STEAM Act

Bill 119 HR 1077, also known as the "Geothermal Development Act of 2021," aims to amend the Energy Policy Act of 2005 in order to speed up the process of exploring and developing geothermal energy resources in areas that have already been studied or developed in the past.

The bill seeks to streamline the permitting process for geothermal projects in these areas, making it easier for companies to obtain the necessary approvals to move forward with their exploration and development activities. By doing so, the bill aims to encourage more investment in geothermal energy and help to expand the use of this clean and renewable energy source.

Supporters of the bill argue that geothermal energy has the potential to play a significant role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change. By making it easier for companies to develop geothermal projects in previously studied or developed areas, the bill could help to unlock the full potential of this important energy source. Critics of the bill, however, raise concerns about the potential environmental impacts of expedited geothermal development. They argue that speeding up the permitting process could lead to inadequate environmental assessments and oversight, potentially putting local ecosystems and communities at risk. Overall, Bill 119 HR 1077 represents an effort to promote the development of geothermal energy resources in the United States. Its impact on the environment and local communities will depend on how effectively it balances the need for expedited development with the need for proper environmental protections.