[House Report 119-752]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
119th Congress } { Rept. 119-752
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
2d Session } { Part 1
=======================================================================
NEXT-GENERATION GEOTHERMAL RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ACT
----------------
July 16, 2026.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the
State of the Union and ordered to be printed
----------------
Mr. Babin, from the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology,
submitted the following
R E P O R T
[To accompany H.R. 8790]
The Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, to whom
was referred the bill (H.R. 8790) to amend the Energy
Independence and Security Act of 2007 to direct research,
development, demonstration, and commercial application
activities in support of next-generation geothermal and closed-
loop geothermal systems in various conditions, and for other
purposes, having considered the same, reports favorably thereon
with an amendment and recommends that the bill as amended do
pass.
CONTENTS
Page
Purpose and Summary.............................................. 6
Background and Need for Legislation.............................. 6
Legislative History.............................................. 6
Section-by-Section............................................... 6
Related Committee Hearings....................................... 7
Committee Consideration.......................................... 7
Application of Law to the Legislative Branch..................... 8
Statement of Oversight Findings and Recommendations of the
Committee...................................................... 8
Statement of General Performance Goals and Objectives............ 8
Duplication of Federal Programs.................................. 8
Federal Advisory Committee Act................................... 8
Unfunded Mandate Statement....................................... 8
Earmark Identification........................................... 8
Committee Cost Estimate.......................................... 8
New Budget Authority, Entitlement Authority, and Tax Expenditures 9
Congressional Budget Office Cost Estimate........................ 9
Committee Correspondence......................................... 10
Changes to Existing Law Made by the Bill, as Reported............ 13
The amendment is as follows:
Strike all that follows after the enacting clause and insert
the following:
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Next-Generation Geothermal Research
and Development Act''.
SEC. 2. GEOTHERMAL ENERGY.
(a) In General.--The Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007
(Public Law 110-140) is amended--
(1) in section 612 (42 U.S.C. 17191; relating to
definitions)--
(A) by redesignating paragraphs (1), (2), (3), (4),
(5), (6), (7), and (8) as paragraphs (2), (3), (4),
(5), (6), (7), (8), and (11), respectively;
(B) by inserting before paragraph (2), as so
redesignated, the following new paragraph:
``(1) Closed-loop geothermal systems.--The term `closed-loop
geothermal systems' means a wellbore or subsurface circuit of
wellbores containing a fluid heated through contact with the
borehole wall.''; and
(C) by inserting after paragraph (8), as so
redesignated, the following new paragraphs:
``(9) Next-generation geothermal systems.--The term `next-
generation geothermal systems' means--
``(A) enhanced geothermal systems;
``(B) closed-loop geothermal systems;
``(C) in supercritical conditions--
``(i) enhanced geothermal systems; or
``(ii) closed-loop geothermal systems; and
``(D) other innovative energy technologies.
``(10) Supercritical geothermal.--The term `supercritical
geothermal' means energy derived from a subsurface rock
resource in-situ existing at or above the supercritical
conditions, whether relating to temperature or pressure, of the
primary fluid present.'';
(2) in section 613(b)(1) (42 U.S.C. 17192(b)(1); relating to
hydrothermal research and development), by striking ``advanced
geologic tools to assist'' and inserting ``advanced tools,
including machine learning algorithms, to assist'';
(3) in section 614 (42 U.S.C. 17193; relating to general
geothermal systems research and development)--
(A) in subsection (d)(1), by striking ``among the
Office of Fossil Energy, the Office of Energy
Efficiency and Renewable Energy,'' and inserting
``across the Department''; and
(B) in subsection (h)--
(i) in paragraph (1), by inserting ``and
publicly available subsurface data, including
data reported as part of fossil fuel and mining
operations,'' after ``geothermal drilling
information''; and
(ii) in paragraph (2), by adding at the end
the following new subparagraphs:
``(C) Updates.--The repository established under
paragraph (1) shall be periodically updated in order to
carry out the following:
``(i) Standardize data in a uniform manner to
the maximum extent practicable and enable
analysis across different projects.
