A) the Bureau of Economic, Energy and Business Affairs; (B) the Bureau of Oceans and Environmental and Scientific Affairs; and (C) other offices within the Department of State; (2) the amount of funds spent on each activity within each office described in paragraph (1); and (3) the number and qualification of personnel in each embassy (or relevant foreign posting) of the United States whose work is dedicated exclusively to energy matters.

42 U.S.C. § 17372 Annual national energy security strategy report

(a) Reports(1) In generalSubject to paragraph (2), on the date on which the President submits to Congress the budget for the following fiscal year under section 1105 of title 31, the President shall submit to Congress a comprehensive report on the national energy security of the United States. (2) New PresidentsIn addition to the reports required under paragraph (1), the President shall submit a comprehensive report on the national energy security of the United States by not later than 150 days after the date on which the President assumes the office of President after a presidential election. (b) ContentsEach report under this section shall describe the national energy security strategy of the United States, including a comprehensive description of—(1) the worldwide interests, goals, and objectives of the United States that are vital to the national energy security of the United States; (2) the foreign policy, worldwide commitments, and national defense capabilities of the United States necessary—(A) to deter political manipulation of world energy resources; and (B) to implement the national energy security strategy of the United States; (3) the proposed short-term and long-term uses of the political, economic, military, and other authorities of the United States—(A) to protect or promote energy security; and (B) to achieve the goals and objectives described in paragraph (1); (4) the adequacy of the capabilities of the United States to protect the national energy security of the United States, including an evaluation of the balance among the capabilities of all elements of the national authority of the United States to support the implementation of the national energy security strategy; and (5) such other information as the President determines to be necessary to inform Congress on matters relating to the national energy security of the United States. (c) Classified and unclassified formEach national energy security strategy report shall be submitted to Congress in—(1) a classified form; and (2) an unclassified form.

