House Report 111-343 - HIGH EFFICIENCY GAS TURBINES

[House Report 111-343]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]

111th Congress Report
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
1st Session 111-343

======================================================================

HIGH EFFICIENCY GAS TURBINES

_______

December 1, 2009.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the

State of the Union and ordered to be printed

_______

Mr. Gordon of Tennessee, from the Committee on Science and Technology,
submitted the following

R E P O R T

[To accompany H.R. 3029]

[Including cost estimate of the Congressional Budget Office]

The Committee on Science and Technology, to whom was referred
the bill (H.R. 3029) to establish a research, development, and
technology demonstration program to improve the efficiency of
gas turbines used in combined cycle power generation systems,
having considered the same, report favorably thereon with an
amendment and recommend that the bill as amended do pass.

CONTENTS

Page
I. Amendment.......................................................2
II. Purpose of the Bill.............................................2
III. Background and Need for the Legislation.........................3
IV. Committee Actions...............................................4
V. Summary of Major Provisions of the Bill, As Reported............4
VI. Section-by-Section Analysis, As Reported........................5
VII. Committee Views.................................................6
VIII. Cost Estimate...................................................6
IX. Congressional Budget Office Cost Estimate.......................6
X. Compliance with Public Law 104-4................................8
XI. Committee Oversight Findings and Recommendations................8
XII. Statement on General Performance Goals and Objectives...........8
XIII. Constitutional Authority Statement..............................8
XIV. Federal Advisory Committee Statement............................8
XV. Congressional Accountability Act................................8
XVI. Earmark Identification..........................................8
XVII. Statement on Preemption of State, Local, or Tribal Law..........8
XVIII.Committee Recommendations.......................................8

XIX. Proceedings of the Subcommittee Markup..........................9
XX. Proceedings of the Full Committee Markup.......................20

I. AMENDMENT

The amendment is as follows:
Strike all after the enacting clause and insert the
following:

SECTION 1. HIGH EFFICIENCY GAS TURBINES.

(a) In General.--The Secretary of Energy shall carry out a multiyear,
multiphase program of research, development, and technology
demonstration to improve the efficiency of gas turbines used in
combined cycle power generation systems and to identify the
technologies that ultimately will lead to gas turbine combined cycle
efficiency of 65 percent.
(b) Program Elements.--The program under this section shall--
(1) support first-of-a-kind engineering and detailed gas
turbine design for megawatt-scale and utility-scale electric
power generation, including--
(A) high temperature materials, including
superalloys, coatings, and ceramics;
(B) improved heat transfer capability;
(C) manufacturing technology required to construct
complex three-dimensional geometry parts with improved
aerodynamic capability;
(D) combustion technology to produce higher firing
temperature while lowering nitrogen oxide and carbon
monoxide emissions per unit of output;
(E) advanced controls and systems integration;
(F) advanced high performance compressor technology;
and
(G) validation facilities for the testing of
components and subsystems;
(2) include technology demonstration through component
testing, subscale testing, and full scale testing in existing
fleets;
(3) include field demonstrations of the developed technology
elements so as to demonstrate technical and economic
feasibility; and
(4) assess overall combined cycle system performance.
(c) Program Goals.--The goals of the multiphase program established
under subsection (a) shall be--
(1) in phase I--
(A) to develop the conceptual design of advanced high
efficiency gas turbines that can achieve at least 62
percent combined cycle efficiency on a lower heating
value basis; and
(B) to develop and demonstrate the technology
required for advanced high efficiency gas turbines that
can achieve at least 62 percent combined cycle
efficiency on a lower heating value basis; and
(2) in phase II, to develop the conceptual design for
advanced high efficiency gas turbines that can achieve at least
65 percent combined cycle efficiency on a lower heating value
basis.
(d) Proposals.--Within 180 days after the date of enactment of this
Act, the Secretary shall solicit grant and contract proposals from
industry, universities, and other appropriate parties for conducting
activities under this Act. In selecting proposals, the Secretary shall
emphasize--
(1) the extent to which the proposal will stimulate the
creation or increased retention of jobs in the United States;
and
(2) the extent to which the proposal will promote and enhance
United States technology leadership.
(e) Competitive Awards.--The provision of funding under this section
shall be on a competitive basis with an emphasis on technical merit.
(f) Cost Sharing.--Section 988 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42
U.S.C. 16352) shall apply to an award of financial assistance made
under this section.
(g) Limits on Participation.--The limits on participation applicable
under section 999E of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 16375)
shall apply to financial assistance awarded under this section.
(h) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to the Secretary for carrying out this section $65,000,000
for each of fiscal years 2011 through 2014.

II. PURPOSE OF THE BILL

The purpose of H.R. 3029 is to establish a research,
development, and technology demonstration program to improve
the efficiency of gas turbines used in power generation
systems.

III. BACKGROUND AND NEED FOR THE LEGISLATION

Natural gas is playing an increasingly important role in
the nation's electric generation portfolio. Gas-fired plants
now comprise about 20% of the total electric generation
portfolio in the U.S. after falling from 24% in 1970 to 12% in
1985. The majority of electric generation capacity additions in
the last decade have been gas-fired. For example, the Energy
Information Administration (EIA) reported that, in 2000, of the
23,453 megawatts of total new electric capacity added in the
U.S. almost 95 percent, or 22,238 MW were natural gas-fired
additions. In 2009 it is estimated that over 50 percent of
additions will be gas-fired. Given the likelihood of tightening
environmental regulations on power plants and the recent
confirmation of sizeable new domestic natural gas resources,
the EIA estimates that natural gas-fired electricity generation
will increase dramatically over the next 20 years.
The use of natural gas for electricity production has a
number of benefits. Like coal, most natural gas used in the
United States is domestically produced and estimates of
domestic reserves are increasing. However, natural gas is
generally cleaner than other fossil fuels, with significantly
lower emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen
oxides (NOX), sulfur dioxide (SO2) and
other pollutants and particulates. Furthermore, natural gas-
fired plants can be constructed and commissioned in relatively
short periods of time and require comparatively lower levels of
capital investment than other large centralized electric
generation facilities. Gas plants also have high operating
flexibility, including the ability to power up and down in
short periods of time.
Natural gas is used to generate electricity in a variety of
ways. The first is through a steam generation unit, where
natural gas is burned in a boiler to heat water and produce
steam. The steam is then used to turn a turbine to generate
electricity. The second is through gas turbines where, instead
of heating steam to turn a turbine, natural gas is mixed with
air and ignited, which increases the temperature, velocity and
volume of the gas flow. The hot gas is then used to turn the
turbine directly, and generate electricity. The final way is
through combined-cycle units that utilize both a gas turbine
and a steam unit. The gas turbine operates in much the same way
as a normal gas turbine, using the hot gases released from
burning natural gas to turn a turbine and generate electricity.
However, in combined-cycle plants, the waste heat from the gas
turbine process is used to generate steam, which is then used
to generate electricity much like a steam unit, resulting in
significantly higher efficiency than simple steam generation or
gas turbine cycles alone.
Efficiency enhancements for both combined cycle and simple
cycle gas turbine units could result in significantly reduced
natural gas usage and emissions. For example, General Electric
estimates that a one-percentage point improvement in efficiency
applied to its existing F Class fleet would result in
CO2 emission reductions of 4.4 million tons per
year, while also providing savings of more than a billion
dollars per year in fuel costs.
In 1992, the Department of Energy, through the Office of
Fossil Energy and the Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable
Energy, developed the Advanced Turbine Systems Program to
address a temperature barrier that, for all practical purposes,
capped efficiencies for turbine-based power generating systems.
Above 2300 degree F, conventional cooling technologies were
insufficient to protect the turbine blades and other internal
components from heat degradation. Because higher temperatures
generally correlate with higher efficiencies (ie. faster
turbine speeds), this effectively limited the generating
efficiency at which a turbine power plant could convert the
energy in the fuel into electricity.
Nine years after the development of the Advanced Turbine
Systems Program, the Department of Energy and its private
partners produced ``breakthrough'' turbine systems that pushed
firing temperatures to 2,600 degrees F and permitted combined
cycle efficiencies that surpassed 60%. Among the innovations
that emerged from the Department's Advanced Turbine Systems
program were single-crystal turbine blades and thermal barrier
coatings (TBC) that could withstand the high inlet
temperatures, along with new firing techniques to stabilize
combustion and minimize nitrogen oxide formation.

