Overview
- The new name takes effect immediately and is now used in official correspondence and on the lab’s website.
- Assistant Secretary Audrey Robertson said the government is "no longer picking and choosing energy sources," prioritizing manufacturing, lower costs, and meeting energy demand.
- Laboratory director Jud Virden endorsed the rebrand as embracing "a broader applied energy mission."
- Wind and solar remain listed as research areas, and a spokesperson said no program changes are planned, noting that funding is determined by congressional appropriations.
- The change follows May layoffs of about 114 employees and DOE reorganizations of renewable‑focused offices, drawing warnings from former officials and advocates about U.S. clean‑energy competitiveness.