The Next-Generation Geothermal Research and Development Act amends the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 to establish a comprehensive federal program supporting advanced geothermal energy technologies. The bill creates a new Next-Generation Geothermal Research and Development Program within the Department of Energy, establishes a center of excellence for geothermal research, and institutes two grant programs: commercial-readiness innovation grants with up to 80% federal cost-share for drilling equipment and reservoir tools, and surface facility innovation grants to improve power generation efficiency. The legislation authorizes $5 million annually through 2031 for these programs and requires the Department of Interior to complete updated geothermal resource assessments within two to five years, with biennial progress reports to Congress. The bill targets emerging technologies like enhanced geothermal systems and closed-loop geothermal systems that can operate in locations with limited natural geothermal resources, aiming to make these technologies more viable and cost-effective for commercial energy production. This legislation affects energy developers, equipment manufacturers, research institutions, and federal energy agencies involved in advancing geothermal energy as a renewable power source.
Take Action
Your position
Add a comment
to comment on this bill.
Annotate the text
Highlight any passage on the Summary or Full Text tab to attach a note. Annotations appear on the Annotations tab.