The Department of Energy released its second Quadrennial Technology Review (QTR) on Thursday. The report evaluates the status of clean-energy technology and provides information on research opportunities in the field.
The QTR indicates researchers found that options for meeting the nation’s energy needs are expanding as new technology is developed and enhanced. They said diversification will benefit the energy-grid system on a national scale. They also note greater interconnectivity between energy systems through the Internet and other network technologies.
Enhanced X-rays and supercomputers are also aiding scientists in researching and discovering novel ways to deliver clean energy.
“No challenge poses a greater threat to our future than climate change, which is primarily caused by carbon pollution from energy use,” John Holdren, director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, said. “The QTR makes clear that we have the technological know-how and innovative spirit to move to a low-carbon economy. It’s up to us to carry these opportunities through and make them a reality.”
The report said emerging technologies likely will address the country’s energy needs, but there is also room for improvement in considering costs and performance of new technology.
“The energy sector in the United States has changed dramatically in recent years due to advances in clean-energy technologies, increased oil and gas production, and the increased risk to energy infrastructure from extreme weather, cybersecurity and other factors,” Secretary of Energy Ernest Moniz said.
