Section 79-6-1004 - Utah San Rafael Energy Lab established - Lab director(1) There is established within the office a program and facility known as the Utah San Rafael Energy Lab to facilitate innovative energy research and development projects.(2) The lab shall: (a) receive and evaluate project proposals;(b) submit recommendations to the board for approval regarding specific project proposals based on the lab's evaluation;(c) conduct innovative energy technology research and development projects that have commercialization potential and support the state's energy policy goals;(d) enter into financial contracts with entities seeking to use the lab, with revenues deposited into the Utah Energy Research Fund created in Section 79-6-1002;(e) assess the viability of emerging energy solutions for deployment within the state, considering: (v) environmental impact;(f) provide analysis and recommendations to policymakers regarding energy system planning, infrastructure needs, and the value of different energy initiatives being considered within the state; and(g) collaborate with universities, industry partners, entrepreneurs, community representatives, and other research entities.(3)(a) The director shall appoint a full-time lab director with the consent of the board to oversee the day-to-day operations of the lab.(b) The lab director shall report to the director.(c) As funding allows, the office may employ staff to support the lab's operations.Added by Chapter 496, 2024 General Session ,§ 4, eff. 5/1/2024.