The Geothermal Energy Opportunity Act
(H.R. 301)
(H.R. 301)
H.R. 301, the Geothermal Energy Opportunity Act (GEO Act), aims to expedite the federal permitting process for geothermal energy projects by requiring agencies to approve or deny applications within 60 days after completing all necessary legal and regulatory reviews. The bill specifically prevents administrative delays due to pending lawsuits, ensuring that geothermal drilling permits, right-of-way requests, sundry notices, and other necessary authorizations continue to be processed unless a federal court issues an injunction or vacates the lease or permit. The bill also clarifies that it does not expand or limit federal courts' authority to halt projects but rather ensures that lawsuits alone do not create unnecessary bureaucratic bottlenecks.
Geothermal energy is a reliable, carbon-free power source that can provide 24/7 baseload electricity. However, federal permitting delays - often lasting over four years - have hindered its growth. Compared to oil and gas projects, geothermal leasing and drilling approvals take significantly longer, even though they use similar technologies.
This reform will help accelerate the development of geothermal resources, a critical but often overlooked component of energy expansion. By removing unnecessary regulatory delays, the bill strengthens the U.S. geothermal industry and provides developers with greater certainty in project timelines. By streamlining the approval process, the GEO Act helps unlock the full potential of geothermal energy, reduces energy costs, and strengthens U.S. energy security.
Rising energy demand and the need for reliable power make advancing the GEO Act essential to keep federal project approvals on track. The House Natural Resources Committee will review the bill before potential floor consideration.
Sen. Celeste Maloy (R-UT)
Sen. Susie Lee (D-NV)
ClearPath Action