EERE invests in clean energy technologies that strengthen the economy, protect the environment, and reduce dependence on foreign oil. By partnering with industry, state and local governments, universities, and manufacturers, EERE plays a critical role in improving energy efficiency practices and increasing their adoption by American consumers, industry, and governments.

The Department of Energy's overarching mission is to advance the national, economic, and energy security of the United States; to promote scientific and technological innovation in support of that mission; and to ensure the environmental cleanup of the national nuclear weapons complex. The Department's strategic goals to achieve the mission are designed to deliver results along five strategic themes: Energy Security: Promoting America’s energy security through reliable, clean, and affordable energy Nuclear Security: Ensuring America’s nuclear security Scientific Discovery and Innovation: Strengthening U.S. scientific discovery, economic competitiveness, and improving quality of life through innovations in science and technology Environmental Responsibility: Protecting the environment by providing a responsible resolution to the environmental legacy of nuclear weapons production Management Excellence: Enabling the mission through sound management