(a) The Secretary of Energy shall conduct a program of applied research relevant to (1) the improvement of solar heating components and systems and (2) the development and commercial application of combined solar heating and cooling components and systems as contemplated by the programs under this subchapter.

(b) The Secretary of Energy shall apprise the Secretary and the Administrator on a continuing basis of the results of the programs being conducted in accordance with subsection (a), and the Secretary and the Administrator shall insure that such results, where appropriate, are incorporated into the development and demonstration programs established by this subchapter.