The Department of Energy and the Department of Labor announced on July 21 a five-year partnership aimed at advancing mining innovation, improving worker safety, increasing productivity, and supporting secure domestic production of critical minerals. The agreement brings together DOE’s expertise in energy technologies with DOL’s experience in mine safety to strengthen federal coordination in the sector.
U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright said, “America’s security and economic future depend on developing a strong domestic mining sector. By pairing the Energy Department’s technical expertise with the Labor Department’s leadership on mine safety, we can support American miners, secure domestic supply chains, and put cutting-edge technology to work for the people who power our nation.”
Acting Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling said, “Today’s agreement ensures that the Department of Labor and the Department of Energy will work side by side to prepare the mining workforce, advance mining technology, and support the safe production of the coal that powers America’s future. It is our commitment to you that this MOU will further President Trump’s promise to restore coal as a key driver of America’s energy supply chain and American coal will again be the envy of the world for generations to come.”
Under this memorandum of understanding, DOE offices such as Hydrocarbons and Geothermal Energy Office (HGEO) and Office of Critical Minerals and Energy Innovation (CMEI) will collaborate with DOL’s Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA). They plan joint research projects involving artificial intelligence, automation, and advanced sensors; accelerate technology development at DOE labs; apply advanced technologies for hazard detection; identify workforce needs; digitize legacy data; and improve public datasets related to mineral resources.
Recent federal initiatives have focused on supporting clean energy transitions across multiple sectors. For example, $225 million was allocated for implementing building energy codes under President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. The department also announced a $96 million funding opportunity for decarbonizing transportation through expanded electric vehicle charging accessibility, according to DOE. Additionally, 146 programs were introduced in support of President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative targeting investments toward disadvantaged communities, according to DOE.
The new partnership between DOE and DOL is expected to foster collaborative research efforts while preparing workers for an increasingly technology-driven industry.