The Department shall have the following powers and duties:
     (a) To solicit, accept and approve or disapprove applications for financial support of coal research projects and coal demonstration and commercialization projects.
     (b) To enter into contracts with business, industrial, university, governmental or other qualified individuals or organizations to carry out programs to increase public awareness and education concerning Illinois coal, to implement coal research and coal demonstration and commercialization projects, and to carry out programs designed to preserve and enhance markets for Illinois coal.
     (c) To make a reasonable attempt, before initiating any projects under this Act, to avoid duplication of support for previous or ongoing activities, or projects that would be more appropriately funded under the Illinois Coal and Energy Development Bond Act.
     (d) To seek, accept and expend gifts or grants in any form, from any public agency or any other source, for the purposes of this Act.
     (e) To adopt, amend and repeal rules, regulations and guidelines to implement and administer this Act.