Third, we need to invest in research in technologies that might reduce environmental conflicts. For instance, some alternatives to lithium batteries might involve more readily available ingredients whose production would pose lower environmental costs. Better utility-scale storage would also make it easier to take full advantage of existing resources. An example is being able to take fuller advantage of peak periods of wind energy, which are generally at night when power demand is low.

3. Which level of government typically funds research and development or other incentives for new technologies? What is the legal authority in that level of government that empowers investments in new technologies?