18 Nov BPC Action Applauds the Technology Transitions Act of 2019 in Energy and Environment

BPC Action applauds Sens. Cassidy (R-LA) and Whitehouse (D-RI) for introducing S. 2688, the Technology Transitions Act of 2019. The bill would establish a Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Technology Transitions in order to advance U.S. economic, energy, environmental and national security interests by better commercializing the DOE research and development portfolio.

To better support the U.S. innovation ecosystem, ensure the continued strength of the domestic energy sector, and bolster U.S. international economic competitiveness, it is necessary to provide clear pathways for the commercialization of innovative technologies. Over the decades, the United States has invested heavily in the early stages of the innovation lifecycle, particularly basic research and development. Improved international competitiveness will require the federal government to direct more resources towards the later stages of the innovation lifecycle, including demonstration, deployment, and commercialization. The Technology Transitions Act of 2019 provides a strong foundation for this effort by establishing an Office of Technology Transitions, led by a Chief Commercialization Officer, to spur technology transfer and commercialization. This will also enable the private sector to better access and then capitalize on the extensive research and development conducted by the Department of Energy.

BPC Action looks forward to working with Congress to pass this important bill to strengthen the technology transfer and commercialization pathways in the U.S.