WASHINGTON, DC – Secretary of Energy Samuel W. Bodman today released the Department’s five-year strategic plan that focuses on the Department’s role in powering and securing America’s future.  The plan addresses overall Department goals for developing and deploying new clean energy technologies, reducing our dependence on foreign energy sources, protecting our nuclear weapons stockpile, and ensuring that America remains competitive in the global marketplace.   The Department’s plan builds on President Bush’s Advanced Energy and American Competitiveness Initiatives, which are increasing America’s energy security, spurring scientific innovation, and sustaining our economic vitality. 

“The Department of Energy’s strategic plan outlines a path forward to enhance our clean energy options and advance national security interests while protecting the health and safety of our workers and the public,” Secretary Bodman said.  “Building on the Department’s rich and diverse history and the President’s initiatives, this plan details the steps necessary to keep our commitments, embrace innovation, and work together to ensure safe, secure, and environmentally responsible operations.”

The Department’s strategic plan seeks to deliver results along five strategic themes that include promoting America’s energy security through reliable, clean, and affordable sources; ensuring America’s nuclear security by transforming the nuclear weapons stockpile through development of Reliable Replacement Warheads that are safer and more secure; strengthening U.S. scientific discovery, economic competitiveness, and improving quality of life through scientific innovations; protecting the environment through responsible resolution of weapons era waste; and strengthening the operations and management of the Department.

The plan addresses the energy, environmental, and nuclear security challenges facing the nation.  The thrust of the plan is founded on innovation through science-driven development of new technologies.  It outlines commitments to energy diversity and efficiency through a host of clean fuels and new technologies, including bold new initiatives in nuclear, coal, biomass, and solar energy as outlined in the President’s Advanced Energy Initiative.  It also renews and extends the Department’s commitment to the environment, both resolving legacy nuclear waste and supporting a future of cleaner energy.  To meet the pledge to the national security interests of the United States, the Department’s plan details a path that will ensure a reliable and responsive nuclear weapons stockpile and advance the goal of global nuclear non-proliferation. 

The Department of Energy updates its strategic plan in accordance with the Government Performance and Results Act of 1993 (GPRA).  To access the Department’s 2006 Strategic Plan, go to http://www.energy.gov/about/strategicplan.htm.

Media contact(s):
Craig Stevens, (202) 586-4940