Recently, CRES Forum hosted its fourth CRES Academy session of the year: “Energy Appropriations 101: The Unique and Vital Role of Congressional Appropriations.” The event brought together experts in energy policy, markets and industry to help Hill staff better understand how the federal appropriations process shapes energy innovation, deployment and U.S. global competitiveness.
With a packed room of attendees, panelists explained how federal investments can produce more affordable, reliable clean energy solutions. Moderated by CRES Director of Congressional Policy Michael Yancey, the panel featured Molly Ross, Senior Public Affairs Advisor at Holland & Knight and Benton Arnett, Senior Director of Markets and Policy at the Nuclear Energy Institute. Panelists also shared practical guidance on how appropriations requests can be shaped to reflect local priorities and conservative values like energy independence, affordability and reliability.
The discussion also highlighted geopolitical stakes. With China investing aggressively in energy supply chains and innovation, panelists argued that U.S. support for research, development and demonstration (RD&D) are essential to staying competitive and ensuring long-term energy security.
And when it came to the importance of the appropriations process, panelists talked about how vital it is that the United States continue to smartly invest in energy sectors key to our nation’s national security interests.
As Congress continues deliberations on FY26 appropriations, CRES Forum will remain focused on educating staff and lawmakers about how commonsense, bipartisan investments in innovation can lower costs, create jobs and strengthen America’s energy future.