DATE INTRODUCED:

02/27/2025

WHAT:

The Committing Leases for Energy Access Now (CLEAN) Act (H.R. 1687) updates the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 to require annual geothermal lease sales on federally managed lands and mandates timely permitting decisions for geothermal drilling projects. The bill directs the Department of the Interior to conduct at least one geothermal lease sale per year in each qualifying state and to hold replacement sales within the same year if any scheduled sale is canceled or delayed. It also compels the Department to offer all eligible nominated parcels during each sale.

To streamline project development, the bill imposes clear deadlines for geothermal drilling permit applications. Within 30 days of receiving a permit application, the Secretary must either notify the applicant that the submission is complete or identify what additional information is needed. Once complete, the Department must issue a final decision on the permit within 30 days. These provisions create a more predictable and efficient leasing and permitting process for geothermal developers.

WHY IT MATTERS:

Geothermal energy provides clean, firm baseload power, but outdated leasing and permitting timelines have slowed development, especially on federal lands where nearly 90% of U.S. geothermal resources are located. Missed or delayed lease sales combined with permitting delays can extend project timelines well beyond those for other energy sources. By requiring consistent lease offerings and setting enforceable permitting deadlines, the CLEAN Act unlocks significant geothermal potential and helps meet rising energy demand with domestic, carbon-free resources.

The bill strengthens U.S. energy security, supports rural economies like those in Idaho, and aligns with broader goals to reduce dependence on foreign energy while expanding renewable capacity. Industry leaders such as Fervo Energy have endorsed the measure as essential to scaling next-generation geothermal projects.

WHAT'S NEXT:

The House Natural Resources Committee will consider the bill. Congress may consider energy leasing provisions in a reconciliation package as well.

ORIGINAL SPONSOR:

Rep. Russ Fulcher (R-ID)

COSPONSOR:

Rep. Celeste Maloy (R-UT), Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO), Rep. Susie Lee (D-NV)

SUPPORT:

ClearPath Action, Fervo Energy, Eavor, Geothermal Rising

CONGRESS.GOV LINK:

H.R. 1687

PRINTABLE SUMMARY:

Printable summary of H.R. 1687