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In the biggest federal boost for green car development in decades, the 2010 energy budget bill just signed into law by President Obama includes $814 million in funding for various alternative fuel and vehicle programs.


One provision, $283 million for fuel cells and hydrogen fuel, restored more than $100 million that in funds for automotive-specific programs that Energy Secretary Steven Chu initially proposed cutting from the budget.


Chu said at the time he didn't see fuel-cell electric cars as commercially viable in the next 15-20 years.


Automakers and fuel cell developers quickly rallied to persuade Congress that Chu hadn't see the whole picture and promised to have commercial quality fuel cell cars - which use hydrogen for energy production - in the market by 2015.


Other green aspects of the bill include $311 million to help fund various vehicle electrification and advanced internal combustion engine projects and $220 million for advanced biofuel development.


As expected, the bill was cheered by trade groups representing the fuel cell, biofuels and electric drive industries.

Tags: Biofuels, Fuel Cell, Hydrogen, Legislation, Plug-ins and Electric, 2010 Energy Budget, Biofuels, Electric Cars, Fuel Cells, Hydrogen

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Energy Budget is Now Law, Includes $814 Million Funding for Green Vehicles, Fuels was originally published by Green Car Advisor. Read the full story by clicking here.