Department of Energy to announce funding opportunities for critical minerals and batteries.
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) plans to invest nearly $1 billion to advance technologies for the mining, processing, manufacturing, and recycling of critical minerals and materials. For too long, the United States has relied on foreign actors for the supply and processing of these resources, which are essential for modern life and national security, said U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright.
The funding call for battery material processing, battery manufacturing, and battery recycling will account for the largest share, about $500 million. Another $250 million will be allocated to the recovery of critical minerals and materials from byproducts in domestic industrial facilities. Strengthening the supply chains for rare earth elements will also be part of the program, with up to $135 million set aside for that purpose.
To expand the domestic critical materials industry, U.S. President Donald Trump has already issued several executive orders, including Unleashing American Energy and Immediate Measures to Increase American Mineral Production. In both cases, the DOE plays a central role in implementation.
Photo: EvgenyMiroshnichenko via Canva