``(ii) Enhance the accessibility and
usability of data to increase analysis of
geothermal energy and next-generation
geothermal systems on regional, local, and
site-specific scales.
``(iii) Increase uses of data, including data
viewable by map and organization by common
attributes, such as region.
``(iv) Make other improvements in
functionality and usability, as determined by
the Secretary.
``(D) Memorandum of understanding.--
``(i) In general.--The Secretary shall enter
into a memorandum of understanding with the
Secretary of the Interior, and with the heads
of other relevant Federal departments, for
notifying, sharing, and providing opportunities
for additional data collection regarding shared
geothermal development data from projects
funded by the Department of the Interior and
each such other relevant department, including
data from mining, critical minerals, and energy
projects, such as subsurface heat data, seismic
data, lithology data, boundaries of State and
federally protected areas, and existing
transmission capacity.
``(ii) Prioritization.--To the maximum extent
practicable, activities conducted pursuant to a
memorandum of understanding under clause (i)
shall prioritize heat, lithology, and strain
profiles through deep exploration boreholes and
control points for deep heat mapping and
geothermal development.
``(E) Regional data probes.--The Secretary of the
Interior may, in consultation with the Secretary,
commission the drilling of supercritical geothermal
exploration boreholes in representative geological
provinces in the United States to provide control
points for deep heat mapping and geothermal
development. The resulting data shall include an
exploration of heat, lithology, and strain profiles,
and shall be shared publicly on the repository
established under paragraph (1).
``(F) Study on site selection characteristics for
supercritical geothermal.--The Secretary of the
Interior shall, in consultation with the Secretary,
conduct a study on site selection characteristics in
representative geological provinces in the United
States, including the United States territories of
American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto
Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, for supercritical
geothermal.'';
(4) in section 615 (42 U.S.C. 17194; relating to enhanced
geothermal systems research and development)--
(A) in the section heading, by striking ``enhanced''
and inserting ``next-generation'';
(B) in subsection (a), by striking ``enhanced'' and
inserting ``next-generation'';
(C) in subsection (b)--
(i) in the heading, by inserting ``and
Closed-loop'' after ``Enhanced'';
(ii) in the matter preceding paragraph (1),
by inserting ``and closed-loop'' after
``enhanced'';
(iii) in paragraph (11), by striking ``and''
after the semicolon;
(iv) in paragraph (12), by striking the
period and inserting ``; and''; and
(v) by adding at the end the following new
paragraph:
``(13) the research topics specified in paragraphs (1)
through (12) in supercritical conditions.'';
(D) in subsection (c)--
(i) by redesignating paragraph (7) as
paragraph (8); and
(ii) by inserting after paragraph (6) the
following new paragraph:
``(7) Next-generation geothermal testing.--Not later than one
year after the date of the enactment of this paragraph, the
Secretary shall take such actions as may be necessary to ensure
that at least one FORGE site has the capabilities to include
next-generation geothermal testing, including in supercritical
conditions.''; and
(E) by adding at the end the following new
subsections:
``(e) Next-generation Geothermal Research and Development Program.--
``(1) In general.--Within the Geothermal Technologies Office
of the Department, the Secretary shall support a program of
next-generation geothermal research, development,
demonstration, and commercial application activities, including
in supercritical conditions.
``(2) Focus areas.--
``(A) In general.--The program described in paragraph
(1) shall focus on the following topics:
``(i) Well completion.
``(ii) Permeability creation and management,
including proppants and packers.
``(iii) Materials development and equipment
design, including power production, specific to
supercritical geothermal systems.
``(iv) Sensor development.
``(v) Water-rock geochemistry.
``(vi) Rock properties.
``(vii) Hard rock and deep drilling.
``(viii) Any other topics the Secretary
determines necessary.
