GEO Act

Faster geothermal permits for developers

If enacted, the bill would require the Secretary to approve or deny geothermal leasing and permit applications within 60 days after all required federal reviews are finished, such as reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act and the Endangered Species Act. The 60-day clock would apply to drilling permits, sundry notices, notices to proceed, rights-of-way, and other authorizations under valid federal geothermal leases. The rule would apply even if there is a pending civil action, unless a federal court vacates the lease or issues an injunction for the lease or authorization. The bill would define "authorization" broadly to include any license, permit, approval, finding, determination, administrative decision, or interagency consultation needed to site, construct, reconstruct, or start a federally administered geothermal project.