Next-Generation Geothermal Research and Development Act
- Bill Number
- H.R. 8790
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 2
- Policy Area
- Energy
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2026-05-20: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.
- Last Updated
- 2026-06-15T14:00:50Z
AI-Generated Summary
## Purpose This legislation amends the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 to expand federal support for research, development, demonstration, and commercial application of next-generation geothermal systems, including closed-loop and supercritical geothermal technologies. It aims to advance these technologies across various geological conditions through targeted programs, data initiatives, and funding.
## Key Provisions
- Definitions and Scope: Introduces new terms such as "closed-loop geothermal systems" (wellbores with fluid heated by contact with the borehole wall), "next-generation geothermal systems" (encompassing enhanced systems, closed-loop systems, and those in supercritical conditions), and "supercritical geothermal" (energy from subsurface resources at or above supercritical temperature or pressure).
- Research and Development Updates: Modifies existing sections to include machine learning tools, broader data sharing across Department of Energy offices, and public access to subsurface data from fossil fuel and mining operations.
- New Program Elements: Establishes a next-generation geothermal research program focusing on well completion, permeability management, materials for supercritical conditions, sensors, and hard rock drilling. It also creates a center of excellence at National Laboratories or universities and awards commercial-readiness grants (with up to 80% federal cost share) for technologies like hardrock drilling equipment and reservoir characterization.
- Data and Assessment Requirements: Mandates updates to a public data repository, memoranda of understanding for interagency data sharing, drilling of exploration boreholes, and a quadrennial update to the U.S. geothermal resource assessment that includes supercritical potential in all states and territories.
- Reporting and Funding: Requires reports on water use for these systems and progress on commercialization barriers. Authorizes $150 million annually from fiscal years 2027 through 2031 for the Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.
## Significant Changes to Existing Law
- Renames and expands the enhanced geothermal systems section (section 615) to cover next-generation systems, including closed-loop and supercritical variants, with new focus areas and testing capabilities at FORGE sites.
- Shifts section 614 to require periodic repository updates for standardized, accessible data and interagency coordination with the Department of the Interior.
- Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to require quadrennial (instead of periodic) geothermal resource assessments that explicitly include supercritical potential in U.S. territories.
- Updates reporting requirements in section 617 to address next-generation technologies and commercialization barriers.
## Potential Impacts
- On Government Agencies: Increases coordination between the Department of Energy, Department of the Interior, and National Laboratories for data collection and research; requires new administrative actions like memoranda of understanding and site-specific studies.
- On Citizens and Economy: May support job creation and workforce development in geothermal-related fields through grants and a center of excellence; could influence energy costs and resource mapping in diverse regions, including territories.
- On International Relations: No direct effects identified, though inclusion of U.S. territories broadens domestic resource assessment.
- Environmental Aspects: Directs a report on water use, withdrawal, and consumption for next-generation systems compared to other energy sources, along with potential improvements using nonpotable water.
## Main Stakeholders Affected
- Department of Energy (primary implementer through its Geothermal Technologies Office and Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy).
- U.S. Geological Survey and Department of the Interior (for resource assessments and data sharing).
- National Laboratories, universities, and private sector entities (eligible for grants and centers of excellence).
- Geothermal energy industry and related sectors (mining, critical minerals).
- State, local, and Tribal governments (recipients of technical assistance and data).
## Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications The bill operates within existing congressional authority over energy policy and appropriations, with no apparent constitutional conflicts. It emphasizes public data sharing and interagency collaboration but introduces no new regulatory mandates on private activities. Politically, it promotes expanded federal investment in renewable energy technologies without altering core energy statutes beyond research provisions.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Cosponsors (1)
Recent Actions
- 2026-05-20: Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.
- 2026-05-20: Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
- 2026-05-13: Referred to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, and in addition to the Committee on Natural Resources, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
- 2026-05-13: Referred to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, and in addition to the Committee on Natural Resources, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
- 2026-05-13: Introduced in House
- 2026-05-13: Introduced in House
Bill Versions
- Next-Generation Geothermal Research and Development Act — issued 2026-05-13 — PDF (19 pages)