IV. COMMITTEE ACTIONS

H.R. 3029 was introduced on June 24, 2009 by Representative
Paul Tonko.
On July 21, 2009 the Subcommittee on Energy and Environment
met to consider H.R. 3029. No amendments were offered. The bill
was favorably reported by voice vote to the Full Committee.
On July 29, 2009 the Full Committee met to consider H.R.
3029. The following three amendments were offered:
1. An amendment by Mr. Bilbray specifying that the program
support first-of-a-kind engineering and detailed gas turbine
design for ``megawatt-scale'' electric power generation, in
addition to utility-scale electric power generation. The
amendment was adopted by voice vote.
2. An amendment by Mr. Bilbray requiring that funding under
the bill be provided on a competitive basis with an emphasis on
technical merit. The amendment was adopted by voice vote.
3. An amendment by Ms. Kosmas requiring the Secretary to
solicit grant and contract proposals from ``industry,
universities, and other appropriate parties'' for activities
under the bill. The amendment was adopted by voice vote.
The bill, as amended, was favorably reported by voice vote
to the House.

V. SUMMARY OF MAJOR PROVISIONS OF THE BILL, AS REPORTED

H.R. 3029 requires the Secretary of Energy to carry out a
multiyear, multiphase program of research, development, and
technology demonstration to improve the efficiency of gas
turbines used in power generation systems and to identify the
technologies that will ultimately lead to gas turbine combined
cycle efficiency of 65 percent.
The bill requires that the program support engineering and
gas turbine design for utility-scale and megawatt-scale
electric power generation. Under the bill, this includes high
temperature materials, improved heat transfer capability,
manufacturing technology, combustion technology, advanced
controls and systems integration, advanced high performance
compressor technology, and validation facilities for the
testing of components and subsystems. It also requires that the
program include technology and field demonstrations, and assess
overall combined cycle system performance.
H.R. 3029 sets out specific program goals. In Phase I, the
goal is to develop the conceptual design of and demonstrate the
technology required for advanced high efficiency gas turbines
that can achieve at least 62 percent combined cycle efficiency
on a lower heating value basis. In Phase II, the goal is to
develop the conceptual design for advanced high efficiency gas
turbines that can achieve at least 65 percent combined cycle
efficiency.
The bill requires that the Secretary solicit proposals from
industry, universities, and other appropriate parties for
activities under the program within 180 days of enactment. The
bill requires the Secretary, in selecting proposals, to
emphasize the extent to which the proposal will stimulate the
creation or increased retention of jobs in the United States
and the extent to which the proposal will promote and enhance
United States technology leadership. Awards shall be made on a
competitive basis with emphasis on technical merit.
H.R. 3029 authorizes $65 million for each of fiscal years
2011 through 2014 for carrying out the program.

VI. SECTION-BY-SECTION ANALYSIS, AS REPORTED

Section 1. High efficiency gas turbines

(a) Instructs the Secretary of Energy to carry out a
program of research, development, and technology demonstration
to improve the efficiency of gas turbines and to identify the
technologies with the potential to improve efficiency of 65%.
(b) Outlines the program elements to include engineering
and design activities for both megawatt and utility-scale
turbines in high temperature materials, heat transfer,
manufacturing technology, combustion technology, controls and
systems integration, compressor technology, and validation
facilities. Calls for technology demonstrations on multiple
scales, field demonstrations, and overall performance
assessments.
(c) States the goals of the program to be, in Phase I, the
design, development and demonstration of gas turbine
technologies with efficiency of at least 62%; and in Phase II,
design of gas turbine technologies with efficiency of at least
65%.
(d) Instructs the Secretary to solicit proposals from
universities, industry and other appropriate parties, and calls
for applicants to emphasize the extent to which proposals will
stimulate job creation or retention in the U.S., and promote
U.S. technological leadership.
(e) Specifies that funding shall be on a competitive basis
with emphasis on technical merit.
(f) Specifies that cost-sharing requirements will be in
accordance with Section 988 of Energy Policy Act of 2005.
(g) Limits participation to companies that are U.S.-owned,
or owned by a parent entity organized under the laws of a
country that affords the U.S. similar rights.
(h) Authorizes $65 million per year for the fiscal years
2011 through 2014.

