[House Report 118-699]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
118th Congress } { Report
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
2d Session } { 118-699
======================================================================
NEXT GENERATION PIPELINES RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ACT
_______
September 20, 2024.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on
the State of the Union and ordered to be printed
_______
Mr. Lucas, from the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology,
submitted the following
R E P O R T
[To accompany H.R. 7073]
The Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, to whom
was referred the bill (H.R. 7073) to improve public-private
partnerships and increase Federal research, development, and
demonstration related to the evolution of next generation
pipeline systems, and for other purposes, having considered the
same, reports favorably thereon with an amendment and
recommends that the bill as amended do pass.
CONTENTS
Page
Purpose and Summary.............................................. 6
Background and Need for Legislation.............................. 7
Legislative History.............................................. 7
Section-by-Section............................................... 7
Related Committee Hearings....................................... 9
Committee Consideration.......................................... 10
Roll Call Votes.................................................. 10
Application of Law to the Legislative Branch..................... 12
Statement of Oversight Findings and Recommendations of the
Committee...................................................... 12
Statement of General Performance Goals and Objectives............ 12
Duplication of Federal Programs.................................. 12
Federal Advisory Committee Act................................... 12
Unfunded Mandate Statement....................................... 12
Earmark Identification........................................... 12
Committee Cost Estimate.......................................... 12
New Budget Authority, Entitlement Authority, and Tax Expenditures 13
Congressional Budget Office Cost Estimate........................ 13
Changes to Existing Law Made by the Bill, as Reported............ 13
Exchange of Letters.............................................. 19
The amendment is as follows:
Strike all after the enacting clause and insert the
following:
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Next Generation Pipelines Research and
Development Act''.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Department.--The term ``Department'' means the Department
of Energy.
(2) Eligible entity.--The term ``eligible entity'' means--
(A) an institution of higher education (as such term
is defined in section 101(a) of the Higher Education
Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001(a))), including
historically Black colleges and universities (within
the meaning of the term ``part B institution'' in
section 322 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20
U.S.C. 1061)), Tribal colleges and universities (as
such term is defined in section 316 of the Higher
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1059c)), and minority
serving institutions (including the entities described
in any of paragraphs (1) through (7) of section 371(a)
of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
1067q(a)));
(B) a nonprofit research organization;
(C) a National Laboratory (as such term is defined in
section 2 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C.
15801));
(D) a private commercial entity;
(E) a partnership or consortium of two or more
entities described in subparagraphs (A) through (D)
that leverages existing Department efforts; or
(F) any other entity the Secretary determines
appropriate.
(3) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of
Energy.
(4) Technical standards.--The term ``technical standard'' has
the meaning given such term in section 12(d)(5) of the National
Technology Transfer and Advancement Act of 1995 (15 U.S.C. 272
note).
SEC. 3. COORDINATION.
In carrying out this Act--
(1) the Secretary shall avoid unnecessary duplication and
achieve shared mission goals by coordinating with the
Administrator of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety
Administration of the Department of Transportation and across
all relevant program offices at the Department of Energy,
including--
(A) the Office of Science;
(B) the Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon
Management;
(C) the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable
Energy;
(D) the Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and
Emergency Response;
(E) the Advanced Research Projects Agency--Energy;
(F) the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations; and
(G) any other cross-cutting program office determined
appropriate;
(2) the Secretary of Transportation shall ensure
participation of and coordination with the Secretary of Energy
of--
(A) the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety
Administration of the Department of Transportation; and
(B) any other program office of the Department of
Transportation determined appropriate; and
(3) the Secretary shall coordinate with the Director of the
National Institute of Standards and Technology, the Secretary
of the Interior, and the heads of other relevant Federal
agencies, as appropriate.
SEC. 4. ADVANCED PIPELINE MATERIALS AND TECHNOLOGIES DEMONSTRATION
INITIATIVE.
(a) In General.--Subtitle E of title III of division D of the
Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Public Law 117-58) is amended
by adding at the end the following new section:
``SEC. 40344. ADVANCED PIPELINE MATERIALS AND TECHNOLOGIES
DEMONSTRATION INITIATIVE.
``(a) Establishment of Initiative.--The Secretary shall establish a
demonstration initiative (in this section referred to as the
`Initiative') under which the Secretary, through a competitive merit
review process, shall award financial assistance to eligible entities
to carry out demonstration projects on low- to mid-technology readiness
level subjects to achieve deployment of technologies that--
``(1) are applicable to pipelines and associated
infrastructure, including liquefied natural gas facilities and
underground and above ground gas and liquid fuel storage
facilities; and
``(2) involve the development of next generation pipeline
systems, components, and related technologies.
``(b) Demonstration Project Focus Areas.--In carrying out the
Initiative, the Secretary shall select demonstration projects that best
advance research undertaken by the Department and the Department of
Transportation and incorporate a range of technology focus areas, which
may include the following:
``(1) Advanced leak detection and mitigation tools and
technologies.
