119th (2025–2027)
H.R. 7568
The Hot Rock Act establishes federal programs to research and develop "hot dry rock" geothermal energy—an advanced technology that taps into extremely hot underground reservoirs to generate electricity and heat. The bill authorizes $107 million in funding across fiscal years 2027 through 2031, directed primarily through the Department of Energy, the U.S. Geological Survey, and the Department of Labor to support research grants, build testing facilities, conduct risk monitoring, and train workers in geothermal technology. Eligible recipients include National Laboratories, universities, and private companies that will focus on overcoming technical challenges like drilling at extreme temperatures, managing reservoir systems, and developing new equipment and materials. The legislation also affects oil and gas industry workers, technicians, and union members in designated "energy communities" who can participate in cross-training programs to transition into the geothermal sector, while streamlining federal permitting processes on public lands to accelerate hot dry rock project development.