42 U.S.C. § 17373 Convention on Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage contingent cost allocation

(a) Findings and purpose(1) FindingsCongress finds that—(A) section 2210 of this title (commonly known as the “Price-Anderson Act”)—(i) provides a predictable legal framework necessary for nuclear projects; and (ii) ensures prompt and equitable compensation in the event of a nuclear incident in the United States; (B) the Price-Anderson Act, in effect, provides operators of nuclear powerplants with insurance for damage arising out of a nuclear incident and funds the insurance primarily through the assessment of a retrospective premium from each operator after the occurrence of a nuclear incident; (C) the Convention on Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage, done at Vienna on September 12, 1997, will establish a global system—(i) to provide a predictable legal framework necessary for nuclear energy projects; and (ii) to ensure prompt and equitable compensation in the event of a nuclear incident; (D) the Convention benefits United States nuclear suppliers that face potentially unlimited liability for nuclear incidents that are not covered by the Price-Anderson Act by replacing a potentially open-ended liability with a predictable liability regime that, in effect, provides nuclear suppliers with insurance for damage arising out of such an incident; (E) the Convention also benefits United States nuclear facility operators that may be publicly liable for a Price-Anderson incident by providing an additional early source of funds to compensate damage arising out of the Price-Anderson incident; (F) the combined operation of the Convention, the Price-Anderson Act, and this section will augment the quantity of assured funds available for victims in a wider variety of nuclear incidents while reducing the potential liability of United States suppliers without increasing potential costs to United States operators; (G) the cost of those benefits is the obligation of the United States to contribute to the supplementary compensation fund established by the Convention; (H) any such contribution should be funded in a manner that does not—(i) upset settled expectations based on the liability regime established under the Price-Anderson Act; or (ii) shift to Federal taxpayers liability risks for nuclear incidents at foreign installations; (I) with respect to a Price-Anderson incident, funds already available under the Price-Anderson Act should be used; and (J) with respect to a nuclear incident outside the United States not covered by the Price-Anderson Act, a retrospective premium should be prorated among nuclear suppliers relieved from potential liability for which insurance is not available. (2) PurposeThe purpose of this section is to allocate the contingent costs associated with participation by the United States in the international nuclear liability compensation system established by the Convention on Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage, done at Vienna on September 12, 1997—(A) with respect to a Price-Anderson incident, by using funds made available under section 2210 of this title to cover the contingent costs in a manner that neither increases the burdens nor decreases the benefits under section 2210 of this title; and (B) with respect to a covered incident outside the United States that is not a Price-Anderson incident, by allocating the contingent costs equitably, on the basis of risk, among the class of nuclear suppliers relieved by the Convention from the risk of potential liability resulting from any covered incident outside the United States. (b) DefinitionsIn this section:(1) CommissionThe term “Commission” means the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. (2) Contingent costThe term “contingent cost” means the cost to the United States in the event of a covered incident the amount of which is equal to the amount of funds the United States is obligated to make available under paragraph 1(b) of Article III of the Convention. (3) ConventionThe term “Convention” means the Convention on Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage, done at Vienna on September 12, 1997. (4) Covered incidentThe term “covered incident” means a nuclear incident the occurrence of which results in a request for funds pursuant to Article VII of the Convention. (5) Covered installationThe term “covered installation” means a nuclear installation at which the occurrence of a nuclear incident could result in a request for funds under Article VII of the Convention. (6) Covered person(A) In generalThe term “covered person” means—(i) a United States person; and (ii) an individual or entity (including an agency or instrumentality of a foreign country) that—(I) is located in the United States; or (II) carries out an activity in the United States. (B) ExclusionsThe term “covered person” does not include—(i) the United States; or (ii) any agency or instrumentality of the United States. (7) Nuclear supplierThe term “nuclear supplier” means a covered person (or a successor in interest of a covered person) that—(A) supplies facilities, equipment, fuel, services, or technology pertaining to the design, construction, operation, or decommissioning of a covered installation; or (B) transports nuclear materials that could result in a covered incident. (8) Price-Anderson incidentThe term “Price-Anderson incident” means a covered incident for which section 2210 of this title would make funds available to compensate for public liability (as defined in section 2014 of this title). (9) SecretaryThe term “Secretary” means the Secretary of Energy. (10) United States(A) In generalThe term “United States” has the meaning given the term in section 2014 of this title. (B) InclusionsThe term “United States” includes—(i) the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico; (ii) any other territory or possession of the United States; (iii) the Canal Zone; and (iv) the waters of the United States territorial sea under Presidential Proclamation Number 5928, dated December 27, 1988 (43 U.S.C. 1331 note). (11) United States personThe term “United States person” means—(A) any individual who is a resident, national, or citizen of the United States (other than an individual residing outside of the United States and employed by a person who is not a United States person); and (B) any corporation, partnership, association, joint stock company, business trust, unincorporated organization, or sole proprietorship that is organized under the laws of the United States. (c) Use of Price-Anderson funds(1) In generalFunds made available under section 2210 of this title shall be used to cover the contingent cost resulting from any Price-Anderson incident. (2) EffectThe use of funds pursuant to paragraph (1) shall not reduce the limitation on public liability established under section 2210(e) of this title. (d) Effect on amount of public liability(1) In generalFunds made available to the United States under Article VII of the Convention with respect to a Price-Anderson incident shall be used to satisfy public liability resulting from the Price-Anderson incident. (2) AmountThe amount of public liability allowable under section 2210 of this title relating to a Price-Anderson incident under paragraph (1) shall be increased by an amount equal to the difference between—(A) the amount of funds made available for the Price-Anderson incident under Article VII of the Convention; and (B) the amount of funds used under subsection (c) to cover the contingent cost resulting from the Price-Anderson incident. (e) Retrospective risk pooling program(1) In generalExcept as provided under paragraph (2), each nuclear supplier shall participate in a retrospective risk pooling program in accordance with this section to cover the contingent cost resulting from a covered incident outside the United States that is not a Price-Anderson incident. (2) Deferred payment(A) In generalThe obligation of a nuclear supplier to participate in the retrospective risk pooling program shall be deferred until the United States is called on to provide funds pursuant to Article VII of the Convention with respect to a covered incident that is not a Price-Anderson incident. (B) Amount of deferred paymentThe amount of a deferred payment of a nuclear supplier under subparagraph (A) shall be based on the risk-informed assessment formula determined under subparagraph (C). (C) Risk-informed assessment formula(i) In generalNot later than 3 years after December 19, 2007, and every 