Why GAO Did This Study

For decades, the nation has benefited from relatively inexpensive energy, but it has also grown reliant on fossil fuels—oil, natural gas, and coal. Periodic imported oil supply disruptions have led to price shocks, yet the nation’s dependence on imported energy is greater than ever. Fossil fuel emissions of carbon dioxide—linked to global warming—have also raised environmental concerns. The Department of Energy (DOE) has funded research and development (R&D) on advanced renewable, fossil, and nuclear energy technologies. GAO’s report entitled DOE: Key Challenges Remain for Developing and Deploying Advanced Energy Technologies to Meet Future Needs examined the (1) R&D funding trends and strategies for developing advanced energy technologies; (2) key barriers to developing and deploying advanced energy technologies; and (3) efforts of the states and six selected countries to develop and deploy advanced energy technologies. GAO reviewed DOE R&D budget data and strategic plans and obtained the views of experts in DOE, industry, and academia, as well as state and foreign government officials.


What GAO Recommends

GAO’s report recommended that the Congress consider further stimulating the development and deployment of a diversified energy portfolio by focusing R&D funding on advanced energy technologies.