Directs the Department of Energy to create a milestone-based program that funds next-generation geothermal electricity projects in low-permeability and impermeable rock formations, with priority for regions that have little or no geothermal power today.

• Requires the Department of Energy to establish the Milestone-Based Geothermal Demonstration Program within 180 days after enactment, using a competitive process tied to technical and financial milestones.
• Prioritizes projects in regions with limited or no geothermal electricity, including on or near Indian land, and projects that can produce at least 30 megawatts or advance drilling innovations that make that scale viable.
• Requires awards to at least three proposals in at least three states and to at least three different project sponsors, and requires the department to keep enough staff to run the program.
• Amends Section 615 of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 to add the program and authorizes appropriations of such sums as are necessary.

• Energy and Natural Resources Committee (Senate)

Energy