The Secretary shall conduct a program of research, development, demonstration, and commercial application for the purpose of developing economically and environmentally acceptable advanced technologies for oil substitution through coal liquefaction.

The goals of the program established under subsection (a) shall include—

(1) improved resource selection and product quality;

(2) the development of technologies to increase net yield of liquid fuel product per ton of coal;

(3) an increase in overall thermal efficiency; and

(4) a reduction in capital and operating costs through technology improvements.

Within 180 days after October 24, 1992, the Secretary shall solicit proposals for conducting activities under this section.

(Pub. L. 102–486, title XIII, § 1312, Oct. 24, 1992, 106 Stat. 2976.)