South OC Times

The House of Representatives has passed the Harnessing Energy At Thermal Sources (HEATS) Act, also known as H.R. 7409. This bipartisan bill, led by U.S. Representative Young Kim from California's 40th district, aims to streamline geothermal energy development and production in an effort to lower energy costs.

Geothermal energy is recognized as a clean source that can generate electricity, heat homes, and power industrial processes. The bill is cosponsored by Representatives John Duarte from California's 13th district and Mary Peltola from Alaska's at-large district.

Representative Kim emphasized the importance of expanding clean energy sources like geothermal energy on the House floor. "By expanding our energy supply with clean sources like geothermal energy, we not only promote American energy independence but also lower energy costs, protect our national security, and reduce emissions," said Rep. Kim. She expressed gratitude for her colleagues' support of the HEATS Act, which she believes will benefit the economy, security, and environment.

Representative Duarte highlighted the financial strain on families due to current policies: "Valley families are paying too much for gas and groceries because of the anti-energy policies coming out of Washington and Sacramento." He expressed pride in the bipartisan support for the HEATS Act as it promotes affordable energy production within the United States while creating jobs.

In Alaska, Representative Peltola noted her state's understanding of balancing energy needs with cost reduction: "I’m proud to support this bill and its commitment to new solutions that strengthen energy security and bring costs down."

The HEATS Act seeks to expedite geothermal production by eliminating federal drilling permit requirements for wells located on state or private lands where less than half of the subsurface geothermal estate is federally owned. However, operators must still comply with state permitting regulations.

The Citizens’ Climate Lobby supports this legislation.