VII. COMMITTEE VIEWS

It is the Committee's view that natural gas will likely
account for an increasing percentage of the nation's electric
generation, and that advances to make natural gas-fired power
plants more efficient will result in an overall cleaner, more
secure energy portfolio in the U.S. The efficiency goals stated
in the bill represent very significant improvements in turbine
efficiency, while likely being technologically achievable with
more research and development.
The Department of Energy has engaged in various activities
to increase the efficiency of natural gas turbines in the past,
with promising results. However, current federal efforts are
not sufficient to advance the state of the technology far
beyond what is currently available, and many stakeholders in
the turbine industry are not likely to undertake the necessary
activities on their own. Therefore, a more robust and focused
Department of Energy effort is needed to improve efficiencies
of the nation's natural gas-fired power plants. Furthermore, it
is the committee's view that DOE-sponsored research and
development activities in gas turbines should result in
technological advancements that can be quickly deployed in new
turbine systems and, if possible, retrofitted onto existing
fleets of turbines.
While very sizable efficiency gains can be made in large,
utility-scale combined cycle systems, a comprehensive federal
program should seek advances in multiple scales of systems, and
in both combined and simple cycle. Furthermore, the program
should take into account the diversity of stakeholders and the
role of small businesses in driving innovation in the turbine
industry. In that regard, the Secretary should carefully
consider how to leverage the resources of a range of turbine
manufacturers.

VIII. COST ESTIMATE

A cost estimate and comparison prepared by the Director of
the Congressional Budget Office under section 402 of the
Congressional Budget Act of 1974 has been timely submitted to
the Committee on Science and Technology prior to the filing of
this report and is included in Section IX of this report
pursuant to House Rule XIII, clause 3(c)(3).
H.R. 3029 does not contain new budget authority, credit
authority, or changes in revenues or tax expenditures. Assuming
that the sums authorized under the bill are appropriated, H.R.
3029 does authorize additional discretionary spending, as
described in the Congressional Budget Office report on the
bill, which is contained in Section IX of this report.

IX. CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET OFFICE COST ESTIMATE

August 19, 2009.
Hon. Bart Gordon,
Chairman, Committee on Science and Technology,
House of Representatives, Washington, DC.
Dear Mr. Chairman: The Congressional Budget Office has
prepared the enclosed cost estimate for H.R. 3029, a bill to
establish a research, development, and technology demonstration
program to improve the efficiency of gas turbines used in
combined cycle power generation systems.
If you wish further details on this estimate, we will be
pleased to provide them. The CBO staff contact is Jeff LaFave.
Sincerely,
Douglas W. Elmendorf.
Enclosure.

H.R. 3029--A bill to establish a research, development, and technology
demonstration program to improve the efficiency of gas turbines
used in combined cycle power generation systems

Summary: H.R. 3029 would authorize the appropriation of
$260 million over the 2011-2014 period for the Department of
Energy (DOE) to improve the efficiency of turbines that use
natural gas to generate electricity. Assuming appropriation of
the authorized amounts, CBO estimates that implementing the
legislation would cost $221 million over the 2010-2014 period
and $39 million after 2014. Enacting the legislation would not
affect direct spending or revenues.
H.R. 3029 contains no intergovernmental or private-sector
mandates as defined in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (UMRA)
and would impose no costs on State, local, or tribal
governments.
Estimated cost to the Federal Government: The estimated
budgetary impact of H.R. 3029 is shown in the following table.
The costs of this legislation fall within budget function 250
(general science, space, and technology).

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By fiscal year, in millions of dollars--
--------------------------------------------------
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2010-2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CHANGES IN SPENDING SUBJECT TO APPROPRIATION
Authorization Level.......................................... 0 65 65 65 65 260
Estimated Outlays............................................ 0 36 55 65 65 221
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Basis of estimate: For this estimate, CBO assumes the bill
will be enacted near the end of fiscal year 2009 and that the
authorized amounts will be appropriated each year. Estimated
outlays are based on historical spending patterns for DOE
research programs.
H.R. 3029 would authorize the appropriation of $65 million
a year over the 2011-2014 period for research, development, and
demonstration activities related to gas turbines. The bill
would direct DOE to establish a research and development
program to improve the efficiency of turbines that use natural
gas to generate electricity. The bill also would require DOE to
demonstrate the feasibility of implementing new gas turbine
technologies.
Intergovernmental and private-sector impact: H.R. 3029
contains no intergovernmental or private-sector mandates as
defined in UMRA and would impose no costs on State, local, or
tribal governments.
Estimate prepared by: Federal costs: Jeff LaFave; Impact on
State, local, and tribal governments: Ryan Miller; Impact on
the private sector: Amy Petz.
Estimate approved by: Theresa Gullo, Deputy Assistant
Director for Budget Analysis.

X. COMPLIANCE WITH PUBLIC LAW 104-4

H.R. 3029 contains no unfunded mandates.

XI. COMMITTEE OVERSIGHT FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

The Committee on Science and Technology's oversight
findings and recommendations are reflected in the body of this
report.

XII. STATEMENT ON GENERAL PERFORMANCE GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Pursuant to clause 3(c) of House rule XIII, the goal of
H.R. 3029 is to establish a research, development, and
technology demonstration program to improve the efficiency of
gas turbines used in power generation systems.

XIII. CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY STATEMENT

Article I, section 8 of the Constitution of the United
States grants Congress the authority to enact H.R. 3029.

XIV. FEDERAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE STATEMENT

H.R. 3029 does not create any advisory committees.

XV. CONGRESSIONAL ACCOUNTABILITY ACT

The Committee finds that H.R. 3029 does not relate to the
terms and conditions of employment or access to public services
or accommodations within the meaning of section 102(b)(3) of
the Congressional Accountability Act (Public Law 104-1).

XVI. EARMARK IDENTIFICATION

H.R. 3029 does not contain any congressional earmarks,
limited tax benefits, or limited tariff benefits as defined in
House rule XII, clause 9.

XVII. STATEMENT ON PREEMPTION OF STATE, LOCAL, OR TRIBAL LAW

The bill is not intended to preempt any State, local, or
tribal law.

XVIII. COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS

On July 29, 2009, the Committee on Science and Technology
favorably reported H.R. 3029, as amended, by voice vote, and
recommended its enactment.

XIX: PROCEEDINGS OF THE MARKUP BY THE SUBCOMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND
ENVIRONMENT ON H.R. 3029, TO ESTABLISH A RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, AND
TECHNOLOGY DEMONSTRATION PROGRAM TO IMPROVE THE EFFICIENCY OF GAS
TURBINES USED IN COMBINED CYCLE POWER GENERATION SYSTEMS

----------

TUESDAY, JULY 21, 2009

House of Representatives,
Subcommittee on Energy and Environment,
Committee on Science,
Washington, DC.