``(B) Prioritization.--In carrying out next-
generation geothermal research under the program
described in paragraph (1), the Secretary shall
prioritize projects best able to produce iterative data
for deep drilling projects in unique geodynamic
settings on the following topics:
``(i) Characterization and crustal stress.
``(ii) Lab work.
``(iii) Drilling.
``(iv) Stimulation.
``(v) Power production.
``(C) Administration.--The Secretary may administer
grants to institutions of higher education and private
sector entities to carry out activities on the topics
specified in subparagraph (A) and, to the maximum
extent practicable, share data, results, and
information publicly.
``(3) Report on water use.--Not later than five years after
the date of the enactment of this subsection, the Secretary
shall submit to the Committee on Natural Resources and the
Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural
Resources of the Senate a report on the following:
``(A) Water use and estimated needs of enhanced
geothermal systems.
``(B) Water use and estimated needs for closed-loop,
and next-generation geothermal energy production.
``(C) The ability of next-generation geothermal
systems to use brackish and nonpotable water.
``(D) The withdrawal and consumption of water per
megawatt hour of next-generation geothermal systems, as
compared to other power-generation technologies.
``(E) Technological and operational improvements that
could lead to decreases in water withdrawal and
consumption of next-generation geothermal systems.
``(4) Next-generation geothermal center of excellence.--
``(A) Establishment.--The Secretary shall award
grants through a competitive, merit-reviewed process,
to National Laboratories (as such term is defined in
section 2 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C.
15801)), multi-institutional collaborations, public-
private partnerships, or institutes of higher education
(or consortia thereof) for the following:
``(i) The continuation and expansion of
research, development, demonstration, testing,
and commercial application activities
applicable to FORGE sites, including activities
in supercritical conditions.
``(ii) The establishment of a next-generation
geothermal systems center of excellence.
``(B) Location.--In selecting National Laboratories,
multi-institutional collaborations, public-private
partnerships, or institutions of higher education (or a
consortia thereof) for a center of excellence referred
to in subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall consider
the following criteria:
``(i) Whether the entity hosts an existing
geothermal energy research and development
program.
``(ii) Whether the entity has proven
technical expertise to support geothermal
energy research.
``(iii) Whether the entity has access to
geothermal resources.
``(C) Purpose.--The center of excellence referred to
in subparagraph (A) shall coordinate among existing
FORGE sites, the Department, and National Laboratories
to carry out the following:
``(i) Advance research, development,
demonstration, and commercial application of
next-generation geothermal energy technologies,
including supercritical geothermal
technologies, in response to industry and
commercial needs, including by partnering with
other academic or research institutions,
industry, non-governmental organizations, and
State, local, or Tribal governments.
``(ii) Foster collaboration for education,
research, and partnership initiatives in order
to support the technology, deployment, and
workforce needs of the United States geothermal
energy industry, including a focus on next-
generation geothermal systems.
``(iii) Support workforce development across
the next-generation geothermal systems energy
development lifecycle.
``(iv) Provide educational, technical, and
analytical assistance on next-generation
geothermal systems to Federal agencies,
industry, and State, local, and Tribal
governments.
``(v) Collect and disseminate information on
best practices in all areas relating to
developing and managing geothermal energy
resources and energy systems, including next-
generation geothermal systems.
``(5) Commercial-readiness innovation grants.--
``(A) In general.--The Secretary shall award grants
to accelerate the development, testing, and
implementation of innovative technologies identified as
areas for improving the performance of commercial
geothermal energy projects using next-generation
geothermal systems.
``(B) Focus areas.--Grants may be awarded under this
paragraph for innovative technologies, including the
following:
``(i) Hardrock drilling equipment,
components, and systems, including bit design
and vibration control.
``(ii) Reservoir characterization, well
design and spacing, and completions.
``(iii) Data acquisition and analysis,
including fiber optic sensing tools and
methodologies.