``(2) Novel materials, including alloy and nonmetallic
materials, to improve integrity for new and existing pipelines,
such as pipeline coatings, sleeves, and liners, and corrosion
resistant materials, including maximum and minimum flow rates
and immunity to electrical discharge processes.
``(3) Technologies and methods for retrofitting existing
pipelines, resolving material compatibility issues, and
minimizing leakage, such as field protective coatings and
material treatment.
``(4) Advanced manufacturing approaches for producing,
fitting, and coupling pipelines, including the fabrication of
higher performance pipeline materials and new extrusion
technologies or methods to join ultra-high strength and
corrosion resistant materials at a scale for distribution.
``(5) Advanced sensor technologies and processes that enable
real-time or in situ monitoring of pipeline assets to assess
and mitigate leaks, both internal and external to the pipeline,
which may include the following:
``(A) Wireless sensors, such as surface acoustic wave
sensors.
``(B) Advanced and cost-effective electrochemical
sensors.
``(C) Distributed fiber optic sensors.
``(D) Autonomous sensor systems, including uncrewed
aircraft.
``(E) Optical methods.
``(F) Multi-use platforms for diverse sources.
``(G) Hybrid data-analysis platforms.
``(6) Advanced computational, data analytics, and machine
learning models to achieve the following:
``(A) Multiscale modeling, characterization, and
optimization of transmission and distribution systems
and components to aid in planning for optimized and
resilient infrastructure.
``(B) Correlation between sensor and emissions data
at all operational points and across a variety of
scales to assure system integrity spanning large areas.
``(C) Accurate material lifecycle predictions and
simulation platforms to forecast pipeline health.
``(D) Secure real time autonomous monitoring and
repair capabilities.
``(E) Mapping and monitoring of structural health
parameters, such as corrosion.
``(7) Self-healing and self-repair functionalities, including
by chemical treatment methods.
``(8) Autonomous robotic and patch technologies for
inspection and repair.
``(9) Dynamic compressor technologies, including retrofit
kits for existing compressor systems.
``(10) Strategies and technologies for integrated
cybersecurity considerations and countering cyberattacks.
``(11) Technologies and methods to reduce potential
environmental impacts, including at the atmospheric and
subsurface level, associated with pipelines, liquefied natural
gas facilities, and gas and liquid fuel storage facilities,
such as equipment failure.
``(12) Tools to evaluate geographical pipeline data for the
feasibility of repurposing existing infrastructure for safe and
effective transport and use of alternative fuels, blends, and
carbon dioxide.
``(13) Tools and technologies applicable to improving the
safety, operation, and efficiency of liquefied natural gas
facilities and gas and liquid fuel storage facilities.
``(c) Selection Requirements.--In selecting eligible entities for
demonstration projects under the Initiative, the Secretary shall, to
the maximum extent practicable, take the following actions:
``(1) Encourage regional diversity among eligible entities,
including participation by such entities located in rural
States.
``(2) Prioritize technological diversity among eligible
entities.
``(3) Prioritize a diverse mix of energy, substances, fuel
sources, and byproducts, including the following:
``(A) Gas and liquid hydrocarbons, including natural
gas, renewable natural gas, methane, ethane, and
liquefied natural gas.
``(B) Carbon dioxide.
``(C) Hydrogen.
``(D) Biofuels.
``(E) Water.
``(F) Substances in the hydrogen supply chain,
including ammonia and liquid organic hydrogen carriers.
``(G) Blends of gases or liquids, including hydrogen
blends.
``(H) Any other source the Secretary determines
appropriate.
``(4) Prioritize projects that leverage and are complementary
to existing energy infrastructure.
``(5) Prioritize projects that leverage matching funds from
non-Federal sources.
``(6) Ensure that selected projects are coordinated with or
expand on the existing technology demonstration programs of the
Department.
``(7) Evaluate projects and topics for technical performance
and economic feasibility as part of lifecycle assessments for
return on investment impact.
``(8) Prioritize projects that can quantifiably reduce the
environmental impacts of pipelines and associated
infrastructure on air, water, or soil quality in all regions of
the United States, especially in underserved and rural
communities.
``(d) Location.--To the maximum extent practicable, demonstration
projects under the Initiative shall be located on sites with existing
research infrastructure or with the ability to coordinate with existing
Department user facilities and research centers.
``(e) Authorization of Appropriations.--Out of funds authorized to be
appropriated for--
``(1) the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy,
and
``(2) the Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management,
pursuant to paragraphs (1) and (6), respectively, of section 10771 of
subtitle O of title VI of the Research and Development, Competition,
and Innovation Act (enacted as division B of Public Law 117-167), there
is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Energy to carry
out this section $45,000,000 for fiscal year 2025, and $50,000,000 for
each of fiscal years 2026 through 2029.