The Subcommittee met, pursuant to call, at 2:03 p.m., in
Room 2318 of the Rayburn House Office Building, Hon. Brian
Baird [Chair of the Subcommittee] presiding.
Chair Baird. The Subcommittee will now come to order.
Pursuant to notice the Subcommittee on Energy and Environment
meets to consider the following measures: H.R. 3246, the
Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009, H.R. 3165, the Wind
Energy Research and Development Act of 2009, H.R. 3029, To
establish a research, development, and technology demonstration
program to improve the efficiency of gas turbines used in
combined cycle power generation systems, and H.R. 3247, To
establish a social and behavioral sciences research program at
the Department of Energy, and for other purposes.
As I just mentioned, this afternoon our committee is
considering those four bills. I will go into a bit more detail
now.
H.R. 3246 is authored by Representative Peters and co-
sponsored by Representative Biggert of our subcommittee. This
legislation authorizes research and development on different
classes of vehicles with the goal of reducing or eliminating
petroleum fuel use and their associated emissions.
H.R. 3165, the Wind Energy Research and Development Act of
2009, is offered by our colleague, Mr. Tonko. This legislation
authorizes several areas of research identified in a recent
report outlining the needs for expanding the use of wind-
powered electricity generation.
H.R. 3029 is also offered by the now prolific Mr. Tonko.
This bill establishes an R&D program to improve the efficiency
of gas turbines used in combined cycle power generation
systems. Today 15 percent of electric power is produced from
natural gas. This percentage is predicted to double over the
next decade. The investment cost for new power plants are very
high, and once built they operate for many decades. It is vital
we build them to be as efficient as possible from the outset,
and this legislation will help achieve that goal.
Finally, we will mark up H.R. 3247, a bill I introduced to
authorize a social and behavioral research program at the
Department of Energy. Technology development and investment are
only part of the solution to our energy problem. The decisions
each of us make every day have a significant impact on energy
production and consumption. It is important that we understand
why some technologies are more readily embraced than others,
and it is important that we know how to communicate effectively
about the nature of our energy challenge and know how to
empower individual citizens to participate in overcoming those
challenges.
The four bills we will consider today address important
energy technology needs and the need for more research on the
human factors that determine their acceptance and success. I
look forward to a productive markup. Thank you all for your
attendance and participation this afternoon.
I now recognize Mr. Inglis to present opening remarks.
[The prepared statement of Chair Baird follows:]

Prepared Statement of Chair Brian Baird

This afternoon the Subcommittee will consider four bills.
H.R. 3246, the Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009 is authored
by Rep. Peters and co-sponsored by Rep. Biggert of our subcommittee.
This legislation authorizes research and development on different
classes of vehicles with a goal of reducing or eliminating petroleum
fuel use and their associated emissions.
H.R. 3165, the Wind Energy Research and Development Act of 2009 is
authored by our colleague, Mr. Tonko. This legislation authorizes
several areas of research identified in a recent report outlining the
needs for expanding the use of wind powered electricity generation.
H.R. 3029, is also authored by Rep. Tonko. This bill establishes an
R&D program to improve the efficiency of gas turbines used in combined
cycle power generation systems. Today, 15 percent of our electric power
is produced from natural gas. This percentage is predicted to double
over the next decade. The investment costs for new power plants are
very high and, once built they operate for many decades. It is vital
that we build them to be as efficient as possible from the outset.
Finally, we will be marking up H.R. 3247. I introduced H.R. 3247
last week to authorize a social and behavioral research program at the
Department of Energy. Technology development and investment are only
part of the solution to our energy problem. The decisions each of us
make every day have a significant impact on energy production and
consumption. It is important that we understand why some technologies
are more readily embraced than others. And it is important that we know
how to communicate effectively about the nature of our energy
challenges and know how to empower individual citizens to participate
in overcoming them.
The four bills we will consider today address important energy
technology needs and the need for more research on the human factors
that determine their acceptance and success.
I look forward to a productive markup. Thank you all for your
attendance and participation this afternoon.

Mr. Inglis. Thank you, Mr. Chair, and I am looking forward
to discussing and improving the four pieces of legislation
before us today.
The Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009 will authorize
a vehicle technologies program at DOE. The bill realigns the
program to approach a wide variety of critical transportation
and technology research areas, with the goal of reducing
petroleum use and the related emissions.
A balanced and robust research program is necessary to
expand our mobility options, increase our national security,
and establish the United States as a world leader in auto and
truck design, manufacture, and transportation fuel development.
The second bill we will discuss today is the Wind Energy
Research and Development Act. As the Department of Energy and
the American Wind Energy Association have made clear, expanding
our wind-power generating capacity will require a significant
improvement in turbine technologies, forecasting capabilities,
energy storage, and the transmission grid.
Strengthening the research effort in wind energy will help
us move away from polluting fossil fuel energy, while creating
jobs in wind energy design, manufacturing, and operation.
H.R. 3029 will implement a short-term research,
development, and demonstration project at DOE to push gas
turbine combine cycle generating power generation systems to 65
percent efficiency. Natural gas is a clean-burning fuel
produced right here in the United States and is the fastest
growing source of new electricity capacity. Increasing turbine
efficiency will reduce fuel usage and corresponding emissions,
optimize our use of this limited resource, and lower
electricity costs.
Finally, H.R. 3247 establishes a social and behavioral
sciences research program at the Department of Energy. This
research is intended to help us better understand the way
individual decisions impact energy markets and energy
technology development.
I am aware of the National Science Foundation's work in
this area. I understand the Chair's desire to see this work
become an emphasis of DOE. I look forward to hearing how that
cross-pollenization may work, and I will have some questions
about how it would work.
Thank you again for the opportunity to work with you on
this legislation, Mr. Chair.
[The prepared statement of Mr. Inglis follows:]

Prepared Statement of Representative Bob Inglis

Good morning and thank you for holding this markup, Mr. Chairman.
I'm looking forward to discussing and improving the four pieces of
legislation before us today.
The Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009 will reauthorize the
Vehicle Technologies Program at DOE. The bill realigns the program to
approach a wide variety of critical transportation technology research
areas with the goal of reducing petroleum use and the related
emissions. A balanced and robust research program is necessary to
expand our mobility options, increase our national security, and
establish the United States as a world leader in auto and truck design
and manufacturing and transportation fuel development.
The second bill we'll address today, is the Wind Energy Research
and Development Act. As the Department of Energy and the American Wind
Energy Association have made clear, expanding our wind power generating
capacity will require significant improvement in turbine technologies,
forecasting capabilities, energy storage, and the transmission grid.
Strengthening the research effort in wind energy will help us move away
from polluting fossil fuel energy while creating jobs in wind energy
design, manufacturing, and operation.
H.R. 3029 will implement a short-term research, development, and
demonstration program at DOE to push gas turbine combined cycle
generating systems to 65 percent efficiency. Natural gas is a clean
burning fuel produced right here in the United States and is the
fastest growing source of new electricity capacity. Increasing turbine
efficiency will reduce fuel usage and corresponding emissions, optimize
our use of this limited resource, and lower electricity costs.
Finally, H.R. 3247 establishes a social and behavioral sciences
research program at the Department of Energy. This research is intended
to help us better understand the way individual decisions impact energy
markets and energy technology development. I'm aware of the National
Science Foundation's work in this area, and I understand the Chairman's
desire to see this work become an emphasis at the DOE. I look forward
to hearing how that cross-pollination might work.
Thank you again for the opportunity to work with you on this
legislation, Mr. Chairman.

