(a) Program direction

(1) The Secretary shall conduct a 5-year program, in accordance with sections 13541 and 13542 of this title, on energy efficient natural gas and electric heating and cooling technologies for residential and commercial buildings.

(2) The natural gas heating and cooling program shall include activities on—

(A) thermally activated heat pumps, including absorption heat pumps and engine-driven heat pumps; and

(B) other advanced natural gas technologies, including fuel cells for residential and commercial applications.

(3) The electric heating and cooling program shall focus on—

(A) advanced heat pumps;

(B) thermal storage; and

(C) advanced electric HVAC (heating, ventilating, and air conditioning) and refrigeration systems that utilize replacements for chlorofluorocarbons.

(b) Proposals
Within 180 days after October 24, 1992, the Secretary shall solicit proposals for conducting activities under this section.