5 years thereafter, the Secretary shall, by regulation, determine the risk-informed assessment formula for the allocation among nuclear suppliers of the contingent cost resulting from a covered incident that is not a Price-Anderson incident, taking into account risk factors such as—(I) the nature and intended purpose of the goods and services supplied by each nuclear supplier to each covered installation outside the United States; (II) the quantity of the goods and services supplied by each nuclear supplier to each covered installation outside the United States; (III) the hazards associated with the supplied goods and services if the goods and services fail to achieve the intended purposes; (IV) the hazards associated with the covered installation outside the United States to which the goods and services are supplied; (V) the legal, regulatory, and financial infrastructure associated with the covered installation outside the United States to which the goods and services are supplied; and (VI) the hazards associated with particular forms of transportation. (ii) Factors for considerationIn determining the formula, the Secretary may—(I) exclude—(aa) goods and services with negligible risk; (bb) classes of goods and services not intended specifically for use in a nuclear installation; (cc) a nuclear supplier with a de minimis share of the contingent cost; and (dd) a nuclear supplier no longer in existence for which there is no identifiable successor; and (II) establish the period on which the risk assessment is based. (iii) ApplicationIn applying the formula, the Secretary shall not consider any covered installation or transportation for which funds would be available under section 2210 of this title. (iv) ReportNot later than 5 years after December 19, 2007, and every 5 years thereafter, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives, a report on whether there is a need for continuation or amendment of this section, taking into account the effects of the implementation of the Convention on the United States nuclear industry and suppliers. (f) Reporting(1) Collection of information(A) In generalThe Secretary may collect information necessary for developing and implementing the formula for calculating the deferred payment of a nuclear supplier under subsection (e)(2). (B) Provision of informationEach nuclear supplier and other appropriate persons shall make available to the Secretary such information, reports, records, documents, and other data as the Secretary determines, by regulation, to be necessary or appropriate to develop and implement the formula under subsection (e)(2)(C). (2) Private insuranceThe Secretary shall make available to nuclear suppliers, and insurers of nuclear suppliers, information to support the voluntary establishment and maintenance of private insurance against any risk for which nuclear suppliers may be required to pay deferred payments under this section. (g) Effect on liabilityNothing in any other law (including regulations) limits liability for a covered incident to an amount equal to less than the amount prescribed in paragraph 1(a) of Article IV of the Convention, unless the law—(1) specifically refers to this section; and (2) explicitly repeals, alters, amends, modifies, impairs, displaces, or supersedes the effect of this subsection. (h) Payments to and by the United States(1) Action by nuclear suppliers(A) NotificationIn the case of a request for funds under Article VII of the Convention resulting from a covered incident that is not a Price-Anderson incident, the Secretary shall notify each nuclear supplier of the amount of the deferred payment required to be made by the nuclear supplier. (B) Payments(i) In generalExcept as provided under clause (ii), not later than 60 days after receipt of a notification under subparagraph (A), a nuclear supplier shall pay to the general fund of the Treasury the deferred payment of the nuclear supplier required under subparagraph (A). (ii) Annual paymentsA nuclear supplier may elect to prorate payment of the deferred payment required under subparagraph (A) in 5 equal annual payments (including interest on the unpaid balance at the prime rate prevailing at the time the first payment is due). (C) VouchersA nuclear supplier shall submit payment certification vouchers to the Secretary of the Treasury in accordance with section 3325 of title 31. (2) Use of funds(A) In generalAmounts paid into the Treasury under paragraph (1) shall be available to the Secretary of the Treasury, without further appropriation and without fiscal year limitation, for the purpose of making the contributions of public funds required to be made by the United States under the Convention. (B) Action by Secretary of TreasuryThe Secretary of the Treasury shall pay the contribution required under the Convention to the court of competent jurisdiction under Article XIII of the Convention with respect to the applicable covered incident. (3) Failure to payIf a nuclear supplier fails to make a payment required under this subsection, the Secretary may take appropriate action to recover from the nuclear supplier—(A) the amount of the payment due from the nuclear supplier; (B) any applicable interest on the payment; and (C) a penalty of not more than twice the amount of the deferred payment due from the nuclear supplier. (i) Limitation on judicial review; cause of action(1) Limitation on judicial review(A) In generalIn any civil action arising under the Convention over which Article XIII of the Convention grants jurisdiction to the courts of the United States, any appeal or review by writ of mandamus or otherwise with respect to a nuclear incident that is not a Price-Anderson incident shall be in accordance with chapter 83 of title 28, except that the appeal or review shall occur in the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. (B) Supreme Court jurisdictionNothing in this paragraph affects the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court of the United States under chapter 81 of title 28. (2) Cause of action(A) In generalSubject to subparagraph (B), in any civil action arising under the Convention over which Article XIII of the Convention grants jurisdiction to the courts of the United States, in addition to any other cause of action that may exist, an individual or entity shall have a cause of action against the operator to recover for nuclear damage suffered by the individual or entity. (B) RequirementSubparagraph (A) shall apply only if the individual or entity seeks a remedy for nuclear damage (as defined in Article I of the Convention) that was caused by a nuclear incident (as defined in Article I of the Convention) that is not a Price-Anderson incident. (C) Savings provisionNothing in this paragraph may be construed to limit, modify, extinguish, or otherwise affect any cause of action that would have existed in the absence of enactment of this paragraph. (j) Right of recourseThis section does not provide to an operator of a covered installation any right of recourse under the Convention. (k) Protection of sensitive United States informationNothing in the Convention or this section requires the disclosure of—(1) any data that, at any time, was Restricted Data (as defined in section 2014 of this title); (2) information relating to intelligence sources or methods protected by section 3024(h) of title 50; or (3) national security information classified under Executive Order 12958 ([former] 50 U.S.C. 435 note; relating to classified national security information) (or a successor Executive Order or regulation). (l) Regulations(1) In generalThe Secretary or the Commission, as appropriate, may prescribe regulations to carry out section 2210 of this title and this section. (2) RequirementRules prescribed under this subsection shall ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, that—(A) the implementation of section 2210 of this title and this section is consistent and equitable; and (B) the financial and operational burden on a Commission licensee in complying with section 2210 of this title is not greater as a result of the enactment of this section. (3) Applicability of provisionSection 553 of title 5 shall apply with respect to the promulgation of regulations under this subsection. (4) Effect of subsectionThe authority provided under this subsection is in addition to, and does not impair or otherwise affect, any other authority of the Secretary or the Commission to prescribe regulations. (m) Effective dateThis section shall take effect on December 19, 2007.

