(a) In generalThe Secretary shall award grants, each such grant up to $10,000,000 per year, to institutions of higher education (or consortia thereof) for—
(1)
the continuation and expansion of the research, development, demonstration, testing, and commercial application activities at the National Marine Energy Centers (referred to in this section as “Centers”) established as of January 1, 2020; and
(b) Location selectionIn selecting institutions of higher education for new Centers, the Secretary shall consider the following criteria:
(c) PurposesThe Centers shall coordinate among themselves, the Department, and National Laboratories to—
(1)
advance research, development, demonstration, and commercial application of marine energy technologies in response to industry and commercial needs;
(2) support in-water testing and demonstration of marine energy technologies, including facilities capable of testing—
(3)
collect and disseminate information on best practices in all areas relating to developing and managing marine energy resources and energy systems.
(d) Coordination
To the extent practicable, the Centers shall coordinate their activities with the Secretary of Commerce, acting through the Undersecretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere, and other relevant Federal agencies.
(e) Termination
To the extent otherwise authorized by law, the Secretary may terminate funding for a Center described in paragraph (a) if such Center is under-performing.
(Pub. L. 110–140, title VI, § 636, as added Pub. L. 116–260, div. Z, title III, § 3001(a), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2484.)