Chair Baird. Thank you, Mr. Inglis. Members may place
statements in the record at this point.
We will now consider H.R. 3029, To establish a research,
development, and technology demonstration program to improve
the efficiency of gas turbines used in combined cycle power
generation systems. Again, Mr. Tonko is at a markup
regrettably, but we have had a very successful hearing on these
kinds of issues, and I applaud him for his leadership on this
legislation.
Clearly if we can improve the efficiency of gas turbines,
we can save a great deal of energy and reduce our ocean
acidification and global warming gases.
I would now recognize Mr. Inglis to present any remarks on
the bill.
Mr. Inglis. Thank you, Mr. Chair. This bill creates a
competitive program with the aim of identifying and achieving
the significant technological and materials breakthroughs that
are necessary to boost gas turbine combined cycle efficiency.
Higher gas turbine efficiency will help us get the most out of
our domestic natural gas resources, generate jobs in
engineering and turbine design, and leverage U.S. technological
expertise to keep us competitive in the global market.
I am happy to be a co-sponsor of this important
legislation, and I yield back, Mr. Chair.
[The prepared statement of Mr. Inglis follows:]

Prepared Statement of Representative Bob Inglis

This bill creates a competitive program with the aim of identifying
and achieving the significant technological and materials breakthroughs
necessary to boost gas turbine combined cycle efficiency. Higher gas
turbine efficiency will help us get the most out of our domestic
natural gas resources, generate jobs in engineering and turbine design,
and leverage U.S. technological expertise to keep us competitive in the
global market. I'm happy to be a co-sponsor of this important
legislation.

Chair Baird. I thank the gentleman from South Carolina.
[The prepared statement of Mr. Tonko follows:]

Prepared Statement of Representative Paul D. Tonko

Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Mr. Chairman, my bill, H.R. 3029, would establish a research,
development, and technology demonstration program to improve the
efficiency of gas turbines used in combined cycle power generation
systems. This legislation is vital if our country is once again going
to be an energy technology leader in the world. Currently, the United
States uses natural gas for nearly 20 percent of its power generation.
The most advanced gas turbines based systems at this time are capable
of reaching 60 percent efficiency.
The goal of this bill is for those same turbines to achieve 65
percent combined cycle efficiency. If this five percent increase of
efficiency is achieved, we will see numerous benefits as a country.
First, a one percentage-point improvement in efficiency would
result in CO2 emissions reductions of 4.4 million tons per
year and substantial reductions in other emissions such as NOX and SOX.
The technologies developed for this new program can be an essential
part of our response to climate change, both in this country and around
the world.
Secondly, the energy and fuel savings created by more efficient
turbines will help rate payers save more than a billion dollars per
year in fuel costs. Deployment of a 65 percent efficient gas turbine
throughout the country would result in significant reductions in fuel
use, leading to savings in electricity costs of $180 billion through
the year 2040.
Third, this bill promotes U.S. technology leadership, putting the
U.S. in a position to assume a greater share of the worldwide energy
market by creating and retaining high value domestic jobs in turbine
manufacturing.
Finally, I would like to thank Ranking Member Inglis for co-
sponsoring this legislation.
Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Chair Baird. Does anyone else wish to be recognized?
If not, I ask unanimous consent that the bill is considered
as read and open to amendment at any point. Without objection,
so ordered.
Are there any amendments that anyone wishes to offer to
this legislation?
If no, the vote is on the bill, H.R. 3029. All those in
favor say aye. All those opposed will say no. In the opinion of
the Chair the ayes have it.
I recognize myself to offer a motion. I move the
Subcommittee favorably report H.R. 3029 to the Full Committee.
Furthermore, I move the staff be instructed to prepare the
Subcommittee report and make necessary technical and conforming
changes to the bill in accordance with the recommendations of
the Subcommittee.
The question is on the motion to report the bill favorably.
Those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye.
Opposed, no. The ayes have it, and the bill is favorably
reported.
Without objection the motion to reconsider is laid upon the
table. Members will have two subsequent calendar days in which
to submit supplemental Minority or additional views on the
measure.
I want to thank Members for their attendance, staff for all
their good work. This concludes our Subcommittee markup.
[Whereupon, at 2:41 p.m., the Subcommittee was adjourned.]

Appendix

----------

H.R. 3029, Section-by-Section Analysis

Section-by-Section Analysis of
H.R. 3029, To establish a research, development, and
technology demonstration program to improve the
efficiency of gas turbines used in combined
cycle power generation systems

SECTION 1. HIGH EFFICIENCY GAS TURBINES

(a) Instructs the Secretary of Energy to carry out a program of
technology research, development, and demonstration to improve the
efficiency of gas turbines and to identify the technologies with the
potential to improve efficiency of 65 percent.
(b) Outlines the program elements to include engineering and design
activities in high temperature materials, heat transfer, manufacturing
technology, combustion technology, controls and systems integration,
compressor technology, and validation facilities. Calls for technology
demonstrations on multiple scales, field demonstrations, and overall
performance assessments.
(c) States the goals of the program to be, in Phase I, the design,
development and demonstration of gas turbine technologies with
efficiency of at least 62 percent; and in Phase II, design of gas
turbine technologies with efficiency of at least 65 percent.
(d) Calls for applicants to emphasize the extent to which proposals
will stimulate job creation or job retention in the U.S., and promote
U.S. technological leadership.
(e) Specifies that cost-sharing requirements will be in accordance
with Section 988 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005.
(f) Limits participation to firms that are U.S.-owned, or owned by
a parent entity organized under the laws of a country that affords
U.S.-owned firms similar rights.
(g) Authorizes $65 million per year for the fiscal years 2011
through 2014.

XX: PROCEEDINGS OF THE FULL COMMITTEE MARKUP ON H.R. 3029, TO ESTABLISH
A RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND TECHNOLOGY DEMONSTRATION PROGRAM TO IMPROVE
THE EFFICIENCY OF GAS TURBINES USED IN COMBINED CYCLE POWER GENERATION
SYSTEMS

----------

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2009

House of Representatives,
Committee on Science,
Washington, DC.

