NE Wyoming News

On November 19, 2024, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R.1449, known as the Committing Leases for Energy Access Now Act (CLEAN Act). The bill mandates the Department of the Interior to enhance lease sales under the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 and sets deadlines for considering geothermal drilling permits. The legislation was approved with a bipartisan vote of 244-171.

Congressional Western Caucus Chairman Dan Newhouse expressed his satisfaction with the bill's passage. “Geothermal is an important component of our all-of-the-above energy strategy,” said Newhouse. He commended Congressman Russ Fulcher for his leadership on this issue and emphasized that the CLEAN Act would help unlock geothermal potential and increase energy production on federal lands in the west.

Rep. Russ Fulcher highlighted geothermal energy's potential to provide clean and reliable energy to millions in America. "As nearly 90% of our nation's geothermal resources are located on federally managed lands, I introduced the CLEAN Act to unleash these critical resources by cutting red tape and increasing lease opportunities on federal lands," said Fulcher. He added that this legislation is essential for enhancing domestic energy production, reducing reliance on foreign sources, and meeting America's growing energy needs.

The full text of the bill is available online.

For further information, contact Eli Mansour at (202) 510-8612.