Federal Register #DOEHQ20250175

DOE Final Rule on Voluntary Agreements Under the Defense Production Act

This notice announces a final rule from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), Office of Nuclear Energy, regarding voluntary agreements under the Defense Production Act (DPA): - Government Buyer: - U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) - Office of Nuclear Energy - No Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) or vendors are named or referenced - No products, part numbers, or purchase quantities are requested - The rule establishes procedures for developing and carrying out voluntary agreements and plans of action under the DPA - Provides antitrust law defenses for certain actions taken under these agreements - Focuses on supporting national defense and preparedness programs, especially in the energy sector - Includes requirements for compliance monitoring, public access to records and meetings, and coordination with other federal agencies - Emphasizes maximizing participation of small businesses - No procurement of goods or services is solicited; this is a procedural rulemaking, not a solicitation or award

Description

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is adopting the interim final rule published on August 25, 2025, as final, without change. This final rule establishes the procedures for developing and carrying out voluntary agreements and plans of action under the Defense Production Act. The Act provides antitrust law defenses for actions taken to develop or carry out voluntary agreements or plans of action when certain criteria are met. The rule supports national defense and preparedness programs, particularly in the energy sector, and includes provisions for monitoring compliance, public access to records, and coordination with other federal agencies.

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