The basis for U.S. Department of energy technology transfer in the 1990s

Abstract

This paper presents a historical background on technology transfer policy and programs, and their baseline measurement and evaluation in the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for the years 1981 through 1992. Specifically, an overview of Departmental research and development (R&D) laboratories briefly highlights the potential return on investment that could be gained through scientific investigation, R&D, and technology application. A historical description of federal technology transfer highlights the enabling legislation. Additionally, a discussion and summary of a 1985 Federal Laboratory Consortium (FLC) study provides a baseline assessment of technology transfer activities within DOE in the mid-1980s. The authors then discuss the findings presented by a landmark Energy Research Advisory Board Research and Technology Utilization study issued in 1988. Finally, the discussion focuses on the activities and subsequent contributions of the Technology Transfer Project Group, formed in 1990, and the Technology Transfer Field Task Force and the Technology Transfer Advisory Committee.