Next Generation Pipelines Research and Development Act
H.R. 2613, the Next Generation Pipelines Research and Development Act, would expand federal efforts to advance next-generation pipeline systems through stronger public-private partnerships and new DOE-DOT-NIST collaboration. It creates and funds three main strands: (1) an Advanced Pipeline Materials and Technologies Demonstration Initiative within the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act framework to fund demonstrations of low- to mid-TRL pipeline tech (e.g., new materials, advanced sensors, cybersecure monitoring, and environmental safeguards); (2) a Joint Research and Development Program to develop cost-effective materials and technologies for pipelines, support commercialization and standards, and pursue projects not covered by the PHMSA Pipeline Safety Research Program; and (3) a National Pipeline Modernization Center to coordinate research, development, and demonstration efforts and to help commercialize innovations. It also authorizes a dedicated NIST pipeline metrology program to improve measurement, testing, and standards, and requires cross-agency coordination among DOE, DOT, and other federal entities. The act is designed to run for five years, with specific funding tables for the new programs and offsets to existing authorization levels to help finance them. The bill emphasizes safety, resilience, environmental protection, and rural/underserved communities.
Key Points
- 1Advanced Pipeline Materials and Technologies Demonstration Initiative: Establishes a new initiative (within IIJA) to fund competitive, merit-reviewed demonstration projects on next-generation pipeline technologies at low- to mid-TRL. Focus areas include leak detection, advanced materials and coatings, retrofitting and material compatibility, novel manufacturing, advanced sensors (including wireless, fiber optics, autonomous systems), data analytics and machine learning, self-healing materials, autonomous inspection/repair robotics, dynamic compressor tech, cybersecurity, environmental impact reduction, and tools for repurposing existing infrastructure for alternative fuels and CO2 transport. Projects should prioritize diversity (geography, rural participation), funding diversity (cost ranges), and coordination with existing infrastructure and centers.
- 2Joint Research and Development Program: Creates a DOE-led joint program (in coordination with DOT and NIST) to develop cost-effective advanced pipeline materials and technologies, support commercialization and standards development, and pursue low-TRL work not covered by PHMSA’s Pipeline Safety Research Program. It requires a memorandum of understanding within one year to define capabilities, cost sharing, and administration. The program uses existing DOE facilities, DOT initiatives, and NIST capabilities, with potential for new infrastructure as needed.
- 3National Pipeline Modernization Center: Establishes a Center to collaborate with industry and stakeholders on R&D and demonstration projects aimed at commercializing cost-effective pipeline technologies. It must be run with an eligible entity on a competitive, merit-reviewed basis, prioritize higher-education energy centers, operate for up to five years, be located near critical transportation infrastructure, and link with training programs to improve pipeline inspectors’ skills. The Center’s activities must avoid duplicating other centers (e.g., LNG safety center).
- 4NIST Pipeline Metrology: Directs NIST to run a measurement R&D and standardization program to ensure pipeline integrity and safety, with testing and research infrastructure supported in collaboration with DOT and private sector/international standards bodies. Up to $2.5 million per year is allocated (FY2026-2030).
- 5Funding and Sunset: The bill authorizes funding for the new initiatives (roughly $45 million/year for the Demonstration Initiative for 2026, then $50 million/year 2027-2030; $20 million/year for the Joint R&D Program in 2026 followed by $30 million/year 2027-2030; and $10 million/year for the National Pipeline Modernization Center in 2026 followed by $15 million/year 2027-2030). All new sections sunset five years after enactment. The bill also includes budgetary offsets within existing authorizations to finance these programs, reducing some previously authorized amounts in the related energy R&D program.
- 6Cross-Agency Coordination: The measure emphasizes avoiding duplication and maximizing shared goals by coordinating across DOE offices, DOT (PHMSA and related programs), NIST, and other agencies, as well as ensuring compatibility with national standards and safety regimes.
- 7Eligible Entities: Eligible participants include universities (including HBCUs, tribal colleges, and minority-serving institutions), nonprofit research organizations, national laboratories, private companies, and consortia that leverage DOE efforts or are deemed appropriate by the Secretary.