§5556a Solar Photovoltaic Energy Systems Studies and Acquisitions by Secretary of Energy; Scope, Contents, and Submission Dates for Reports; Acquisition Authority and Requirements; Authorization of Appropriations

Summary

Require the Secretary of Energy to start several studies about using solar photovoltaic systems on federal property. The main study must find which federal sites are cost-effective now or would be at expected future prices, using life-cycle cost methods, and it must look at sites in agencies including Defense, Transportation, Commerce, Agriculture, and Interior. A preliminary report to Congress is due within nine months after February 25, 1978, and a detailed implementation plan is due within twelve months. The Secretary must also study federal actions to help grow the solar industry and report preliminarily within six months after February 25, 1978. A separate study on using and exporting solar systems in other countries (especially less developed ones) must be done with State and Commerce; a preliminary report is due within twelve months after February 25, 1978, and a final report must also be sent to Congress. Allow the Secretary to buy up to an additional 4.0 megawatts (peak) of solar photovoltaic systems. Up to $13,000,000 is authorized for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1978, for those purchases and delivery in the next twelve months; the money stays available until spent. Purchases can only happen if the systems are life-cycle cost effective. Also authorize $6,000,000 for technology and manufacturing development for that same fiscal year.