Chu: Solar silicon not clear winner

US DOE Secretary Steven Chu makes clear that silicon and downstream manufacturers need to find cheaper ways to make photovoltaics, to spur adoption of solar power. The MDN reports. Tennessee, of course, has made major plays to attract Hemlock and Wacker, key polySi manufacturers.

Energy Secretary to Memphis

US Energy Secretary Steven Chu visited Memphis to promote the President's clean-fuel agenda and tour Sharp and Fedex facilities. The CA reports.

Oak Ridge NL gets Secretary's challenge

Fast Track: During a recent visit to Oak Ridge National Lab, Energy Secretary Steven Chu (left) signalled he wants to see 'Manhattan Project'-type approaches to tackling new-energy challenges, with less waiting around for funding reviews. UT-Battelle also got its contract extension for managing ORNL. And, ORNL Director Thom Mason reviewed the lab's accomplishments, in the KNS.

Oak Ridge luminaries discuss the Stimulus Era

[Updated March 26] ORNL Director and UT-Battelle CEO Thom Mason discusses the challenges and expectations facing ORNL in this KNS report. Recently elevated to deputy lab director, Thomas Zacharia (left) emphasizes ORNL's need to address "national imperatives." Jim Roberto gains echelon responsibility at critical time. And, complicating matters, ORNL is to get another $71 million in stimulation. Added: DOE Secretary Chu discusses his agency's spending of $1 billion plus.