Bill > HB3778

This bill modifies Texas utility laws to specifically classify geothermal energy generation facilities as dispatchable resources, which means their electricity output can be controlled primarily by human intervention. The bill amends several sections of the Utilities Code to create new provisions for geothermal energy facilities in the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) power region. Specifically, it allows the commission to provide loans and grants for the construction of geothermal energy generation facilities and conservation wells with a generation capacity of at least 10 megawatts, which is lower than the previous 100-megawatt threshold for other types of generation facilities. The bill also updates definitions across multiple sections to explicitly state that geothermal energy facilities are considered dispatchable resources, which could potentially make them more attractive for investment and integration into the state's power grid. These changes aim to support the development of geothermal energy as a flexible and controllable renewable energy source in Texas. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, giving stakeholders time to prepare for the new regulations.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3778