"The Department of Energy (DOE) has four main missions: 1) ensuring a dependable energy supply for the American economy;(FAIL) 2) ensuring a secure, reliable nuclear deterrent for the nation’s defense;(Currently being reduced by Obama) 3) improving environmental quality related to energy production;(FAIL - we arguably increase enbironmental quality, but don't produce energy) and 4) advancing science and technology in energy-related areas.(FAIL - no viable alternatives to fossil or nuclear fules) The Department supplements private-sector research efforts to enhance domestic energy production, develop new and cleaner sources of energy, and improve energy conservation and efficiency." 16,000 federal and 100,000 contractors 2003 Spending: $19.8 billion
FOR WHAT? http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/rewrite/budget/fy2004/energy.html