LANL will receive the money as part of $100 million in DOE funding directed toward 25 cost-shared research projects nationwide. Funds will be dispersed between FY2007 and FY2010. At LANL, money will be distributed among three separate research and development projects involving water transport, catalysts, and the effect of impurities on fuel cell performance.

“LANL has always been on the cutting edge of scientific technology and discovery. Because of this, it is only fitting that they be selected by DOE to carry out such vital research involving our nation’s energy needs,” said Domenici. “Not only will this money engage the great minds at LANL, it will also benefit every American in our quest for new, affordable, and efficient clean fuel sources.”

In 2003, President Bush introduced the Hydrogen Fuel Initiative as part of his Advanced Energy Initiative to encourage research and development surrounding the production, storage, and distribution of vehicle hydrogen fuel cells. As chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Domenici developed The Energy Policy Act of 2005, which authorized $3.7 billion over five years for hydrogen and fuel-cell research and added $440 million to pre-existing federally funded research.

“The Energy Policy Act of 2005 directed an unprecedented amount of attention toward clean energy and the need for the U.S. to develop the proper technology to implement it. Although it is only a start, this funding places us directly on the path to lessening our energy dependence,” said Domenici.

The Energy Policy Act of 2005 also contained tax incentives and directives aimed at increasing U.S. energy independence. Its provisions call for the development of clean energy sources, including hydrogen fuel cells, by providing extra funds for research and development and creating broad tax incentives for individuals and businesses that employ cleaner energy sources.

Domenici is chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and the Water Appropriations Subcommittee, which is responsible for DOE funding.