The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) released a strategic plan that focuses on addressing the U.S.’s energy challenges and the steps the DOE plans to implement to overcome those challenges.
The plan addresses the energy, environmental, and nuclear security challenges facing the U.S. The thrust of the plan is founded on innovation through science-driven development of new technologies. It outlines commitments to energy diversity and efficiency through a host of clean fuels and new technologies.
Five strategic themes are outlined in the plan: energy security, nuclear security, scientific discovery and innovation, environmental responsibility, and management of the plan. Each theme outlines strategic goals, for example: Goal 1.1, Energy Diversity, which aims to increase the U.S.’s energy options and reduce dependence on oil, and Goal 1.4, Energy Productivity, which aims to cost-effectively improve the energy efficiency of the U.S. economy.
Each of the sixteen goals is explained in an in-depth description, followed by specific strategies the DOE has to take to reach each goal. For example, the strategies outlined to reach Goal 1.4 include enhancing existing energy markets to stimulate private investments in more efficient and economically productive technologies, developing integrated building technologies to increase the energy efficiency of commercial buildings, and partnering with energy-intensive industries to develop more efficient technologies in their industrial processes.
The plan can be found on the DOE Web site.
