It has often been said that the only constant is change.
Progress is achieved only when change is directed toward defined goals and objectives.
Innovation, which is the ability to direct change based upon a strong scientific and technological infrastructure, has been a characteristic strength of this nation. The Department of Energy exercises stewardship responsibility for the scientific and technological infrastructure that supports the innovation that has created our national and economic security and environmental integrity. Today the Department of Energy is one of the largest sponsors of basic and applied research and development for the nation. These business lines comprise the four major mission areas through which all the Department's activities are directed, providing a comprehensive, integrated view of the Department's programs and offices and the context within which the programs and offices manage and execute their funding. A major aspect of the new approach has been the initiation of business line research and development investment portfolios.