42 U.S.C. § 13340

The Secretary shall pursue a program of research and development with respect to the technologies needed to expand the use of low-rank coals which take into account the unique properties of lignites and sub-bituminous coals, including, but not limited to, the following areas— (1) high value-added carbon products; (2) fuel cell applications; (3) emissions control and combustion efficiencies; (4) coal water fuels and underground coal gasification; (5) distillates; and (6) any other technologies which will assist in the development of niche markets for lignites and sub-bituminous coals.