Steven Chu: “I see great potential in solar thermal plants.”

Whether the investors are Republicans or Democrats did not enter into any decision as to whether we were going to fund the loan.

It is, quite frankly, ours to lose because we still have the best research institutions.

I think many of my Republican colleagues see energy research as an appropriate role for the Federal Government.

Taking greater advantage of energy efficiency, demand resources, and clean energy--WHILE AT THE SAME TIME REDUCING COSTS TO CONSUMERS--requires a transition to a more flexible and resilient electric grid and much greater coordination among…