H.R. 2980: Energy Cybersecurity University Leadership Act of 2025

This bill, titled the Energy Cybersecurity University Leadership Act of 2025, aims to enhance education and research in the field of energy cybersecurity through the establishment of a specific program by the Secretary of Energy. Below are the key components of the bill:

Establishment of the Energy Cybersecurity University Leadership Program

The Secretary of Energy is required to create a new program known as the Energy Cybersecurity University Leadership Program. This program will focus on activities that foster cybersecurity skills in relation to energy infrastructure.

Program Activities

The program will:

• Provide Financial Assistance: Offer financial help in a competitive manner for scholarships, fellowships, and research and development projects at institutions of higher education. This assistance is targeted at graduate students and postdoctoral researchers who are studying areas that combine cybersecurity knowledge with energy infrastructure.
• Offer Research Traineeships: Allow participants in the program to gain practical experience by working at National Laboratories and utilities, helping to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application.
• Outreach Initiatives: Conduct outreach efforts aimed at increasing participation from historically Black colleges and universities, Tribal Colleges or Universities, and other minority-serving institutions, ensuring a diverse range of students can access these opportunities.

Reporting Requirements

The Secretary of Energy must submit a report to the relevant congressional committees within one year of the bill's enactment. This report should detail how the program is being developed and implemented.

Definitions

To clarify terms related to the bill:

• The Department refers to the Department of Energy.
• Historically Black colleges and universities are defined as institutions recognized under certain sections of the Higher Education Act.
• Institution of higher education is defined in accordance with federal education laws.
• Minority-serving institutions are eligible colleges defined by specific criteria in the Higher Education Act.
• National Laboratories are defined per the Energy Policy Act guidelines.
• Tribal Colleges or Universities are defined following the stipulations in the Higher Education Act.

Relevant Companies

None found