42 U.S.C. § 17374 Transparency in extractive industries resource payments

(a) PurposeThe purpose of this section is to—(1) ensure greater United States energy security by combating corruption in the governments of foreign countries that receive revenues from the sale of their natural resources; and (2) enhance the development of democracy and increase political and economic stability in such resource rich foreign countries. (b) Statement of policyIt is the policy of the United States—(1) to increase energy security by promoting anti-corruption initiatives in oil and natural gas rich countries; and (2) to promote global energy security through promotion of programs such as the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) that seek to instill transparency and accountability into extractive industries resource payments. (c) Sense of CongressIt is the sense of Congress that the United States should further global energy security and promote democratic development in resource-rich foreign countries by—(1) encouraging further participation in the EITI by eligible countries and companies; and (2) promoting the efficacy of the EITI program by ensuring a robust and candid review mechanism. (d) Report(1) Report requiredNot later than 180 days after December 19, 2007, and annually thereafter, the Secretary of State, in consultation with the Secretary of Energy, shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report on progress made in promoting transparency in extractive industries resource payments. (2) Matters to be includedThe report required by paragraph (1) shall include a detailed description of United States participation in the EITI, bilateral and multilateral diplomatic efforts to further participation in the EITI, and other United States initiatives to strengthen energy security, deter energy kleptocracy, and promote transparency in the extractive industries. (e) Authorization of appropriationsThere is authorized to be appropriated $3,000,000 for the purposes of United States contributions to the Multi-Donor Trust Fund of the EITI.