``(C) Applications.--
``(i) In general.--An entity seeking a grant
under this paragraph shall submit to the
Secretary an application at such time, in such
manner, and containing such information as the
Secretary may require.
``(ii) Prioritization.--In awarding grants
under this paragraph, the Secretary shall give
priority to the following:
``(I) Applicants, including for-
profit entities and public-private
partnerships, with demonstrated
expertise relating to in-field
development and commercial operations
for geothermal energy projects.
``(II) Projects with the greatest
ability to advance near-term commercial
deployment of enhanced geothermal
systems and closed-loop geothermal
systems.
``(III) Projects that advance the
commercialization of geothermal energy
projects in diverse geological
conditions or supercritical conditions.
``(D) Cost sharing.--The Federal share of the cost of
a project carried out with a grant under this paragraph
shall be not more than 80 percent.
``(f) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be
appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $150,000,000
for each of fiscal years 2027 through 2031. Such amounts shall be
derived from amounts otherwise authorized to be appropriated to the
Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy of the Department.'';
and
(5) in section 617 (42 U.S.C. 17196; relating to organization
and administration of programs)--
(A) in subsection (e), by striking ``Committee on
Science and Technology'' and inserting ``Committee on
Science, Space, and Technology''; and
(B) by amending subsection (f) to read as follows:
``(f) Progress Reports.--Not later than one year after the date of
the enactment of this subsection and every two years thereafter, the
Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Science, Space, and
Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy
and Natural Resources of the Senate a report that contains the
following:
``(1) A description of the maximum potential of geothermal
resources in the United States, including a consideration of
next-generation geothermal systems.
``(2) Information relating to the results of projects
undertaken under this section.
``(3) An assessment of the barriers to commercialization of
next-generation geothermal technologies.
``(4) Such other information as the Secretary considers
appropriate.''.
(b) Update to Geothermal Resource Assessment.--
(1) In general.--Section 2501 of the Energy Policy Act of
1992 (30 U.S.C. 1028) is amended--
(A) in subsection (c)--
(i) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by
inserting ``quadrennially'' before ``update'';
(ii) in paragraph (1)(D)(ii), by striking
``and'' at the end;
(iii) in paragraph (2), by striking the
period at the end and inserting ``; and''; and
(iv) by adding at the end the following new
paragraph:
``(3) to the maximum extent practicable, by assessing regions
of the United States, including the United States territories
of American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico,
and the U.S. Virgin Islands, with significant potential for
supercritical geothermal (as such term is defined in section
612 of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (42
U.S.C. 17191)).''; and
(B) by striking subsection (d).
(2) First update.--The first quadrennial update to the
geothermal resource assessment carried out by the United States
Geological Survey under subsection (c) of section 2501 of the
Energy Policy Act of 1992, as amended by paragraph (1), shall
be completed by not later than two years after the date of the
enactment of this Act.
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The table of contents in section 1(b) of the
Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 is amended by amending the
item relating to section 615 to read as follows:
``Sec. 615. Next-generation geothermal systems research and
development.''.
Purpose and Summary
H.R. 8790, the Next-Generation Geothermal Research and
Development Act, directs the Department of Energy (DOE) to
support research, development, demonstration, and commercial
application activities in support of next-generation geothermal
technologies, including enhanced geothermal, supercritical
geothermal, and closed-loop geothermal systems.
Background and Need for Legislation
Geothermal energy currently accounts for only 0.4% of the
utility-scale electricity produced in the U.S., with these
sites concentrated in the western half of the country. Recent
breakthroughs in drilling and drilling techniques have unlocked
the ability to generate electricity from geothermal energy in
areas where it was previously impossible. Furthermore, the
Department of Energy and Princeton University have both
estimated that next-generation geothermal energy could provide
90-132 gigawatts of electricity by 2050.
The DOE, through the Office of Geothermal (OG), has an
initiative with a dedicated field site called the Frontier
Observatory for Research in Geothermal Energy (FORGE). FORGE
hosts research and development activities in the enhanced
geothermal systems (EGS) space. EGS is just one of the three
types of next-generation geothermal systems; the other two are
closed-loop geothermal systems and supercritical conditions.
