Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 5587, the Harnessing Energy At Thermal Sources (HEATS) Act, introduced by U.S. Rep. Young Kim (R-Calif.). The bill clarifies the permitting process for geothermal energy projects on non-federal lands.

“Geothermal is an affordable and reliable energy source that can help power America. I thank Representative Kim for leading the HEATS Act to eliminate duplicative permitting processes for geothermal resources on state and private lands. I urge the Senate to act quickly to pass this bill to help lower energy costs for American families.” - House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.)

“Energy independence has always made America great. Geothermal development will help unleash America’s all-of-the-above energy strategy and power America’s future. The HEATS Act cuts unnecessary red tape, strengthens our energy security and supply chains and brings more affordable, reliable power online. I’m proud to see this vital legislation pass the House. For Californians facing some of the highest energy costs in the country, this relief can’t come soon enough.”  - U.S. Rep. Young Kim (R-Calif.)

Background

The HEATS Act clarifies that geothermal operations on non-federal lands are not subject to federal permitting requirements in instances where the federal government owns less than 50 percent of the subsurface geothermal estate and receives a drilling permit from the respective state. The bill would not affect royalties paid to the federal government.

In the 118^th Congress, the HEATS Act passed the U.S. House of Representatives with strong bipartisan support.