(a)  The Secretary shall establish a research, development, demonstration, and commercial application program on metallurgical coal utilization for the purpose of developing techniques that will lead to the greater and more efficient utilization of the Nation’s metallurgical coal resources.

(b)  The program referred to in subsection (a) shall include the use of metallurgical coal⁠—

(1)  as a boiler fuel for the purpose of generating steam to produce electricity, including blending metallurgical coal with other coals in order to enhance its efficient application as a boiler fuel;

(2)  as an ingredient in the manufacturing of steel; and

(3)  as a source of pipeline quality coalbed methane.