Legal Definitions - ENERGY DEPARTMENT OF

The Energy Department of, also known as the Department of Energy (DOE), is a part of the federal government that advises the President on energy policies, plans, and programs. Its main goal is to promote efficient energy use, diversity in energy sources, and improved environmental quality.

The DOE is headed by the Secretary of Energy and oversees a comprehensive national energy plan. This includes:

• Research, development, and demonstration of energy technology
• Energy conservation
• The nuclear-weapons program
• Pricing and allocation

For example, the DOE might fund research into new types of renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power. It might also work to promote energy conservation by encouraging people to use energy-efficient appliances or to turn off lights when they leave a room. Additionally, the DOE is responsible for overseeing the country's nuclear-weapons program and ensuring that nuclear materials are stored and used safely.