The Committee met, pursuant to call, at 10:00 a.m., in Room
2318 of the Rayburn House Office Building, Hon. Bart Gordon
[Chair of the Committee] presiding.
Chair Gordon. Good morning. The Committee will come to
order.
Pursuant to notice, the Committee on Science and Technology
meets to consider the following measures: H.R. 3246, the
Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009; H.R. 3165, the Wind
Energy Research and Development Act of 2009; H.R. 3029, To
establish a research, development and technology demonstration
program to improve the efficiency of gas turbines used in
combined cycle power generation systems, and H.R. 3247, To
establish a social and behavioral science research program at
the Department of Energy, and for other purposes. We will now
proceed with the markup.
This morning the Committee will consider four bills. H.R.
3246, the Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009, is authored
by our colleague, Mr. Peters, and co-sponsored by
Representative Biggert. I think we have a Michigan theme going
here. H.R. 3246 authorizes research and development on vehicles
with a goal of reducing or eliminating petroleum fuel base and
its associated emissions.
We will also consider H.R. 3165, the Wind Energy Research
and Development Act of 2009, and H.R. 3029, a bill to authorize
R&D and to improve the efficiency of gas turbines, both of
these bills authored by Mr. Tonko. H.R. 3165 authorizes R&D on
wind power. The specific areas of R&D were identified in a
recent report by the Department of Energy and the American Wind
Energy Association describing the areas of improvements needed
if we are to expand wind power electricity generation.
Currently, 15 percent of our electric power is produced
from natural gas. Over the next decade, this percentage is
predicted to double. The research and development authorized in
H.R. 3029 is intended to improve the efficiency of turbines
used in these combined cycle power generation systems.
Finally, we will be marking up H.R. 3247, a bill to
establish a social and behavioral research program at the
Department of Energy. H.R. 3247 was introduced by Dr. Baird,
who has been a champion of these areas of research throughout
his service on the Committee. It is important to understand why
some technologies are more readily adopted than others, and it
is important that we communicate to the public clearly about
the challenges and opportunities of becoming a more energy-
efficient society. H.R. 3247 will help us to accomplish these
important goals.
I now recognize Mr. Hall to present his remarks.
[The prepared statement of Chair Gordon follows:]

Prepared Statement of Chair Bart Gordon

This morning the Committee will consider four bills. H.R. 3246, the
Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009, is authored by our colleague,
Mr. Peters, and co-sponsored by Representative Biggert. I think we have
a Michigan theme going here. H.R. 3246 authorizes research and
development on vehicles with a goal of reducing or eliminating
petroleum fuel base and its associated emissions.
We will also consider H.R. 3165, the Wind Energy Research and
Development Act of 2009, and H.R. 3029, a bill to authorize R&D and to
improve the efficiency of gas turbines, both of these bills authored by
Mr. Tonko.
H.R. 3165 authorizes R&D on wind power. The specific areas of R&D
were identified in a recent report by the Department of Energy and the
American Wind Energy Association describing the areas of improvements
needed if we are to expand wind power electricity generation.
Currently, 15 percent of our electric power is produced from
natural gas. Over the next decade, this percentage is predicted to
double. The research and development authorized in H.R. 3029 is
intended to improve the efficiency of turbines used in these combined
cycle power generation systems. It is vital that utilities build new
plants to be as efficient as possible since the investment costs are
high and plants operate for many decades once they are brought online.
Finally, we will be marking up H.R. 3247, a bill to establish a
social and behavioral research program at the Department of Energy.
H.R. 3247 was introduced by Dr. Baird, who has been a champion of these
areas of research throughout his service on the Committee. People
determine the success or failure of new technologies. It is important
to understand why some technologies are more readily adopted than
others. And it is important that we communicate to the public clearly
about the challenges and opportunities of becoming a more energy
efficient society. H.R. 3247 will help us to accomplish these important
goals.
The four bills we have before us today target several important
energy research needs. I congratulate the Members for their work on
these bills, and I look forward to a productive markup. Thank you all
for your attendance and participation this morning.
I now recognize Mr. Hall to present his opening remarks.

Mr. Hall. I thank you, Mr. Chair.
Today we do meet to mark up these bills that you set out
there, and H.R. 3029 is to establish a research, development
and technology demonstration program to improve the efficiency
of gas turbines used in combined cycle power generation
systems, and H.R. 3247, to establish a social and behavioral
sciences research program at the Department of Energy, and I
will have some things to say about that one a little bit later,
especially about the author who is a very good friend of mine
and may need this bill. I don't know. These two boys from
California every now and then I think they need it, even
Sensenbrenner sometimes. We are going to have to really look at
this. Josh himself does now and then--I mean Roscoe, but he is
too old to be up here anyway. I better yield my time back right
now.
[The prepared statement of Mr. Hall follows:]

Prepared Statement of Representative Ralph M. Hall

Thank you Mr. Chairman. Today we meet to markup four bills. H.R.
3246, the Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009; H.R. 3165, the Wind
Energy Research and Development Act of 2009; H.R. 3029, To establish a
research, development, and technology demonstration program to improve
the efficiency of gas turbines used in combined cycle power generation
systems; and H.R. 3247, To establish a social and behavioral sciences
research program at the Department of Energy, and for other purposes.
I will not take up a lot of time talking about these bills in my
opening statement but will instead make any necessary comments when
each bill is brought up.
I would like to thank the staff on both sides for their hard work
in getting these bills and their amendments together and ready in such
a short period of time.
With that I yield back the balance of my time.

Chair Gordon. Are you sure you don't want to say something
about Mr. Neugebauer here before we proceed?
Mr. Hall. He and Boone Pickens got the wind in their
problem out in West Texas. Women complain about it blowing
their hair.
Chair Gordon. Yes, sir, so here we go. Members can place
statements in the record at any point.
[The prepared statement of Mr. Mitchell follows:]

Prepared Statement of Representative Harry E. Mitchell

Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Today we will mark up four pieces of legislation: H.R. 3246, the
Advanced Vehicle Technology Act, H.R. 3165, the Wind Energy Research
and Development Act, H.R. 3029, legislation to establish a research,
development, and technology demonstration program to improve the
efficiency of gas turbines used in combined cycle power generation
systems, and H.R. 3247, legislation to establish a social and
behavioral sciences research program at the Department of Energy.
I am especially pleased that we are considering H.R. 3165, the Wind
Energy Research and Development Act.
Wind energy, like solar energy, is a clean alternative energy
source that could not only help meet our energy needs, but it could
also be a boon to our economy.
According to a May 2008 report from the Department of Energy,
current U.S. land-based and offshore wind resources are sufficient to
supply the electrical energy needs of the U.S. several times over.
H.R. 3165 would take important steps in advancing wind energy
research efforts. Specifically, this bill would require the DOE to
focus research and development on improving the energy efficiency,
reliability, and capacity of wind turbines, optimizing the design and
adaptability of wind energy systems, and reducing the cost of wind
energy systems. This legislation would also establish a wind
demonstration program.
I urge my colleagues to support this important measure, and I yield
back.

