Geothermal Energy Streamlining: Fewer Permits, Faster Development.
This new law simplifies the permitting process for geothermal drilling on private lands, potentially accelerating renewable energy development. Citizens might benefit from increased access to clean energy, though the act exempts some activities from federal environmental and historical regulations, which could raise concerns. These changes do not apply to Indian lands.
Key points
No federal drilling permit required for geothermal activities on non-federal surface estates if a state permit is obtained and the U.S. owns less than 50% of subsurface geothermal estate.
Geothermal activities on private land will not be considered a major federal action for environmental review or require additional federal action, speeding up project timelines.
The act does not affect federal royalties from geothermal energy production and explicitly excludes Indian lands from its provisions.
VOTING RESULTS
2024-11-14
55%
For
225
Against
181
Abstain
0
Expired
Citizen Poll