``(f) Sunset.--This section shall terminate five years after the date
of the enactment of this section.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of contents in section 1(b) of the
Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is amended by inserting after
the item relating to section 40343 the following new item:
``Sec. 40344. Advanced pipeline materials and technologies
demonstration initiative.''.
SEC. 5. JOINT RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM.
(a) In General.--Subject to the availability of appropriations, the
Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation and the
Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and in
coordination with the demonstration initiative established pursuant to
section 40344 of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Public Law
117-58), as added by section 4, shall establish within the Department a
joint research and development program (referred to in this Act as the
``Joint Program'') to carry out research projects that--
(1) develop cost-effective advanced materials and
technologies for pipeline transportation systems at different
scales;
(2) enable the commercialization of innovative materials and
technologies for pipeline transportation systems;
(3) support the development of technical standards of
innovative materials and technologies for pipeline
transportation systems; and
(4) are at a low technology readiness level and not pursued
by the Pipeline Safety Research Program of the Pipeline and
Hazardous Materials Safety Administration of the Department of
Transportation.
(b) Memorandum of Understanding.--Not later than one year after the
date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall enter into or
update an existing memorandum of understanding with the Secretary of
Transportation and the Director of the National Institute of Standards
and Technology to administer the Joint Program. Such memorandum shall
require each participating agency to--
(1) identify unique research capabilities to contribute while
avoiding duplication of existing efforts; and
(2) include cost sharing and cost reimbursement abilities
among participating agencies, including any training or
resource outlays that will be required.
(c) Infrastructure.--In carrying out the Joint Program, the
Secretary, the Secretary of Transportation, and the Director of the
National Institute of Standards and Technology shall--
(1) use existing research infrastructure at--
(A) Department of Energy facilities, including
National Laboratories;
(B) Department of Transportation initiatives,
including any such initiatives carried out through the
Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration;
and
(C) the National Institute of Standards and
Technology; and
(2) develop new infrastructure for potential projects, if
appropriate.
(d) Goals and Metrics.--The Secretary, the Secretary of
Transportation, and the Director of the National Institute of Standards
and Technology shall develop goals and metrics for each agency in
meeting technological progress under the Joint Program, consistent with
existing United States energy safety, resilience, and security
policies.
(e) Selection of Projects.--To the maximum extent practicable, the
Secretary, the Secretary of Transportation, and the Director of the
National Institute of Standards and Technology shall ensure the
following with respect to the Joint Program:
(1) Projects are carried out under conditions that represent
a variety of geographies, physical conditions, and market
constraints.
(2) Projects represent an appropriate balance of the
following:
(A) Larger, higher-cost projects.
(B) Smaller, lower-cost projects.
(3) To the maximum extent practicable, projects are
transferred between participating agencies based on the stage
of research and capabilities of each agency.
(f) Priority.--In carrying out the Joint Program, the Secretary, the
Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and the
Secretary of Transportation shall, through consultation with the
demonstration initiative established pursuant to section 40344 of the
Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Public Law 117-58), as added by
section 4, to identify and advance areas of research most needed for
demonstration projects under such demonstration initiative, give
priority to research and demonstration projects that--
(1) are likely to be of value to such demonstration
initiative; and
(2) are done in coordination with, or advance knowledge
critical to, the National Pipeline Modernization Center
established pursuant to section 6.
(g) Relation to Existing Law.--Nothing in this section may be
construed to change existing agency roles, responsibilities, or areas
of expertise as described in section 12 of the Pipeline Safety
Improvement Act of 2002 (Public Law 107-355; 49 U.S.C. 60101 note)
(h) Sunset.--This section shall terminate five years after the date
of the enactment of this section.
SEC. 6. NATIONAL PIPELINE MODERNIZATION CENTER.
(a) In General.--In carrying out the demonstration initiative
established pursuant to section 40344 of the Infrastructure Investment
and Jobs Act (Public Law 117-58), as added by section 4, and the Joint
Program and subject to the availability of appropriations, the
Secretary shall establish a National Pipeline Modernization Center
(referred to in this Act as the ``Center''), which shall focus on
collaborating with industry and stakeholders to coordinate and carry
out research, development, and demonstration projects focused on
commercializing cost-effective products and procedures aligned with the
goals and priorities set forth by the Department.
(b) Selection.--The Secretary shall administer the Center in
conjunction with an eligible entity pursuant to an agreement between
the Department and such entity. Such entity shall be selected on a
competitive, merit-reviewed basis.
(c) Existing Centers.--In administering the Center, the Secretary
shall prioritize higher education energy-related research centers in
existence as of the date of the enactment of this Act.
(d) Period of Performance.--An agreement under subsection (b) shall
be for a period of not more than five years, subject to the
availability of appropriations.
(e) Location.--The Center shall be located in proximity to critical
transportation infrastructure connecting to an existing national
pipeline transportation system and other Department monitoring assets,
as determined by the Secretary.
