House Passes Bipartisan Geothermal Energy Bills

The House of Representatives has passed two significant bipartisan bills aimed at boosting geothermal energy production. The 'Committing Leases for Energy Access Now Act' (CLEAN Act), introduced by Rep. Russ Fulcher (R-Idaho), mandates annual federal geothermal lease sales and accelerates the permitting process, which has garnered support from both Republicans and Democrats. This act complements the recent passage of the 'Harnessing Energy at Thermal Sources Act' (HEATS Act), which exempts certain geothermal projects on state and private lands from federal drilling permit requirements. Both pieces of legislation are designed to enhance geothermal development, reduce reliance on foreign energy sources, and support clean energy initiatives amid growing energy demands. Lawmakers, including Fulcher and Rep. Young Kim (R-Calif.), emphasize the potential of geothermal energy to contribute to a reliable and eco-friendly energy supply for millions of Americans. The CLEAN Act and HEATS Act now head to the Senate for further consideration.