On May 7, 2019, Energy Secretary Rick Perry announced a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) funding opportunity of up to $89 million in support of innovative, advanced manufacturing research and development (R&D) projects. The opportunity aims to tackle key DOE priorities, which include domestic manufacturing for energy storage. Perry stated that “[e]mbracing new technologies that drive innovation in American manufacturing is the key to creating real-world progress that significantly improves energy efficiency in manufacturing. . . . By focusing on energy-related advanced manufacturing technologies, we are building a new era of manufacturing that will stimulate the economy, create jobs and build American energy independence.” DOE’s funding opportunity announcement (FOA) is requesting proposals in three key areas that will drive innovation catalysis around manufacturing and reduce industrial process energy intensity:

• Topic 1: Innovations for the Manufacture of Advanced Materials

• Topic 2: Lower Thermal Budget Processes for Industrial Efficiency & Productivity 

• Topic 3: Connected, Flexible and Efficient Manufacturing Facilities and Energy Systems 

The initiative will be led by DOE’s Advanced Manufacturing Office (AMO), which anticipates making up to 55 awards for up to three years. The funding application and submission requirements can be accessed here. Concept papers are due on June 20, 2019.