The U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels and Feedstocks Office (AFFO) is at the forefront of transforming how we produce, store, deliver, and use alternative fuels, fertilizers, chemicals, and feedstocks. By focusing on research, development, and demonstration (RD&D), AFFO aims to enhance the security and reliability of energy networks while lowering energy costs for Americans. This office is a cornerstone in the journey towards energy independence, leveraging collaborations with National Laboratories, academia, and industry to establish a secure domestic supply chain and invigorate the U.S. workforce.
AFFO’s mission is multifaceted, encompassing the cost-effective conversion of feedstocks to affordable chemicals and strategic fuels, the development of fuel-flexible fuel cells for prime and backup power, and the production of performance-enhanced chemicals to advance U.S. manufacturing dominance. Additionally, AFFO is committed to reducing the reliance on imported fertilizers by providing cost-effective domestic alternatives derived from hydrogen and biomass. The office also leverages artificial intelligence to spur innovation, advance technology readiness levels, and enable commercialization.
AFFO’s Strategic Focus Areas
AFFO’s strategic initiatives are designed to address critical aspects of energy production and usage. These include:
- Cost-effective conversion of feedstocks to affordable chemicals and strategic fuels, ensuring a sustainable and economical energy supply.
- Fuel-flexible fuel cells that provide reliable prime and backup power for U.S. data centers and other growing electrical loads, enhancing energy resilience.
- Performance-enhanced chemicals that advance U.S. manufacturing dominance, fostering innovation and economic growth.
- Domestic alternatives to imported fertilizers, utilizing hydrogen and biomass to reduce dependency on foreign sources.
- Artificial intelligence integration to spur innovation, advance technology readiness levels, and enable commercialization of cutting-edge energy solutions.
Program Areas and Initiatives
AFFO’s programs are designed to conduct analysis, develop technologies, and inform regulations and workforce training. One such program is the Analysis, Codes, and Standards program, which conducts research to enable the safe use of alternative fuels and feedstocks. This program also informs common-sense regulations, codes, standards, and workforce training, ensuring that the transition to alternative energy sources is safe and efficient.
In addition to ongoing programs, AFFO has launched several initiatives to accelerate the mobilization of purpose-grown energy crops. The Regional Biomass Resource Hub Initiative (RBRH) announced in June 2026, is a prime example. This initiative aims to create clean fuels and products by leveraging purpose-grown energy crops, furthering the goal of a sustainable and secure energy future.
Another significant initiative is the Multi-Year Program Plan (MYPP) published in. This plan outlines the mission, goals, and strategic approach of the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies Office, aligning with broader clean energy priorities of the U.S. Department of Energy. The MYPP serves as a roadmap for achieving energy independence and fostering innovation in the hydrogen and fuel cell technologies sector.
Resources and Contact Information
For those interested in learning more about AFFO’s initiatives and programs, a wealth of resources is available. The office provides detailed information on its website, including news, publications, and upcoming events. To stay informed, individuals can subscribe to receive updates on alternative fuels and feedstocks, including newsletters and funding opportunities.
For direct inquiries, the AFFO can be contacted via email at [email protected]. The office is located in Washington, DC, and is part of the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Energy for Critical Minerals and Energy Innovation. This strategic placement underscores AFFO’s commitment to advancing energy innovation and securing a sustainable energy future for all Americans.
