Next-Generation Geothermal Research and Development Act

Key Points

• The bill authorizes $150 million per year from 2027 through 2031 (totaling $750 million) for research, development, demonstration, and commercial application of next-generation geothermal energy systems, including closed-loop and supercritical geothermal technologies.
• A new Center of Excellence would be established through competitive grants to coordinate geothermal research, support workforce development, and help move these technologies from the lab to commercial use.
• The bill requires federal agencies to share underground data from mining, oil, and mineral projects in a public repository, so researchers can find the best sites for geothermal plants without duplicating costly exploration work.
• Within five years, the Department of Energy must report to Congress on how much water these systems need and whether they can use brackish or nonpotable water instead of fresh drinking water.
• The bill also extends geothermal resource assessments to U.S. territories including Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, with the first updated assessment due within two years.