The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is significantly investing in energy storage and battery technology, announcing funding opportunities totaling over $43 million aimed at enhancing battery manufacturing and safety as part of transportation decarbonization efforts. A notable initiative includes the establishment of the Grid Storage Launchpad (GSL) in Washington, which is designed to develop grid-scale energy storage technologies amidst rising electricity demands driven by factors such as AI advancements and climate change. Additionally, DOE's Office of Electricity is introducing the CiFER Funding Opportunity for large-scale energy storage projects that ensure resiliency during outages. Meanwhile, Wright Electric has secured a contract from the U.S. Air Force to explore the use of its rechargeable thermal batteries for unmanned aerial vehicles, emphasizing the need for high power output. The funding initiatives align with the U.S. National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization, which aims to eliminate emissions from the transportation sector by 2050. These developments collectively aim to bolster the domestic supply chain for battery materials while driving innovation in energy storage technologies.