DOE Announces Framework for Assessing Research, Technology, and Economic Security (RTES) Risk

A new memo published by the Department of Energy (DOE) outlines DOE’s approach to Research Technology and Economic Security (RTES) risk for financial assistance and loan activities. The memo includes an overview of DOE’s goals, process, high-level risk factors, and commitment to mitigation.  

This framework codifies a harmonized approach across all DOE/NNSA funding offices, while also ensuring right-sized requirements for early-stage Research and Development (R&D) in the academic setting, applied R&D stage projects, and Demonstration and Deployment (D&D) stage projects.  

To assist the applicant and recipient community in understanding and adapting to the recently published framework, DOE will provide webinars to introduce the approach and answer questions. In the coming months, DOE intends to publish additional resources that build on this framework. Once those subsequent resources are released, DOE will schedule listening sessions to gather feedback from the community. The Department recognizes that risk factors will change over time, as DOE adapts to changes in the geopolitical landscape, evolving congressional requirements, and community input.  

The Department encourages the applicant and recipient community to engage with DOE’s RTES Office on the recently published framework, to better inform forthcoming guidance and resources. Registration links for upcoming webinars are available on the RTES Website: Research, Technology & Economic Security | Department of Energy