42 U.S.C. § 17375 Regional clean energy innovation program

(a) DefinitionsIn this section:(1) Regional clean energy innovation partnershipThe term “regional clean energy innovation partnership” means a group of one or more persons, including a covered consortium, who perform a collection of activities that are coordinated by such covered consortium to carry out the purposes of the program under subsection (c) in a region of the United States. (2) Covered consortiumThe term “covered consortium” means an individual or group of individuals in partnership with a government entity, including a State, territorial, local, or tribal government or unit of such government, and at least 2 or more of the following additional entities—(A) an institution of higher education or a consortium of institutions of higher education, including community colleges; (B) a workforce development program; (C) a private sector entity or group of entities, including a trade or industry association; (D) a nonprofit organization; (E) a community group or community-based organization; (F) a labor organization or joint labor-management organization; (G) a National Laboratory; (H) a venture development organization; (I) a community development financial institution or minority depository institution; (J) a worker cooperative membership association or state or local employee ownership or cooperative development center; (K) an organization focused on clean energy technology innovation or entrepreneurship; (L) a business or clean energy accelerator or incubator; (M) an economic development organization; (N) a manufacturing facility or organization; (O) a multi-institutional collaboration; or (P) any other entity that the Secretary determines to be relevant. (3) ProgramThe term “program” means the Regional Clean Energy Innovation Program authorized in subsection (b). (4) Institution of higher educationThe term “institution of higher education” has the meaning given such term in section 1001 or 1002(a)(1)(B) of title 20. (5) National LaboratoryThe term “National Laboratory” has the meaning given that term in section 15801 of this title. (6) Clean energy technologyThe term “clean energy technology” means a technology that significantly reduces energy use, increases energy efficiency, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, reduces emissions of other pollutants, or mitigates other negative environmental consequences of energy production, transmission or use. (7) Community-based organizationThe term “community-based organization” has the meaning given the term in section 3102 of title 29. (8) Community collegeThe term “community college” means—(A) a public institution of higher education, including additional locations, at which the highest degree, or the predominantly awarded degree, is an associate degree; or (B) any Tribal college or university (as defined in section 1059c of title 20). (9) Workforce development programThe term “workforce development program” has the meaning given the term in section 3102 of title 29. (b) In generalThe Secretary shall establish a Regional Clean Energy Innovation Program, a research, development, demonstration, and commercial application program designed to enhance the economic, environmental, and energy security of the United States and accelerate the pace of innovation of diverse clean energy technologies through the formation or support of regional clean energy innovation partnerships. (c) Purposes of the ProgramThe purposes of the Program established under subsection (b) are to—(1) improve the competitiveness of United States’ clean energy technology research, development, demonstration, and commercial application; and (2) support the development of tools and technologies best suited for use in diverse regions of the United States, including in rural, tribal, and low-income communities. (d) Regional clean energy innovation partnerships(1) In generalThe Secretary shall competitively award grants to covered consortia to establish or support regional clean energy innovation partnerships that achieve the purposes of the Program in subsection (c). (2) Permissible activitiesGrants awarded under this subsection shall be used for activities determined appropriate by the Secretary to achieve the purposes of the Program in subsection (c), including—(A) facilitating the commercial application of clean energy products, processes, and services, including through research, development, demonstration, or technology transfer; (B) planning among participants of a regional clean energy innovation partnership to improve the strategic and cost-effective coordination of the partnership; (C) improving stakeholder involvement in the development of goals and activities of a regional clean energy innovation partnership; (D) assessing different incentive mechanisms for clean energy development and commercial application in the region; (E) hosting events and conferences; and (F) establishing and updating roadmaps to measure progress on relevant goals, such as those relevant to metrics developed under subsection (g). (3) ApplicationsEach application submitted to the Secretary under paragraph (1) may include—(A) a list of members and roles of members of the covered consortia, as well as any other stakeholders supporting the activities of the regional clean energy innovation partnership; (B) an assessment of the relevant clean energy innovation assets needed in a region to achieve proposed outcomes, such as education and workforce development programs, research facilities, infrastructure or site development, access to capital, manufacturing capabilities, or other assets; (C) a description of proposed activities that the regional clean energy innovation partnership plans to undertake and how the proposed activities will achieve the purposes described in subsection (c); (D) a plan for attracting additional funds and identification of funding sources from non-Federal sources to deliver the proposed outcomes of the regional clean energy innovation partnership; (E) a plan for partnering and collaborating with community development financial institutions and minority depository institutions, labor organizations and community groups, worker cooperative membership associations, local and state employee ownership and cooperative development centers, and other