Bill > S4975

This bill, known as the HEATS Act, aims to streamline geothermal energy development by amending the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970. Key provisions include waiving the requirement for a Federal drilling permit for geothermal exploration and production activities when the United States owns less than 50 percent of the subsurface geothermal estate and the operator has obtained a State permit. Furthermore, these activities will be exempt from certain environmental review requirements under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA), which mandates federal agencies to consider the environmental impact of proposed actions, and will also be excluded from the consultation requirements of Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, which ensures federal agencies consult with the Fish and Wildlife Service to protect endangered species. The bill also clarifies that these provisions do not affect royalty payments owed to the United States and allows for onsite reviews to ensure proper accountability, with exceptions for activities on Indian lands.