Ada Reporter

The House of Representatives has passed the Committing Leases for Energy Access Now Act (CLEAN), which aims to amend the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970. The new legislation mandates that the Department of Interior (DOI) hold lease sales annually instead of biennially. This change is intended to enhance geothermal energy production by increasing the frequency of lease opportunities.

The bill also proposes to expedite the permit process by imposing a 30-day deadline for the DOI to inform applicants about permit approvals. Furthermore, it requires a replacement sale if any scheduled lease sale is canceled or missed.

Representative Russ Fulcher, R-Idaho, who introduced the bill, emphasized its significance: "Geothermal energy has tremendous potential to provide reliable, clean energy for millions of Americans." He added that since nearly 90% of geothermal resources are on federally managed lands, this legislation is crucial for unlocking these resources by reducing bureaucratic hurdles and expanding leasing options on federal lands.

"This legislation will hold the Department of Interior accountable and is key to bolstering domestic energy production, reducing our reliance on foreign adversaries and meeting America’s growing energy demands," Rep. Fulcher stated.