H.R. 8790: Next-Generation Geothermal Research and Development Act

The Next-Generation Geothermal Research and Development Act aims to enhance the research, development, demonstration, and commercial application of geothermal energy. This bill amends the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 to focus specifically on advanced geothermal technologies, including closed-loop geothermal systems and next-generation geothermal systems, which utilize enhanced methods for extracting geothermal energy, especially in supercritical conditions. Here are the main aspects of what the bill entails:

Definitions

• Closed-loop geothermal systems: These systems involve a network of wellbores with fluid heated by contact with the earth.
• Next-generation geothermal systems: This term encompasses enhanced geothermal systems, closed-loop systems, and other innovative geothermal technologies.
• Supercritical geothermal: This refers to energy derived from geothermal resources under extreme pressure and temperature conditions that exceed the fluid's critical point.

Research and Development Focus

The bill authorizes a comprehensive approach to geothermal energy by supporting:

• Research on various aspects of geothermal energy, including well completion and materials design.
• The development of advanced tools, including machine learning algorithms, to improve geothermal drilling practices.
• Funding for next-generation geothermal centers and collaboration with educational and private sector entities.

Data Sharing and Accessibility

It emphasizes the importance of data by requiring:

• The creation of a public repository for geothermal data, which will include subsurface data collected from energy and mining operations.
• Regular updates and standardization of this data to enhance usability for researchers and developers in the field.

Grants and Funding

The bill provides for:

• Grants to institutions and companies engaged in geothermal research, especially projects that demonstrate innovation and market readiness.
• Specific focus on projects that can demonstrate the potential for commercial deployment of geothermal technologies.
• A budget authorization of $150 million for each fiscal year from 2027 to 2031, allocated for supporting geothermal research programs.

Resource Assessment and Reporting

The legislation includes provisions for:

• Regular assessments of geothermal resources in the United States, especially in regions with significant potential for supercritical systems.
• Reports on the water use associated with different geothermal systems, analyzing their efficiency compared to other energy sources.
• Periodic reports to Congress outlining the progress in geothermal research and development efforts.

Establishment of Centers of Excellence

The act proposes the creation of centers focused on next-generation geothermal systems to:

• Facilitate research and collaboration among various organizations to accelerate the development of new geothermal technologies.
• Train personnel and advance educational opportunities in the geothermal sector.

Innovation and Commercial Readiness

To support innovation, the bill outlines:

• Grants aimed at advancing technologies that improve the performance of commercial geothermal projects, especially for closed-loop systems and enhanced geothermal systems.
• Encouragement for projects that focus on diverse geological conditions, ensuring a broader applicability of geothermal technology.

Relevant Companies

None found.