local institutions in order to promote employee, community, and public ownership in the clean energy sector, and advance models of local economic development that build and retain wealth in the region; (F) a plan for sustaining activities of the regional clean energy innovation partnership after funds received under this program have been expended; and (G) a proposed budget, including financial contributions from non-Federal sources. (4) ConsiderationsIn selecting covered consortia for funding under the Program, the Secretary shall, to the maximum extent practicable—(A) give special consideration to applications from rural, tribal, and low-income communities; and (B) ensure that there is geographic diversity among the covered consortia selected to receive funding. (5) Award amountGrants given out under this Program shall be in an amount not greater than $10,000,000, with the total grant award in any year less than that in the previous year. (6) Cost shareFor grants that are disbursed over the course of three or more years, the Secretary shall require, as a condition of receipt of funds under this section, that a covered consortium provide not less than 50 percent of the funding for the activities of the regional clean energy partnership under this section for years 3, 4, and 5. (7) DurationEach grant under paragraph shall be for a period of not longer than 5 years. (8) RenewalA grant awarded under this section may be renewed for a period of not more than 5 years, subject to a rigorous merit review based on the progress of a regional clean energy innovation partnership towards achieving the purposes of the program in subsection (c) and the metrics developed under subsection (g). (9) TerminationConsistent with the existing authorities of the Department, the Secretary may terminate grant funding under this subsection to covered consortia during the performance period if the Secretary determines that the regional clean energy innovation partnership is underperforming. (10) Administrative costsThe Secretary may allow a covered consortium that receives funds under this section to allocate a portion of the funding received to be used for administrative or indirect costs. (11) FundingThe Secretary may accept funds from other Federal agencies to support funding and activities under this section. (e) Planning fundsThe Secretary may competitively award grants in an amount no greater than $2,000,000 for a period not longer than 2 years to an entity consisting of a government entity, including a State, territorial, local, or tribal government or unit of such government or any entity listed under subsection (a)(2) to plan a regional clean energy innovation partnership or establish a covered consortium for the purpose of applying for funds under subsection (b). (f) Information sharingAs part of the program, the Secretary shall support the gathering, analysis, and dissemination of information on best practices for developing and operating successful regional clean energy innovation partnerships. (g) MetricsIn evaluating a grant renewal under subsection (d)(8), the Secretary shall work with program evaluation experts to develop and make publicly available metrics to assess the progress of a regional clean energy innovation partnership towards achieving the purposes of the program in subsection (c). (h) CoordinationIn carrying out the program, the Secretary shall coordinate with, and avoid unnecessary duplication of, the activities carried out under this section with the activities of other research entities of the Department or relevant programs at other Federal agencies. (i) Conflicts of interestIn carrying out the program, the Secretary shall maintain conflict of interest procedures, consistent with the conflict of interest procedures of the Department. (j) Evaluation by Comptroller GeneralNot later than 3 years after August 9, 2022, and again 3 years later, the Comptroller General shall submit to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate an evaluation on the operation of the program during the most recent 3-year period, including—(1) an assessment of the progress made towards achieving the purposes specified in subsection (c) based on the metrics developed under subsection (g); (2) the short-term and long-term metrics used to determine the success of the program under subsection (g), and any changes recommended to the metrics used; (3) the regional clean energy innovation partnerships established or supported by covered consortia that have received grants under subsection (d); and (4) any recommendations on how the program may be improved. (k) National LaboratoriesIn supporting technology transfer activities at the National Laboratories, the Secretary shall encourage partnerships with entities that are located in the same region or State as the National Laboratory. (l) SecurityIn carrying out the activities under this section, the Secretary shall ensure proper security controls are in place to protect sensitive information, as appropriate. (m) No funds for constructionNo funds provided to the Department of Energy under this section shall be used for construction. (n) Authorization of appropriationsThere are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $50,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through 2027.

42 U.S.C. § 17321 Definitions

In this subchapter: (1) Appropriate congressional committeesThe term “appropriate congressional committees” means—(A) the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives; and (B) the Committee on Foreign Relations, the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, the Committee on Environment and Public Works, and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate. (2) Clean and efficient energy technologyThe term “clean and efficient energy technology” means an energy supply or end-use technology that, compared to a similar technology already in widespread commercial use in a recipient country, will—(A) reduce emissions of greenhouse gases; or (B)(i) increase efficiency of energy production; or (ii) decrease intensity of energy usage. (3) Greenhouse gasThe term “greenhouse gas” means—(A) carbon dioxide; (B) methane; (C) nitrous oxide; (D) hydrofluorocarbons; (E) perfluorocarbons; or (F) sulfur hexafluoride.

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