DOE is focusing on technologies that will reduce the cost of solar power, enhance grid reliability and increase businesses competitiveness and manufacturing in the US.
The department is improving the research and development activities related to solar technologies via the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) Solar Energy Technologies Office.
US Secretary of Energy Dan Brouillette said: “Solar energy has grown tremendously in the last decade.
“The research and development supported by this investment will build on the technological foundations necessary to continue the solar industry’s growth and preserve American energy choice, independence and security.
“These investments directly support the Trump Administration’s all-of-the-above energy strategy.”
Of the $125.5m funding, $15m will be used to support eight to 12 projects related to photovoltaics (PV) hardware research and $10m for solar energy evolution and diffusion studies 3 (SEEDS 3).
To support innovation in manufacturing, $14m of the funding has been allocated to support innovations in a manufacturing-hardware incubator and $30m for systems integration.
Approximately $39m will be used for integrated thermal energy storage and Brayton cycle equipment demonstration.
In addition, EERE has announced funding of approximately $43.8m for geothermal research and development.
EERE assistant secretary Daniel R Simmons said: “We are excited about these new funding opportunities for renewable power, transportation, energy efficiency and manufacturing.
“We look forward to working with the National Labs and private sector partners to advance clean, affordable and reliable energy for American families and businesses.”
