IEA Guide to Reporting Energy Technology RD&D Budgets

About this report

This manual, developed by the International Energy Agency (IEA), provides comprehensive guidance for national experts responsible for reporting energy technology research, development, and demonstration (RD&D) budgets. It outlines the methodology and classification system used to collect and structure RD&D data across IEA member countries, ensuring consistency and comparability. The manual is divided into two main sections: fundamentals of RD&D budget reporting and a detailed classification of energy technologies. It defines RD&D in alignment with the OECD Frascati Manual and clarifies the scope of public and private sector reporting. It also provides instructions for completing the IEA questionnaire, covering budgetary stages, metadata reporting, and common issues. The classification system spans nine major technology groups, including energy end uses, fossil fuels, renewables, nuclear, hydrogen, CO₂ capture, critical minerals, and cross-cutting technologies. This structure supports accurate data collection and policy analysis, enabling governments and stakeholders to track RD&D investments and inform strategic decisions. The manual serves as a reference tool to improve the quality and transparency of energy RD&D statistics globally.