(f) Coordination With Training and Qualifications Center.--In
carrying out the functions described in subsection (a), the Center
shall coordinate and collaborate with training centers of the Pipeline
and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration of the Department of
Transportation to facilitate knowledge sharing among, and enhanced
training opportunities for, Federal and State pipeline safety
inspectors and investigators.
(g) Duplication.--The Secretary shall ensure the coordination of, and
avoid unnecessary duplication of, the activities under this section
with the National Center of Excellence for Liquefied Natural Gas Safety
established pursuant to section 111 of the Protecting our
Infrastructure of Pipelines and Enhancing Safety Act of 2020 (49 U.S.C.
60103 note; Public Law 116-260, div. R, title I).
SEC. 7. NIST PIPELINE METROLOGY.
(a) In General.--Subject to the availability of appropriations, the
Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology shall
carry out a program of measurement research, development,
demonstration, and standardization to--
(1) ensure the integrity of pipeline facilities; and
(2) support pipeline safety, security, efficiency,
sustainability, and resilience.
(b) Testing.--The Director of the National Institute of Standards and
Technology, in collaboration with the Secretary of the Department of
Transportation and in consultation with the private sector and
international standards organizations, shall support testing,
evaluation, and research infrastructure to support the activities
described in subsection (a).
(c) Allocation of Appropriations.--From amounts appropriated or
otherwise made available for the National Institute of Standards and
Technology, the Director of the National Institute of Standards and
Technology shall allocate up to $2,500,000 for each of fiscal years
2025 through 2029 to carry out this section.
SEC. 8. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
(a) In General.--Out of funds authorized to be appropriated for the
Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy and the Office of
Fossil Energy and Carbon Management pursuant to paragraphs (1) and (6),
respectively, of section 10771 of subtitle O of title VI of the
Research and Development, Competition, and Innovation Act (enacted as
division B of Public Law 117-167), there is authorized to be
appropriated to the Secretary to carry out--
(1) section 5, $20,000,000 for fiscal year 2025, and
$30,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2026 through 2029; and
(2) section 6, $10,000,000 for fiscal year 2025, and
$15,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2026 through 2029.
(b) Offset.--Section 10771 of subtitle O of title VI of the Research
and Development, Competition, and Innovation Act (enacted as division B
of Public Law 117-167) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
(A) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by
striking ``2026'' and inserting ``2029''; and
(B) in subparagraph (B), by striking
``1,200,000,000'' and inserting ``$1,100,000,000''; and
(2) in subsection (6)--
(A) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by
striking ``2026'' and inserting ``2029'';
(B) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``600,000,000''
and inserting ``$445,000,000'';
(C) in subparagraph (B)--
(i) by striking ``200,000,000'' and inserting
``$100,000,000''; and
(ii) by striking ``and'' after the semicolon;
(D) in subparagraph (C)--
(i) by striking ``1,000,000,000'' and
inserting ``$900,000,000''; and
(ii) by striking the period and inserting ``;
and''; and
(E) by adding at the end the following new
subparagraph:
``(D) $455,000,000 to carry out pipeline research,
development, demonstration, and commercial application
activities.''.
Purpose and Summary
H.R. 7073 improves public-private partnerships and
increases Federal research, development, and demonstration
related activities for next generation pipeline systems and
upgrades to current infrastructure. The Next Generation
Pipelines Research and Development Act seeks to invigorate the
focus on improving pipeline safety and technology through
innovation. A new and modern emphasis on federal research and
development collaboration, as well as increased industry
involvement and public-private demonstration projects, will be
required to meet future energy demands and ensure the continued
safe and efficient use of pipelines.
This bill establishes a demonstration initiative in which
the Secretary of Energy shall stand up projects in the low- to
mid-technology readiness level that best advance research
undertaken by Department of Energy (DOE) and the Pipeline and
Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). This will
help lab-scale, basic research overcome the ``valley of death''
and achieve commercial deployment.
H.R. 7073 also requires DOE, Department of Transportation,
and the National Institute of Standards and Technology to enter
into a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to conduct a joint
research program. A similar MOU was established in 2004 but has
not been updated or codified since.
Additionally, this bill directs DOE to establish a National
Pipeline Modernization Center. This Center will be centrally
located for industry and stakeholders to collaborate with
federal agencies on pipeline research and development and
enable them to commercialize new cost-effective products and
procedures.
Background and Need for Legislation
The United States' pipeline network consists of nearly 2.8
million miles of pipeline--enough to wrap around the world at
the equator more than 112 times. Yet, 50% of the nation's
pipeline system is more than sixty years old. With these aging
pipelines operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, it is
inevitable that without new inspection and leak detection
technologies, defects and anomalies will occur more frequently.
Additionally, new fuel sources such as hydrogen and carbon
dioxide will require pipeline transportation to be economically
feasible. The Department of Energy estimates that as many as
96,000 miles of new pipelines will be needed to handle carbon
dioxide captured from power plants and directly from the air.
