Energy and Water Research Integration Act of 2019
This bill requires the Department of Energy (DOE) to integrate water considerations into its energy research, development, and demonstration programs and projects.
Specifically, the DOE must develop and implement a strategic plan that (1) advances energy and energy efficiency technologies and practices to minimize freshwater withdrawal and consumption, increase water use efficiency, and utilize nontraditional water sources; (2) considers the effects climate variability may have on water supplies and quality for energy generation and fuel production; and (3) improves the understanding of the energy required to provide reliable water supplies as well as the water required to provide reliable energy supplies. The plan must be updated every five years.
In addition, DOE must establish an Energy-Water Subcommittee of the Energy Advisory Board to promote and enable improved energy and water resource data collection, reporting, and technological innovation.