Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recently reported strong employment growth across the nation's energy sectors, highlighting the positive impact on American industry and economic development. The DOE manages a budget exceeding $40 billion annually, supporting research and innovation at 17 national laboratories focused on transforming industries and creating new markets.

Among key initiatives, the DOE's Office of Energy Dominance Financing completed a $3.26 billion loan to American Electric Power Texas to modernize and strengthen the Texas electricity grid and reduce costs for consumers.

The DOE continues to promote increased domestic oil and natural gas production to help lower energy costs for American families and businesses.

In the nuclear energy sector, the DOE is advancing deployment of small modular reactors with a $900 million solicitation, aiming to expand affordable and abundant energy supply.

The Advanced Materials & Manufacturing Technologies Office has also solicited input on research priorities involving materials for harsh environments, supporting the development of durable materials for energy technologies.