Geothermal Energy Drilling Permit Bill Passed by House Lawmakers

April 23, 2026, 2:43 PM UTC

The House Thursday passed a bill in a 231-186 vote that would allow geothermal energy projects to move forward without an Interior Department drilling permit.

Known as the Harnessing Energy at Thermal Sources Act, the bill (H.R. 5587) waives federal permitting requirements for geothermal operations not on federal land if the project receives a state permit.

Read More: BGOV Bill Analysis on H.R. 5587

Geothermal energy harnesses heat from the earth to produce electricity and is generally supported by both Republicans and Democrats. The bill is sponsored by Rep. Young Kim ...

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