The Secretary shall pursue a program of research and development with respect to the technologies needed to expand the use of low-rank coals which take into account the unique properties of lignites and sub-bituminous coals, including, but not limited to, the following areas—

((1)) high value-added carbon products;

((2)) fuel cell applications;

((3)) emissions control and combustion efficiencies;

((4)) coal water fuels and underground coal gasification;

((5)) distillates; and

((6)) any other technologies which will assist in the development of niche markets for lignites and sub-bituminous coals.