Currently, both the Department of Energy and the Department
of Transportation's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety
Administration conduct research on different elements of
pipeline safety and innovation. DOE has traditionally focused
on materials, transmission and distribution technologies, real-
time sensing and repair, and natural gas conversion processes.
PHMSA has expertise in pipe manufacturing and installation
quality control, including permitting process, employee
training, and inline inspection.
The last detailed policy direction given for federal
pipeline research was enacted as part of the Pipeline Safety
Improvement Act of 2002.
Legislative History
H.R. 7073 was introduced on January 22, 2024, by
Representative Randy Weber (R-TX) and is cosponsored by Science
Committee Chairman Frank Lucas (R-OK) and Representatives
Caraveo (D-CO), Obernolte (R-CA), and Williams (R-NY).
Section-by-Section
Section 1. Short title
The short title of this legislation is ``Next Generation
Pipelines Research and Development Act''
Section 2. Definitions
This section provides definitions related to Department,
eligible entity, Secretary, and technical standards.
Section 3. Coordination
This section ensures that the activities authorized in this
act avoid unnecessary duplication and achieve shared mission
goals by coordinating with the Administrator of PHMSA and
across all relevant program offices at the Department of
Energy, Department of Transportation (DOT), National Institute
of Standards and Technology (NIST), and the Department of
Interior.
Section 4. Advanced pipeline materials and technologies demonstration
initiative
This section establishes a demonstration initiative to
award financial assistance, through a competitive merit review
process, for projects on a low- to mid-technology readiness
level that are applicable to pipelines and associated
infrastructure. These projects are to include liquefied natural
gas facilities, underground and above ground gas and liquid
fuel storage facilities, as well as involve the development of
next generation pipeline systems, components, and related
technologies.
This section ensures that selected demonstration projects
best advance research undertaken by DOE and DOT and incorporate
a range of technology focus areas. This section also directs
regional and technological diversity among projects, including
projects related to a diver mix of energy, substances, fuel
sources, and byproducts.
Section 5. Joint research and development program
This section requires the Secretary of Energy, in
consultation with the Secretary of Transportation and the
Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology,
and in coordination with the demonstration initiative
established by section 4, to establish a joint research and
development program related to cost-effective advanced
materials and technologies for pipeline transportation systems.
This section directs DOE, DOT, and NIST to enter into or
update an existing memorandum of understanding within one year
of enactment. As part of the MOU, each agency is required to
identify unique research capabilities to contribute while
avoiding duplication of existing efforts and include cost
sharing and cost reimbursement abilities among participating
agencies.
This section also requires that priority be placed on
identifying and advancing areas of research most needed for
demonstration projects.
Section 6. National Pipeline Modernization Center
This section directs the establishment of a National
Pipeline Modernization Center, which will focus on
collaborating with industry and stakeholders to coordinate and
carry out research, development, and demonstration projects
related to commercializing cost- effective products and
procedures aligned with the goals and priorities set forth by
the joint R&D program and demonstration initiative.
This section also ensures that the Center is located in
proximity to critical transportation infrastructure connecting
to an existing national pipeline transportation system and
other Department monitoring assets, as well as coordinated with
training centers of PHMSA.
Section 7. NIST pipeline metrology
This section directs the National Institute of Standards
and Technology to carry out measurement research, development,
demonstration, and standardization to ensure the integrity of
pipeline facilities and support pipeline safety, security,
efficiency, sustainability, and resilience. NIST is authorized
to consult with the private sector and international standards
organization to support testing, evaluation, and research
infrastructure.
Section 8. Authorization of appropriations
This section authorizes the appropriation of $20,000,000
for FY 25, and $30,000,000, for each FY 26-29 for the joint
research and development program. This section also authorizes
the appropriation of $10,000,000 for FY 25, and $15,000,000 for
each FY 26-29 for the National Pipeline Modernization Center.
This section offsets the total authorization of
appropriations in this bill by reducing authorization of
appropriations in the CHIPS and Science Act.
Related Committee Hearings
Pursuant to clause 3(c)(6) of rule XIII, the following
hearing was used to develop or consider H.R. 7073.
On July 26, 2023, the Subcommittee on Energy held a hearing
entitled Unearthing Innovation: The Future of Subsurface
Science and Technology in the United States. Members and
witnesses discussed the status of U.S. subsurface science and
technology research including in the areas of fundamental
scientific discovery, clean energy production and storage,
waste management strategies, and next generation mining
technologies.
Witnesses:
Dr. Alexandra Hakala, Senior Fellow,
Geologic and Environmental Systems, National Energy
Technology Laboratory, U.S. Department of Energy.
Mr. Ben Serrurier, Government Affairs and
Policy Manager, Fervo Energy.
Dr. Kevin M. Rosso, Associate Director,
Physical Sciences Division, Pacific Northwest National
Laboratory.
Dr. Haruko Murakami Wainwright, Norman C.
Rasmussen Career Development Professor, Assistant
Professor of Nuclear Science and Engineering, and
Assistant Professor of Civil and Environmental
Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Ms. Allyson Book, Chief Sustainability
Officer, Baker Hughes.
