Rep. Lofgren Introduces Legislation to Strengthen U.S. Fusion Energy Research and Development

July 15, 2009

Washington, D.C. –Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) recently introduced H.R. 3177, the Fusion Engineering Science and Fusion Energy Planning Act of 2009, to enhance research and development in fusion and move closer to the possibility that practical fusion may meet global energy needs. This bill will strengthen existing fusion engineering sciences research by giving Department of Energy (DOE) scientists the ability to go beyond basic research in fusion and apply their efforts to fusion capable materials and fusion energy enabling technologies (such as, fueling, heat removal, safety systems, etc.). It also requests that the Secretary of Energy provide Congress with a detailed plan to address the full range of research and development and facility needs required to achieve practical fusion energy.

“Scientists at the Department of Energy have done amazing and highly productive work on the basic science of fusion,” noted Rep. Zoe Lofgren. “The time is approaching to move beyond the basic science research and into the possibility of implementation. The development of a reliable fusion reactor would open an almost inexhaustible supply of clean power and forever alter our way of life.”

Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren is serving her eighth term in Congress representing most of the City of San Jose and Santa Clara County. She is the Chair of the House Committee on Standards of Official Conduct. She also serves as Chair of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship, Refugees, Border Security, and International Law. She chairs the House Administration Subcommittee on Elections and serves on the House Homeland Security Committee. Congresswoman Lofgren is Chair of the California Democratic Congressional Delegation consisting of 33 Democratic members of the U.S. House of Representatives from California.