H.R. 301: Geothermal Energy Opportunity Act
This bill, titled the Geothermal Energy Opportunity Act (or GEO Act), aims to amend the existing Geothermal Steam Act of 1970. The main purpose of this legislation is to set specific timelines for the processing of applications related to geothermal energy leasing, which includes permits for geothermal drilling and other necessary authorizations.
Key Provisions of the Bill
- Processing Applications Within a Deadline: The bill requires that applications for geothermal drilling permits, sundry notices, notices to proceed, and rights-of-way must be processed by the Secretary of the Interior within 60 days, provided that all necessary requirements under federal laws and regulations are met. This includes compliance with environmental laws such as the National Environmental Policy Act and the Endangered Species Act.
- Impact of Civil Actions: Even if there are pending civil actions (lawsuits) affecting a geothermal application, the bill mandates that applications must still be processed unless a federal court has ruled to vacate or stop the application through an injunction.
- No Changes to Court Authority: The legislation clarifies that it does not change the existing authority of federal courts to intervene in the leasing process through vacating or providing injunctive relief.
- Definition of Authorization: The act defines "authorization" as any license, permit, approval, or other decision made by a federal agency that is necessary for the establishment or operation of a geothermal project.
Overall, the GEO Act seeks to streamline the application process for geothermal energy projects, potentially making it easier and quicker for companies to obtain the necessary permissions to operate in this sector.
Relevant Companies
- ORGAN - A company involved in geothermal energy exploration and development may find the expedited process beneficial for advancing its projects.
- CYP - Another geothermal energy firm that could see a positive impact from faster processing of their drilling applications.
This is an AI-generated summary of the bill text. There may be mistakes.
Sponsors
8 bill sponsors
Actions
9 actions
| Date | Action |
|---|---|
| May. 20, 2026 | Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 568. |
| May. 20, 2026 | Reported by the Committee on Natural Resources. H. Rept. 119-654. |
| Mar. 05, 2026 | Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held |
| Mar. 05, 2026 | Ordered to be Reported by Unanimous Consent. |
| Mar. 05, 2026 | Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources Discharged |
| Dec. 16, 2025 | Subcommittee Hearings Held |
| Dec. 09, 2025 | Referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources. |
| Jan. 09, 2025 | Introduced in House |
| Jan. 09, 2025 | Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources. |
Corporate Lobbying
1 company lobbying
