Critical Materials Future Act of 2025

This bill creates a pilot program at the Department of Energy to grow U.S. processing and recycling of critical materials. It must start within 6 months of becoming law and back at least three U.S.-based projects; the program ends within five years. The aim is to steady supply chains, attract private investment, and strengthen energy and national security using new financial tools, like price supports (for example, contracts for differences).

DOE will pick projects within one year, favoring those that use domestic or reliable sources, are cost‑competitive, and can line up buyers. The agency will consult experts and local stakeholders, coordinate with other federal agencies, study what worked after the program ends, and report to Congress each year while it runs.

• Who is affected
  • U.S. companies that process or recycle critical materials (the kinds of projects this program supports).
  • Local communities that host these facilities and are included as stakeholders.
  • The broader U.S. economy that needs steady supplies of these materials.
• What changes
  • A new DOE pilot uses financial tools to stabilize markets and attract private investment.
  • It supports at least three different materials, and no more than half of the funds can go to any one material.
  • A Critical Materials Revolving Fund reinvests any revenue from supported projects.
  • Authorizes $750 million for the program.
• When
  • Starts within 6 months of becoming law.
  • DOE selects projects within 1 year.
  • Lasts up to 5 years.
  • A follow‑up study is due within 2 years after the program ends.