; and (B) capabilities that support the Department’s mission needs for energy and infrastructure security, resilience, and reliability. (3) User facilities (A) In general In carrying out the activities authorized under paragraph (1), the Director shall establish and operate user facilities to advance the collection, validation, and analysis of atmospheric data, including activities to advance knowledge and improve model representations and measure the impact of atmospheric gases, aerosols, and clouds on earth and environmental systems. (B) Existing facilities To the maximum extent practicable, the Director shall utilize existing facilities to carry out this subsection. (C) Selection The Director shall select user facilities under paragraph (1) on a competitive, merit-reviewed basis. The Director shall consider applications from the National Laboratories, institutes of higher education, multi-institutional collaborations, and other appropriate entities. (D) Termination Consistent with the existing authorities of the Department, the Director may terminate an underperforming user facility for cause during the performance period. (4) Coordination In carrying out the program authorized in paragraph (1), the Director shall ensure that the Office of Science— (A) consults and coordinates with the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, the Environmental Protection Agency, and any other relevant Federal agency on the collection, validation, and analysis of atmospheric data