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HR 8790

Next-Generation Geothermal Research and Development Act

119th Congress Introduced by Pat Harrigan and 1 co-sponsor

The bill directs federal R&D, demonstrations, and commercialization efforts to develop next-generation and closed-loop geothermal systems across challenging subsurface environments

Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
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Bill Summary · HR 8790

Overview

HR 8790 is a bill introduced in the 119th Congress with the goal of advancing geothermal energy technologies. Specifically, it seeks to amend the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 to direct research, development, demonstration, and commercial application activities in support of next-generation geothermal and closed-loop geothermal systems under varying subsurface conditions. The bill includes involvement from multiple federal committees and has two named bipartisan co-sponsors.

Purpose and Intent

  • Expand federal support for next-generation geothermal energy, with a focus on both conventional and closed-loop geothermal systems.
  • Promote research, development, demonstration, and eventual commercial deployment of advanced geothermal technologies across a range of subsurface environments.
  • Align energy policy with opportunities to diversify energy sources, improve reliability, and potentially reduce greenhouse gas emissions through expanded geothermal use.

Key Provisions and Changes

  • Amends the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 to explicitly authorize and direct federal activities related to:
    • Research and development (R&D) of next-generation geothermal technologies.
    • Demonstration projects to validate performance and feasibility under real-world conditions.
    • Commercial deployment efforts to accelerate adoption and market readiness.
  • Emphasizes closed-loop geothermal system development, which uses underground heat exchange fluids in a sealed loop to avoid groundwater interactions and enable various installation scenarios.
  • Targets conditions and environments typical of geothermal reservoirs, including challenging geologies and temperatures, to broaden applicability and resilience of future systems.
  • Likely directs federal programs (within the scope of energy and science/government research agencies) to prioritize funding, partnerships with industry, academia, and national laboratories, and potential deployment incentives or pilot programs.

Note: The exact mechanisms (e.g., funding levels, grant programs, or regulatory changes) are not detailed in the provided summary. The bill’s language would determine the specific actions, reporting requirements, and implementation timelines.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Federal agencies involved in energy research, development, and demonstration (notably those under the jurisdiction of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee and the Natural Resources Committee).
  • Geothermal industry stakeholders including developers, equipment manufacturers, service providers, and project developers seeking federal support for R&D, pilots, and commercialization.
  • Academic researchers and national laboratories engaged in geothermal science, reservoir engineering, and closed-loop system technologies.
  • Local communities and potential project sites that may host demonstration or pilot projects.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Introduced in the House and subsequently referred to two committees: Science, Space, and Technology, and Natural Resources.
  • Referral was with a period to be determined by the Speaker for consideration of provisions within each committee’s jurisdiction.
  • Two co-sponsors are listed: Andrea Salinas and Pat Harrigan, indicating bipartisan involvement.
  • No specific amendments, funding authorizations, or dates are provided in the available information. The final shape of the bill would depend on committee markups and any subsequent floor action.

Potential Impacts and Considerations

  • Could increase federal funding and support for geothermally oriented R&D and demonstration projects, potentially accelerating commercialization of next-generation and closed-loop geothermal systems.
  • May advance energy diversification strategies and resilience by expanding reliable low-tect, low-emission geothermal options.
  • Could influence regulatory and permitting processes indirectly by shaping federal program priorities and funding opportunities.
  • Stakeholders should monitor for specifics on funding levels, project eligibility, geographic focus, environmental safeguards, and timelines once the bill is refined in committee.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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