Next-Generation Geothermal Research and Development Act
Latest action (30 Sep 2026): Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Ordered to be reported without amendment favorably.
What this bill does
This bill, known as the Next-Generation Geothermal Research and Development Act, aims to advance research and development for advanced geothermal energy systems. It would define and support "next-generation geothermal systems," which include enhanced and closed-loop systems, particularly those operating under "supercritical conditions" (high temperatures and pressures deep underground). The bill also seeks to improve data collection and sharing related to geothermal resources from various energy and mining operations.
The legislation would affect the Department of Energy, tasking it with establishing and managing research programs, including milestone-based grants for supercritical geothermal projects. It would also direct the U.S. Geological Survey to conduct updated assessments of geothermal resources, including these next-generation systems. The bill intends to foster collaboration and workforce development within the geothermal industry and requires a report on the water usage of these systems.
S. 4406 was introduced in the Senate and has been ordered to be reported favorably by the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. If it passes the Senate, it would then proceed to the House of Representatives for consideration.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Official summary
The committees assigned to this bill sent it to the House or Senate as a whole for consideration on September 30, 2026.
Timeline
30 Sep 2026
Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Ordered to be reported without amendment favorably.
Common questions
- What does S. 4406 do?
- This bill, known as the Next-Generation Geothermal Research and Development Act, aims to advance research and development for advanced geothermal energy systems. It would define and support "next-generation geothermal systems," which include enhanced and closed-loop systems, particularly those operating under "supercritical conditions" (high temperatures and pressures deep underground). The bill also seeks to improve data collection and sharing related to geothermal resources from various energy and mining operations. The legislation would affect the Department of Energy, tasking it with establishing and managing research programs, including milestone-based grants for supercritical geothermal projects. It would also direct the U.S. Geological Survey to conduct updated assessments of geothermal resources, including these next-generation systems. The bill intends to foster collaboration and workforce development within the geothermal industry and requires a report on the water usage of these systems. S. 4406 was introduced in the Senate and has been ordered to be reported favorably by the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. If it passes the Senate, it would then proceed to the House of Representatives for consideration.
- Has S. 4406 become law?
- Not yet. As of 30 Sep 2026, S. 4406 is ordered reported.
- Who sponsored S. 4406?
- S. 4406 was sponsored by Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto [D-NV] (Democrat-NV), with 0 cosponsors.
- What's the latest action on S. 4406?
- Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Ordered to be reported without amendment favorably. (30 Sep 2026).
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