On September 14, 2023, the Full Committee held a hearing
entitled An Update on the Department of Energy's Science and
Technology Priorities. Members and the witness discussed DOE's
goals and priorities for its civilian research, development,
demonstration, and commercial application programs.
Witness:
The Honorable Jennifer Granholm, Secretary
of Energy, U.S. Department of Energy
Committee Consideration
On March 20, 2024, the Committee on Science, Space, and
Technology met in open session to consider H.R. 7073.
Rep. Lee offered an amendment to prioritize projects that
can reduce environmental impacts of pipelines and associated
infrastructure. The amendment was adopted by voice vote.
Rep. Weber offered a Manager's Amendment, which made minor
technical and conforming changes to the text of the bill. The
amendment was adopted by voice vote.
Chairman Lucas moved that the Committee favorably report
the bill, H.R. 7073, as amended, to the House of
Representatives with the recommendation that the bill be
reported favorably. The motion was agreed to by a recorded vote
of 36 yeas to 0 nays, a quorum being present.
Roll Call Votes
Clause 3(b) of rule XIII requires the Committee to list the
record votes on the motion to report legislation and amendments
thereto. The following reflects the record votes taken during
the Committee consideration:
[GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
Application of Law to the Legislative Branch
The Committee finds that H.R. 7073 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).
Statement of Oversight Findings and Recommendations of the Committee
In compliance with clause 3(c)(1) of rule XIII and clause
(2)(b)(1) of rule X, the Committee's oversight findings and
recommendations are reflected in the descriptive portions of
this report.
Statement of General Performance Goals and Objectives
Pursuant to clause (3)(c)(4) of rule XIII, the goal of H.R.
7073 is to improve public-private partnerships and increase
Federal research, development, and demonstration related
activities for next generation pipeline systems and upgrades to
current infrastructure. The Next Generation Pipelines Research
and Development Act seeks to invigorate the focus on improving
pipeline safety and technology through innovation.
Duplication of Federal Programs
Pursuant to clause 3(c)(5) of rule XIII, the Committee
finds that no provision of H.R. 7073 establishes or
reauthorizes a program of the Federal Government known to be
duplicative of another Federal program, including any program
that was included in a report to Congress pursuant to section
21 of Public Law 111-139 or identified in the most recent
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance.
Federal Advisory Committee Act
The Committee finds that the legislation does not establish
or authorize the establishment of an advisory committee within
the definition of section 5(b) of the Federal Advisory
Committee Act.
Unfunded Mandate Statement
The Committee adopts as its own the estimate of Federal
mandates prepared by the Director of the Congressional Budget
Office pursuant to section 423 of the Unfunded Mandates Reform
Act.
Earmark Identification
Pursuant to clauses 9(e), 9(f), and 9(g) of rule XXI, the
Committee finds that H.R. 7073 does not include any
congressional earmarks, limited tax benefits, or limited tariff
benefits.
Committee Cost Estimate
Pursuant to clause 3(d)(1) of rule XIII, the Committee
adopts as its own the cost estimate prepared by the Director of
the Congressional Budget Office pursuant to section 402 of the
Congressional Budget Act of 1974. At the time this report was
filed, the estimate was not yet available.
New Budget Authority, Entitlement Authority, and Tax Expenditures
Pursuant to clause 3(c)(2) of rule XIII, the Committee
finds that H.R. 7073 would result in no new or increased budget
authority, entitlement authority, or tax expenditures or
revenues.
Congressional Budget Office Cost Estimate
Pursuant to clause 3(c)(3) of rule XIII, at the time this
report was filed, the cost estimate prepared by the Director of
the Congressional Budget Office pursuant to section 402 of the
Congressional Budget Act of 1974 was not available.
Changes in Existing Law Made by the Bill, as Reported
In compliance with clause 3(e) of rule XIII of the Rules of
the House of Representatives, changes in existing law made by
the bill, as reported, are shown as follows (existing law
proposed to be omitted is enclosed in black brackets, new
matter is printed in italics, and existing law in which no
change is proposed is shown in roman):
INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT AND JOBS ACT
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the
``Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act''.
(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is
as follows:
Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
* * * * * * *
DIVISION D--ENERGY
* * * * * * *
TITLE III--FUELS AND TECHNOLOGY INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENTS
* * * * * * *
Subtitle E--Miscellaneous
* * * * * * *
Sec. 40344. Advanced pipeline materials and technologies demonstration
initiative.
* * * * * * *
DIVISION D--ENERGY
* * * * * * *
TITLE III--FUELS AND TECHNOLOGY INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENTS
* * * * * * *
Subtitle E--Miscellaneous
* * * * * * *
SEC. 40344. ADVANCED PIPELINE MATERIALS AND TECHNOLOGIES DEMONSTRATION
INITIATIVE.
