This part contains the regulations of the Department of Energy (DOE) that implement Freedom of Information (FOIA) 5 U.S.C. 552, Pub. L. 89–487, as amended by Pub. L. 93–502, 88 Stat. 1561, by Pub. L. 94–409, 90 Stat. 1241, and by Pub. L. 99–570, 100 Stat. 3207–49, by Pub. L. 104–231, 110 Stat. 3048, by Pub.L. 110–175, 121 Stat. 2524, and by Pub. L.111–83 564, 123 Stat. 2142, 2184. The regulations of this part provide information concerning the procedures by which records may be requested from all DOE offices, excluding the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Records of the DOE made available pursuant to the requirements of 5 U.S.C. 552 shall be furnished to members of the public as prescribed by this part. Persons seeking information or records of the DOE may find it helpful to consult with a DOE FOIA Officer before invoking the formal procedures set out below. To the extent permitted by other laws, the DOE will make records available which it is authorized to withhold under 5 U.S.C. 552 whenever it determines that such disclosure is in the public interest.