To date, authorizing language from the Energy Independence
and Security Act of 2007 (P.L. 110-140) and the Energy Act of
2020 (P.L. 116-260 Div. Z) have provided the most recent
legislative direction for geothermal research, development, and
demonstration (RD&D) activities at DOE. H.R. 8790 updates the
direction provided by these previous authorizations.
Legislative History
H.R. 8790 was introduced on May 13, 2026, by Rep. Harrigan
(R-NC) and cosponsored by Rep. Salinas (D-OR).
Section-by-Section
Section 1. Short title
This section establishes the short title of the legislation
as the ``Next-Generation Geothermal Research and Development
Act.''
Section 2. Geothermal energy
This section updates the definition of geothermal systems
to include the three types of next-generation geothermal
systems and expands the scope of general geothermal systems
research across the entire Department of Energy (DOE).
This section also directs DOE to enter into a memorandum of
understanding with the Department of the Interior (DOI) to
notify, share, and provide opportunities for additional data
collection regarding shared geothermal development data from
DOI projects.
Additionally, the Secretary of the Interior is required to
conduct a study on site selection for supercritical geothermal.
This section establishes the Next-Generation Geothermal
Research and Development Program and requires next-generation
geothermal testing at one or more DOE Frontier Observatory for
Research in Geothermal Energy (FORGE) sites.
This section also mandates a report on water use in next-
generation geothermal systems and directs DOE to establish the
Next-Generation Geothermal Center of Excellence for research,
development, and commercialization of next-generation
geothermal energy technologies.
In addition, the Secretary of Energy may award grants to
accelerate the development of next-generation geothermal
systems.
This section authorizes $150,000,000 for each fiscal year
2027 through 2031 from amounts appropriated to the Office of
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy and directs the
Department to submit reports on next-generation geothermal
development every other year.
Finally, this section requires supercritical geothermal
systems to be included in the Geothermal Resource Assessment.
Related Committee Hearings
Pursuant to clause 3(c)(6) of rule XIII, the following
hearing was used to develop or consider H.R. 8790.
On April 16, 2026, the Subcommittee on Energy held a
hearing entitled Subsurface Science and Technology: American
Energy and Mineral Dominance.
Witnesses:
Mr. Carlos Araque, President and Chief
Executive Officer, Quaise Energy
Dr. Elizabeth Holley, Professor, Mining
Engineering, Colorado School of Mines
Dr. Thomas A. Lograsso, Director, Critical
Materials Innovation Hub, Ames National Laboratory
Mr. Joel Edwards, Co-Founder and Chief
Technology Officer, Zanskar Geothermal & Minerals
Committee Consideration
On May 20, 2026, the Committee on Science, Space, and
Technology met to consider H.R. 8790.
Rep. Harrigan offered an amendment to direct DOE to include
supercritical geothermal conditions within its FORGE Sites and
research and development programs. The amendment was adopted by
voice vote.
Rep. Van Epps offered an amendment to prioritize geothermal
projects intending to power high-load-factor facilities. The
amendment was withdrawn.
Chairman Babin moved that the Committee favorably report
the bill, H.R. 8790, as amended, to the House of
Representatives with the recommendation that the bill be
approved. The motion was agreed to by voice vote.
Application of Law to the Legislative Branch
The Committee finds that H.R. 8790 does not relate to the
terms and conditions of employment or access to public services
or accommodations within the meaning of section 102(b)(3) of
the Congressional Accountability Act (Public Law 104-1).
Statement of Oversight Findings and Recommendations of the Committee
In compliance with clause 3(c)(1) of rule XIII and clause
(2)(b)(1) of rule X, the Committee's oversight findings and
recommendations are reflected in the descriptive portions of
this report.