(a) Establishment of Initiative.--The Secretary shall
establish a demonstration initiative (in this section referred
to as the ``Initiative'') under which the Secretary, through a
competitive merit review process, shall award financial
assistance to eligible entities to carry out demonstration
projects on low- to mid-technology readiness level subjects to
achieve deployment of technologies that--
(1) are applicable to pipelines and associated
infrastructure, including liquefied natural gas
facilities and underground and above ground gas and
liquid fuel storage facilities; and
(2) involve the development of next generation
pipeline systems, components, and related technologies.
(b) Demonstration Project Focus Areas.--In carrying out the
Initiative, the Secretary shall select demonstration projects
that best advance research undertaken by the Department and the
Department of Transportation and incorporate a range of
technology focus areas, which may include the following:
(1) Advanced leak detection and mitigation tools and
technologies.
(2) Novel materials, including alloy and nonmetallic
materials, to improve integrity for new and existing
pipelines, such as pipeline coatings, sleeves, and
liners, and corrosion resistant materials, including
maximum and minimum flow rates and immunity to
electrical discharge processes.
(3) Technologies and methods for retrofitting
existing pipelines, resolving material compatibility
issues, and minimizing leakage, such as field
protective coatings and material treatment.
(4) Advanced manufacturing approaches for producing,
fitting, and coupling pipelines, including the
fabrication of higher performance pipeline materials
and new extrusion technologies or methods to join
ultra-high strength and corrosion resistant materials
at a scale for distribution.
(5) Advanced sensor technologies and processes that
enable real-time or in situ monitoring of pipeline
assets to assess and mitigate leaks, both internal and
external to the pipeline, which may include the
following:
(A) Wireless sensors, such as surface
acoustic wave sensors.
(B) Advanced and cost-effective
electrochemical sensors.
(C) Distributed fiber optic sensors.
(D) Autonomous sensor systems, including
uncrewed aircraft.
(E) Optical methods.
(F) Multi-use platforms for diverse sources.
(G) Hybrid data-analysis platforms.
(6) Advanced computational, data analytics, and
machine learning models to achieve the following:
(A) Multiscale modeling, characterization,
and optimization of transmission and
distribution systems and components to aid in
planning for optimized and resilient
infrastructure.
(B) Correlation between sensor and emissions
data at all operational points and across a
variety of scales to assure system integrity
spanning large areas.
(C) Accurate material lifecycle predictions
and simulation platforms to forecast pipeline
health.
(D) Secure real time autonomous monitoring
and repair capabilities.
(E) Mapping and monitoring of structural
health parameters, such as corrosion.
(7) Self-healing and self-repair functionalities,
including by chemical treatment methods.
(8) Autonomous robotic and patch technologies for
inspection and repair.
(9) Dynamic compressor technologies, including
retrofit kits for existing compressor systems.
(10) Strategies and technologies for integrated
cybersecurity considerations and countering
cyberattacks.
(11) Technologies and methods to reduce potential
environmental impacts, including at the atmospheric and
subsurface level, associated with pipelines, liquefied
natural gas facilities, and gas and liquid fuel storage
facilities, such as equipment failure.
(12) Tools to evaluate geographical pipeline data for
the feasibility of repurposing existing infrastructure
for safe and effective transport and use of alternative
fuels, blends, and carbon dioxide.
(13) Tools and technologies applicable to improving
the safety, operation, and efficiency of liquefied
natural gas facilities and gas and liquid fuel storage
facilities.
(c) Selection Requirements.--In selecting eligible entities
for demonstration projects under the Initiative, the Secretary
shall, to the maximum extent practicable, take the following
actions:
(1) Encourage regional diversity among eligible
entities, including participation by such entities
located in rural States.
(2) Prioritize technological diversity among eligible
entities.
(3) Prioritize a diverse mix of energy, substances,
fuel sources, and byproducts, including the following:
(A) Gas and liquid hydrocarbons, including
natural gas, renewable natural gas, methane,
ethane, and liquefied natural gas.
(B) Carbon dioxide.
(C) Hydrogen.
(D) Biofuels.
(E) Water.
(F) Substances in the hydrogen supply chain,
including ammonia and liquid organic hydrogen
carriers.
(G) Blends of gases or liquids, including
hydrogen blends.
(H) Any other source the Secretary determines
appropriate.
(4) Prioritize projects that leverage and are
complementary to existing energy infrastructure.
(5) Prioritize projects that leverage matching funds
from non-Federal sources.
(6) Ensure that selected projects are coordinated
with or expand on the existing technology demonstration
programs of the Department.
(7) Evaluate projects and topics for technical
performance and economic feasibility as part of
lifecycle assessments for return on investment impact.
(8) Prioritize projects that can quantifiably reduce
the environmental impacts of pipelines and associated
infrastructure on air, water, or soil quality in all
regions of the United States, especially in underserved
and rural communities.