Chair Gordon. We will now consider H.R. 3029, To establish
a research, development and technology demonstration program to
improve the efficiency of gas turbines used in combined cycle
power generation systems. I recognize the gentleman from New
York, Mr. Tonko, to describe the bill.
Mr. Tonko. Thank you, Mr. Chair. You just highlighted the
core substance of H.R. 3029. This legislation is vital if our
country is once again going to be an energy technology leader
in the world.
Currently, the United States uses natural gas for nearly 20
percent of its power generation. The most advanced gas turbine-
based systems at this time are capable of reaching 60 percent
efficiency. The goal of this bill is for those same turbines to
achieve 65 percent combined cycle efficiency. A one percentage
point improvement in efficiency would result in CO2
emissions reductions of 4.4 million tons per year and
substantial reductions in other emissions such as NOX and SOX.
The energy and fuel savings created by more efficient turbines
will help rate payers save more than $1 billion per year in
fuel costs. Deployment of a 65 percent efficient gas turbine
throughout the country would result in significant reductions
in fuel use, leading to savings in electricity costs of
somewhat $180 billion through the year 2040. In addition to the
environmental benefits, energy and fuel savings, this bill
promotes United States technology leadership, putting the
United States in a position to assume a greater share of the
worldwide energy market by creating and retaining high-value
domestic jobs in turbine manufacturing.
I know that my colleagues, Mr. Bilbray and Ms. Kosmas, have
amendments to the bill. I thank them for their input and again
am supportive of their amendments.
Mr. Chair, I yield back the balance of my time.
[The prepared statement of Mr. Tonko follows:]

Prepared Statement of Representative Paul D. Tonko

Thank you, Mr. Chairman,
Mr. Chairman, my bill, H.R. 3029, would establish a research,
development, and technology demonstration program to improve the
efficiency of gas turbines used in combined cycle power generation
systems. This legislation is vital if our country is once again going
to be an energy technology leader in the world. Currently, the United
States uses natural gas for nearly 20 percent of its power generation.
The most advanced gas turbines based systems at this time are capable
of reaching 60 percent efficiency. The goal of this bill is for those
same turbines to achieve 65 percent combined cycle efficiency.
A one percentage-point improvement in efficiency would result in
CO2 emissions reductions of 4.4 million tons per year and
substantial reductions in other emissions such as NOX and SOX.
The energy and fuel savings created by more efficient turbines will
help rate payers save more than a billion dollars per year in fuel
costs. Deployment of a 65 percent efficient gas turbine throughout the
country would result in significant reductions in fuel use, leading to
savings in electricity costs of $180 billion through the year 2040.
In addition, to the environmental benefits, energy and fuel savings
this bill promotes U.S. technology leadership, putting the U.S. in a
position to assume a greater share of the worldwide energy market by
creating and retaining high value domestic jobs in turbine
manufacturing.
I know that my colleagues Mr. Bilbray and Ms. Kosmas have
amendments on this bill. I thank them for their input and am supportive
of those amendments.
Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Chair Gordon. Thank you, Mr. Tonko.
Mr. Hall is recognized.
Mr. Hall. Mr. Chair, I support H.R. 3029, To establish a
research, development and technology demonstration program to
improve the efficiency of gas turbines used in combined cycle
power generation systems with a footnote. I will admit that at
first I was a little apprehensive in that it seemed as though
the bill would benefit one company, but we have been assured
that this is not the case. My colleague, Mr. Bilbray, will also
be offering an amendment that will expand the number of
entities eligible to participate in the program. While I would
have preferred a hearing to discuss the merits of this bill
before its last-minute inclusion in the Waxman-Markey cap-and-
trade bill and before the Subcommittee markup last week, I
won't oppose what I consider a very worthy goal of efficiency
enhancements to gas turbine combined cycle units, which could
result in significantly reduced natural gas usage and CO2
emissions.
Again, I thank Mr. Tonko for his work on the bill. He has
been a very busy man. With that, I yield back my time.
[The prepared statement of Mr. Hall follows:]

Prepared Statement of Representative Ralph M. Hall

Mr. Chairman, I support H.R. 3029, To establish a research,
development, and technology demonstration program to improve the
efficiency of gas turbines used in combined cycle power generation
systems with a footnote. I will admit that at first I was a little
apprehensive in that it seemed as though the bill would benefit one
company, but I have been assured that that is not the case. My
colleague, Mr. Bilbray will also be offering an amendment that will
expand the number of entities eligible to participate in the program.
While I would have preferred a hearing to discuss the merits of this
bill before its last-minute inclusion in the Waxman-Markey cap-and-
trade bill and before the Subcommittee markup last week, I will not
oppose what I consider a worthy goal of efficiency enhancements to gas
turbine combined cycle units which could result in significantly
reduced natural gas usage and CO2 emissions. Again, I thank
Mr. Tonko for his work on this bill. You have been a very busy man.
With that I yield back the balance of my time.

[The prepared statement of Mr. Inglis follows:]

