H.R. 1534: Innovative Mitigation Partnerships for Asphalt and Concrete Technologies Act

This bill, known as the Innovative Mitigation Partnerships for Asphalt and Concrete Technologies Act (IMPACT Act), aims to enhance American industry by funding research and development focused on advanced technologies for producing cement, concrete, and asphalt. Here’s an overview of the main components of the bill:

1. Establishing a Research Program

The bill mandates the creation of a program within the Department of Energy to research, develop, demonstrate, and commercially apply new tools and technologies for the production of low-emissions cement, concrete, and asphalt. The goal is to:

• Improve the competitiveness of the U.S. industry.
• Strengthen supply chains through more domestic production.
• Reduce greenhouse gas emissions related to production.
• Create jobs in the domestic market.

2. Definitions and Terms

This section clarifies key terms related to the bill:

• Advanced Production: Refers to producing these materials with improved cost-effectiveness, quality, and resource efficiency.
• Low-Emissions Cement, Concrete, and Asphalt: Products designed to minimize greenhouse gas emissions during production.
• Eligible Entities: Institutions that can apply for funding include universities, state or federal entities, and private organizations.

3. Strategic Planning and Focus Areas

Within 180 days of the program's establishment, the Secretary of Energy is required to develop a five-year strategic plan outlining the research and development goals focusing on:

• Carbon capture technologies.
• Materials that produce fewer emissions.
• Energy-efficient production processes.
• Development of high-performance materials through advanced computation.

4. Demonstration Projects

The bill also provides for demonstration projects to test new technologies in real-world settings. These projects will be selected based on:

• The diversity of the participating entities.
• The potential for significant emissions reductions.
• The involvement of matching federal and non-federal funding.

Projects can utilize a single technology or a combination of methods to create low-emissions products.

5. Technical Assistance

In collaboration with relevant departments, the Secretary will provide technical assistance to eligible entities to support activities like:

• Updating local codes and specifications to reflect new technologies.
• Conducting lifecycle assessments of new products.

6. Federal Coordination

The bill emphasizes the need for coordination between various federal agencies involved in economic development and environmental efforts. These efforts include considering input from agencies like the Department of Defense and the Environmental Protection Agency.

7. Duration and Reporting

The program will remain in effect for seven years, with the Secretary required to report on progress and outcomes every two years. Updates to the strategic plan will also be submitted periodically.

8. Rule of Construction

The bill clarifies that it does not alter existing environmental standards related to the production of cement, concrete, and asphalt.

Relevant Companies

• HEES (H&E Equipment Services, Inc.): A company that might benefit from increased demand for low-emission construction materials and related machinery.
• XYL (Xylem Inc.): Consultation and solutions related to water resources may see increased activity as infrastructure development ramps up with low-emission materials.
• WY (Weyerhaeuser Company): As a timber company, it could be impacted by changing demands in the construction sector, especially regarding materials and sustainability practices.