Geothermal Energy Optimization Act
The Geothermal Energy Optimization Act (S 3954) streamlines small-scale geothermal exploration on federal lands by creating a new "geothermal observation test project" category. It allows leaseholders to conduct limited, temporary exploration drilling (under 10 acres disturbance, under 120 days, with temporary infrastructure) without full environmental reviews, using a categorical exclusion process. The bill also establishes a Geothermal Ombudsman and Strike Team within the Bureau of Land Management to improve permitting efficiency, resolve disputes, and develop best practices for geothermal leasing. These changes directly affect geothermal leaseholders and federal agencies managing land use, aiming to accelerate development while maintaining environmental safeguards.
Bill status
in committee
1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Mar 2024
Committee Review
Floor Vote
President
Introduced Mar 14, 2024
Last action Mar 14, 2024
Floor votes
How they voted
No floor votes recorded yet.
Full legislative history
Actions timeline
Total actions
2
Key actions
0
Committee
1
Mar 14, 2024
Committee
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
upper
Mar 14, 2024
Introduced
Introduced in Senate
upper
1 primary · 4 co-sponsors
Sponsors
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