Prepared Statement of Representative Bob Inglis

Chair Gordon. Does anyone else wish to be recognized? Then
I ask unanimous consent that the bill is considered as read and
open to amendment at any point and that the Members proceed
with the amendments in order of the roster. Without objection,
so ordered.
The first amendment on the roster is an amendment offered
by the gentleman from California, Mr. Bilbray. Are you ready to
proceed with your amendment?
Mr. Bilbray. Yes, Mr. Chair, I have an amendment at the
desk.
Chair Gordon. The Clerk will report the amendment.
The Clerk. Amendment to H.R. 3029, amendment number 032,
offered by Mr. Bilbray of California.
Mr. Bilbray. I will ask unanimous consent that the----
Chair Gordon. I ask unanimous consent, if that is okay, to
dispense with the reading. Without objection, so ordered.
I recognize the gentleman from California to explain his
amendment.
Mr. Bilbray. Excuse me, Mr. Chair. Once a mayor, always a
mayor.
First of all, for public disclosure, I want to make it
clear that as far as I know, I own no stock in natural gas in
any form but I do take exception to the Committee's report on
paragraph 2 on this bill where it makes a reference to the fact
that the use of natural gas for electrical generation produces
generally cleaner. Let me say this. It is extremely cleaner
than other fossil fuels, so just for the record, I want to let
everybody know, this is a great technology from an air
pollution point of view.
My amendment just tries to make sure that the research does
not pick out just large units but also recognizes that we need
a diversity in units, especially the fact, Mr. Chair, that we
are going to need natural gas to be able to fill the gap
between those other zero-emission technologies that are
available that tend to be larger and fill those gaps into where
you can have smaller units that are much closer to the source
of consumption, thus reducing the inefficiency of long
transmission. This research just sort of gives the flexibility
that we should be looking at large, medium and small and not
restricted to one size, and with that, basically it is self-
explanatory. This is an application that I think we are going
to find not just in mega cities but applications in those rural
areas that will need a clean alternative to large, centralized
generation facilities, and this technology can produce it and
produce it in a manner that is what we call turnkey. Basically
gas turbine is very, very efficient for those smaller units,
and I yield back, Mr. Chair.
Chair Gordon. Thank you, Mr. Bilbray. Is there further
discussion on the amendment? All in favor, say aye. Those
opposed, no. The ayes have it and the amendment is agreed to.
The second amendment on the roster is an amendment offered
also by the gentleman from California, Mr. Bilbray. Are you
ready to proceed with your amendment?
Mr. Bilbray. Yes, Mr. Chair.
Chair Gordon. The Clerk will report the amendment.
The Clerk. Amendment to H.R. 3029, amendment number 001,
offered by Mr. Bilbray of California.
Chair Gordon. I ask unanimous consent to dispense with the
reading. Without objection, so ordered.
I recognize the gentleman for five minutes to explain the
amendment.
Mr. Bilbray. Mr. Chair, this is very simple. I think it
stands in the spirit of everyone here and that is that there
should be competitive bidding in this process and we keep this
open, competitive. Competition is not only a very efficient way
of doing it, it is what our taxpayers have always demanded. We
keep it open, we keep it competitive, keep the system honest.
That speaks for itself. I yield back.
Chair Gordon. Is there further discussion on the amendment?
If no, the vote occurs on the amendment. All in favor, say aye.
Those opposed, no. The ayes have it. The amendment is agreed
to.
The third amendment on the roster is an amendment offered
by the gentlelady from Florida, Ms. Kosmas. Are you ready to
proceed with your amendment?
Ms. Kosmas. I have an amendment at the desk.
Chair Gordon. The Clerk will report the amendment.
The Clerk. Amendment to H.R. 3029, amendment number 002,
offered by Ms. Kosmas of Florida.
Chair Gordon. I ask unanimous consent to dispense with the
reading. Without objection, so ordered.
I recognize the gentlelady for five minutes to explain her
amendment.
Ms. Kosmas. Thank you, Mr. Chair. I would like to thank Mr.
Tonko for introducing this important bill that will advance new
energy efficiency technology and move Americans down the path
to energy independence.
My amendment to H.R. 3029 will enable businesses and
universities to participate in and help shape this new R&D
program by requiring the Secretary of Energy to solicit grant
and contract proposals from industry, universities and other
appropriate parties. The addition of these institutions will
ensure that our entire knowledge base is utilized to advance
energy-efficient technology. Clean energy technology is a
growing field and we must do all that we can to support such an
important industry. For example, small businesses such as
Florida Turbine Technologies and universities such as the
University of Central Florida can provide valuable expertise
and real-world experience that can make substantial
contributions to DOE's research programs and the overall energy
sector.
Investing in and improving the efficiency of abundant
domestic energy sources such as natural gas and harnessing the
innovative capabilities of small businesses and universities is
vital to developing new technologies that will create jobs,
reduce greenhouse gases and strengthen national security. I ask
my colleagues for their support, and I yield back.
[The prepared statement of Ms. Kosmas follows:]

Prepared Statement of Representative Suzanne M. Kosmas

Thank you Mr. Chairman. And I would like to thank Mr. Tonko for
introducing such an important bill that will advance new energy
efficiency technology and move Americans down the path to energy
independence.
My amendment to H.R. 3029 will enable businesses and universities
to participate in and help shape this new R&D program by requiring the
Secretary of Energy to solicit grant and contract proposals from
industry, universities, and other appropriate parties. The addition of
these institutions will ensure that our entire knowledge base is
utilized to advance energy efficient technologies.
Clean energy technology is a growing field and we must do all we
can to support such an important industry. Small businesses such as
Florida Turbine Technologies and universities such as the University of
Central Florida can provide valuable expertise and real world
experience that can make substantial contributions to DOE's research
programs and the overall energy sector.
Investing in and improving the efficiency of abundant domestic
energy sources such as natural gas and harnessing the innovative
capabilities of small businesses and universities is vital to
developing new technologies that will create jobs, reduce greenhouse
gases, and strengthen national security.
I ask my colleagues for their support and I yield back.

Chair Gordon. Thank you, Ms. Kosmas.
Is there further discussion? If note, the vote occurs on
the amendment--oh, excuse me. Ms. Biggert.
Ms. Biggert. Thank you, Mr. Chair. I just have one question
of the author, and that is, you talk about the universities and
others. Are the National labs included in this, do you know?
Ms. Kosmas. I think there is nothing in my language that
would prohibit that.
Ms. Biggert. I just wondered if it was in the bill, or why
they wouldn't have been included in the amendment.
Ms. Kosmas. I didn't consider it, frankly, but I don't
think there is anything in my amendment that would prevent that
from being made part of it.
Chair Gordon. If Ms. Biggert would yield, why don't we let
Mr. King address that.
The Counsel. There is nothing in the bill that would
preclude National labs from being included or eligible, but it
is not explicitly stated that they are, so----
Ms. Biggert. All right. Thank you.
Chair Gordon. Thank you, Ms. Biggert. I think we both agree
that our National labs are great resources for the country.
Is there further discussion on the amendment? If note, the
vote occurs on the amendment. All in favor, say aye. Opposed,
no. The ayes have it. The amendment is agreed to.
Are there other amendments? If no, the vote is on the bill,
H.R. 3029 as amended. All those in favor, say aye. All those
opposed will say no. In the opinion of the Chair, the ayes have
it.
I now recognize Mr. Tonko for a motion.
Mr. Tonko. Thank you, Chair Gordon. I move that the
Committee favorably report H.R. 3029 as amended to the House
with the recommendation that the bill do pass. Furthermore, I
move that staff be instructed to prepare the legislative report
and make necessary technical and conforming changes and that
the Chair take all necessary steps to bring the bill before the
House for consideration.
Chair Gordon. Thank you, Mr. Tonko.
The question is on the motion to report the bill favorably.
Those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye.
Opposed, no. The ayes have it. The bill is favorably reported.
Without objection, the motion to reconsider is laid upon
the table. Members will have two subsequent calendar days in
which to submit supplemental Minority or additional views on
the measure.
Chair Gordon. This concludes our Committee markup.
[Whereupon, at 12:53 p.m., the Committee was adjourned.]

Appendix

----------

Amendment Roster