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Bill would fund next-generation geothermal research at $5 million a year through 2031

In markupS. 4406Latest action

Sponsor: Catherine Cortez Masto · Senator · NV

AIDecoded by AI · checked against the record
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Official title: Next-Generation Geothermal Research and Development Act

119th Congress

Topics: Environment & energy

Introduced:

Read the official bill on Congress.gov

In plain words

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The bill would create a Department of Energy geothermal research program and authorize $5 million a year from 2027 through 2031.

65-second read · 5 questions answered below

What does this do?

The bill would expand federal research into next-generation geothermal energy, including enhanced, closed-loop, and supercritical systems that could work in more places than traditional geothermal. The Department of Energy would run a new research program with grants, a center of excellence, and at least one federal test site able to try supercritical technology within a year. The Interior Department would arrange a few boreholes deeper than 8 kilometers, and the U.S. Geological Survey would update national resource estimates.

Who does it affect?

Researchers, geothermal and drilling companies, and universities that could receive grants. Communities in the western U.S. and Alaska, where geothermal resources are most common, could also be affected.

Why does it matter?

Next-generation methods could allow geothermal energy to be developed in places where hot water or steam is not near the surface. The bill also requires a report to Congress on water use and on barriers to commercial construction, plus a public database of underground data.

What does it cost, and who pays?

  • $5 million a year, 2027-2031
  • Other sums as necessary through 2031
  • Grantees pay at least 20% of costs

AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.

Based on the “Introduced in Senate” text of Apr 28, 2026.

Read the official bill on Congress.gov

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Where does it stand?

  1. IntroducedApr 28, 2026
  2. Senate committeeYou are here · Sep 30, 2026
  3. Senate vote
  4. House
  5. The president's desk

Right now: a Senate committee is reviewing it. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the president.

Latest action: — Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Ordered to be reported without amendment favorably.

Data as of October 9, 2026
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