Washington (Platts)--30Apr2008

The US Department of Energy sought proposals Wednesday for $60 million in
DOE funding for research that would help reduce the cost of concentrating
solar power technology.

The funding would be available over five years to companies and academic
institutions. They would, however, have to provide at least 20% of the costs
of research and development projects and up to 50% of demonstration project
expenses.

DOE estimated that the projects it ultimately selects will involve more
than $75 million in federal and non-government funding.

DOE said it will accept proposals until July 10 and expects to select 10
to 25 projects for funding.

The department said it plans to use $10 million in fiscal 2008 funding
provided by Congress, and requested $10 million for the work in its fiscal
2009 budget request. DOE's funding for the projects beyond fiscal 2008 would
be subject to congressional decisions on appropriations.

Concentrating solar power systems use heat generated by concentrating and
absorbing solar energy to produce thermal energy.

Under Secretary of Energy Clarence "Bud" Albright announced the
solicitation at a National Energy Marketers Association Meeting in Washington.