(d) Location.--To the maximum extent practicable,
demonstration projects under the Initiative shall be located on
sites with existing research infrastructure or with the ability
to coordinate with existing Department user facilities and
research centers.
(e) Authorization of Appropriations.--Out of funds authorized
to be appropriated for--
(1) the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable
Energy, and
(2) the Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon
Management,
pursuant to paragraphs (1) and (6), respectively, of section
10771 of subtitle O of title VI of the Research and
Development, Competition, and Innovation Act (enacted as
division B of Public Law 117-167), there is authorized to be
appropriated to the Secretary of Energy to carry out this
section $45,000,000 for fiscal year 2025, and $50,000,000 for
each of fiscal years 2026 through 2029.
(f) Sunset.--This section shall terminate five years after
the date of the enactment of this section.
* * * * * * *
----------
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT, COMPETITION, AND INNOVATION ACT
* * * * * * *
DIVISION B--RESEARCH AND INNOVATION
* * * * * * *
TITLE VI--MISCELLANEOUS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PROVISIONS
* * * * * * *
Subtitle O--Department of Energy Research, Development, and
Demonstration Activities
SEC. 10771. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, AND
DEMONSTRATION ACTIVITIES.
For the purpose of carrying out research, development, and
demonstration activities and addressing energy-related supply
chain activities in the key technology focus areas (as
described in section 10387), there are authorized to be
appropriated the following amounts:
(1) Office of energy efficiency and renewable
energy.--In addition to amounts otherwise authorized to
be appropriated or made available, there are authorized
to be appropriated to the Secretary of Energy (referred
to in this section as the ``Secretary''), acting
through the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable
Energy, for the period of fiscal years 2023 through
[2026] 2029--
(A) $1,200,000,000 to carry out building
technologies research, development, and
demonstration activities;
(B) $[1,200,000,000] $1,100,000,000 to carry
out sustainable transportation research,
development, and demonstration activities;
(C) $1,000,000,000 to carry out advanced
manufacturing research, development, and
demonstration activities, excluding activities
carried out pursuant to subparagraph (D);
(D) $1,000,000,000 to carry out section 454
of the Energy Independence and Security Act of
2007 (42 U.S.C. 17113);
(E) $600,000,000 to carry out advanced
materials research, development, and
demonstration activities, including relating to
upcycling, recycling, and biobased materials;
and
(F) $800,000,000 to carry out renewable power
research, development, and demonstration
activities.
(2) Office of electricity.--In addition to amounts
otherwise authorized to be appropriated or made
available, there is authorized to be appropriated to
the Secretary, acting through the Office of
Electricity, for the period of fiscal years 2023
through 2026, $1,000,000,000 to carry out electric grid
modernization and security research, development, and
demonstration activities.
(3) Office of cybersecurity, energy security, and
emergency response.--In addition to amounts otherwise
authorized to be appropriated or made available, there
is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary,
acting through the Office of Cybersecurity, Energy
Security, and Emergency Response, for the period of
fiscal years 2023 through 2026, $800,000,000 to carry
out cybersecurity and energy system physical security
research, development, and demonstration activities.
(4) Office of nuclear energy.--In addition to amounts
otherwise authorized to be appropriated or made
available, there is authorized to be appropriated to
the Secretary, acting through the Office of Nuclear
Energy, for the period of fiscal years 2023 through
2026, $400,000,000 to carry out advanced materials
research, development, and demonstration activities.
(5) Office of environmental management.--In addition
to amounts otherwise authorized to be appropriated or
made available, there is authorized to be appropriated
to the Secretary, acting through the Office of
Environmental Management, for the period of fiscal
years 2023 through 2026, $200,000,000 to carry out
research, development, and demonstration activities,
including relating to artificial intelligence and
information technology.
(6) Office of fossil energy and carbon management.--
In addition to amounts otherwise authorized to be
appropriated or made available, there are authorized to
be appropriated to the Secretary, acting through the
Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management, for the
period of fiscal years 2023 through [2026] 2029--
(A) $[600,000,000] $445,000,000 to carry out
clean industrial technologies research,
development, and demonstration activities
pursuant to section 454 of the Energy
Independence and Security Act of 2007 (42
U.S.C. 17113);
(B) $[200,000,000] $100,000,000 to carry out
alternative fuels research, development, and
demonstration activities; [and]
(C) $[1,000,000,000] $900,000,000 to carry
out carbon removal research, development, and
demonstration activities[.]; and
(D) $455,000,000 to carry out pipeline
research, development, demonstration, and
commercial application activities.
(7) Advanced research projects agency--energy.--In
addition to amounts otherwise authorized to be
appropriated or made available, there is authorized to
be appropriated to the Secretary, acting through the
Director of the Advanced Research Projects Agency--
Energy established under section 5012 of the America
COMPETES Act (42 U.S.C. 16538), for the period of
fiscal years 2023 through 2026, $1,200,852,898 to carry
out activities of the Advanced Research Projects
Agency--Energy.
* * * * * * *
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