(a) The council is created to advise and make recommendations to the governor and to the general assembly on how to:

(1) Identify all state energy resources to ensure a secure, stable, and more predictable energy supply;

(2) Manage the use of energy resources; and

(3) Increase domestic energy exploration, development, and production within the state and region, with the goal of promoting economic growth and job creation while ensuring the protection and preservation of the state's natural resources, cultural heritage, and quality of life.

(b) The council shall have the following general duties and responsibilities:

(1) Compile an annual report assessing the energy sector in this state, including the opportunities and the constraints presented by various uses of energy, to facilitate the expansion of the domestic energy supply, and to encourage the efficient use of all such energy forms in a manner consistent with state energy policy;

(2) Develop an ongoing comprehensive state energy policy plan to achieve maximum effective management and use of present and future sources of energy. The policy plan may include energy efficiency, renewable and alternative sources of energy, research and development into alternative energy technologies, and improvements to the state's energy infrastructure and energy economy, including smart grid and domestic energy resources, including, but not limited to, natural gas, coal, hydroelectric power, solar, wind, nuclear, and biomass;

(3) Create an annual energy policy plan that recommends:

(A) Necessary energy legislation to the governor and to the general assembly;

(B) The promulgation of necessary rules to regulatory boards charged with administering this title; and

(C) The implementation and modification of energy policy, plans, and programs as the council considers necessary and desirable;

(4) Continually review and coordinate all state government research, education, and management programs relating to energy matters;

(5) Educate and inform the general public regarding any energy matters; and

(6) Actively engage in discussions with federal government agencies and leaders to identify opportunities to increase domestic energy supply within this state.

(c) The council shall serve as the central energy policy planning body of the state and shall communicate and cooperate with federal, state, regional, and local bodies and agencies for the purpose of affecting a coordinated energy policy.