“An Overview of the Department of Energy’s Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Request"

This was a House Science, Space, and Technology Committee hearing held on June 11, 2026, focused on the Department of Energy's (DOE) Fiscal Year 2027 budget request. Secretary Chris Wright testified on the administration's energy priorities, including advancing nuclear energy, critical minerals development, and grid reliability. Significant procurement-related discussions included DOE's cancellation of over 300 clean energy projects in certain states, the legality and oversight of DOE's reallocation of R&D funds, and the awarding of $1 billion in contracts for nine new supercomputers without open competition. The Secretary highlighted investments in fusion energy, quantum computing, and the American nuclear renaissance, including pilot programs for new reactors. Committee members raised concerns about DOE's management of large-scale projects, budget cuts to basic science and workforce programs, and the impact of DOE policies on energy prices and infrastructure. The hearing also covered DOE's efforts to secure domestic supply chains for critical minerals and the importance of permitting reform to accelerate energy infrastructure projects. Several members questioned the administration's approach to renewable energy subsidies and the balance between fossil fuels and clean energy. The Secretary committed to working with Congress on financing tools and permitting reforms to support energy infrastructure development. Overall, the hearing involved extensive discussion of DOE's budget allocations, contract awards, project cancellations, and policy directions affecting future procurement and energy innovation.