DOE Office of Critical Minerals and Energy Innovation

Stories

DOE launches $58 million push to scale up chemical production from waste feedstocks

Parent directorate issuing the ASPECT NOFO on behalf of AFFO

The U.S. chemical industry's output fell more than 8% since 2017, while global production grew 17%. On September 4, the Department of Energy (DOE) opened a $58 million funding window to reverse that slide. On October 14, it also announced plans to award up to $60 million more for chemicals, fertilizers, and fuels.

Updated Oct 26

Breaking China's grip on rare earths

Built World

As of May 2026: Awarded $45.7M to 19 critical minerals projects (May 2026); $134M rare earth demonstration facility award still pending

The United States imports roughly 80% of its rare earth elements and relies on China for over 90% of processing—materials essential to electric vehicles, wind turbines, and precision weapons. China's April 2025 export controls on seven heavy rare earths remain in force, with a broader set of restrictions due to expire in November 2026.

Updated May 31