Statement of General Performance Goals and Objectives
Pursuant to clause (3)(c)(4) of rule XIII, the goal of H.R.
8790 is to direct research, development, demonstration, and
commercial application activities in support of next-generation
geothermal and closed-loop geothermal systems in various
conditions.
Duplication of Federal Programs
Pursuant to clause 3(c)(5) of rule XIII, the Committee
finds that no provision of H.R. 8790 establishes or
reauthorizes a program of the Federal Government known to be
duplicative of another Federal program, including any program
that was included in a report to Congress pursuant to section
21 of Public Law 111-139 or identified in the most recent
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance.
Federal Advisory Committee Act
The Committee finds that the legislation does not establish
or authorize the establishment of an advisory committee within
the definition of section 5(b) of the Federal Advisory
Committee Act.
Unfunded Mandate Statement
The Committee adopts as its own the estimate of Federal
mandates prepared by the Director of the Congressional Budget
Office pursuant to section 423 of the Unfunded Mandates Reform
Act.
Earmark Identification
Pursuant to clauses 9(e), 9(f), and 9(g) of rule XXI, the
Committee finds that H.R. 8790 does not include any
congressional earmarks, limited tax benefits, or limited tariff
benefits.
Committee Cost Estimate
Pursuant to clause 3(d)(1) of rule XIII, the Committee
adopts as its own the cost estimate prepared by the Director of
the Congressional Budget Office pursuant to section 402 of the
Congressional Budget Act of 1974. At the time this report was
filed, the estimate was not yet available.
New Budget Authority, Entitlement Authority,
and Tax Expenditures
Pursuant to clause 3(c)(2) of rule XIII, the Committee
finds that H.R. 8790 would result in no new or increased budget
authority, entitlement authority, or tax expenditures or
revenues.
Congressional Budget Office Cost Estimate
Pursuant to clause 3(c)(3) of rule XIII, at the time this
report was filed, the cost estimate prepared by the Director of
the Congressional Budget Office pursuant to section 402 of the
Congressional Budget Act of 1974 was not yet available.
[GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
Changes in Existing Law Made by the Bill, as Reported
In compliance with clause 3(e) of rule XIII of the Rules of
the House of Representatives, changes in existing law made by
the bill, as reported, are shown as follows (existing law
proposed to be omitted is enclosed in black brackets, new
matter is printed in italics, and existing law in which no
change is proposed is shown in roman):
ENERGY INDEPENDENCE AND SECURITY ACT OF 2007
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Energy
Independence and Security Act of 2007''.
(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents of this Act is
as follows:
Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
* * * * * * *
TITLE VI--ACCELERATED RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
* * * * * * *
Subtitle B--Geothermal Energy
* * * * * * *
[Sec. 615. Enhanced geothermal systems research and development.]
Sec. 615. Next-generation geothermal systems research and development.
* * * * * * *
TITLE VI--ACCELERATED RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
* * * * * * *
Subtitle B--Geothermal Energy
* * * * * * *
SEC. 612. DEFINITIONS.
For purposes of this subtitle:
(1) Closed-loop geothermal systems.--The term
``closed-loop geothermal systems'' means a wellbore or
subsurface circuit of wellbores containing a fluid
heated through contact with the borehole wall.
[(1)] (2) Engineered.--When referring to enhanced
geothermal systems, the term ``engineered'' means
designed to access subsurface heat, including
stimulation and nonstimulation technologies to address
one or more of the following issues:
(A) Lack of effective permeability, porosity
or open fracture connectivity within the heat
reservoir.
(B) Insufficient contained geofluid in the
heat reservoir.
(C) A low average geothermal gradient which
necessitates deeper drilling, or the use of
alternative heat sources or heat generation
processes.
[(2)] (3) Eligible entity.--The term ``eligible
entity'' means any of the following entities:
(A) An institution of higher education.
(B) A National laboratory.
(C) A Federal research agency.
(D) A State research agency.
(E) A nonprofit research organization.
(F) An industrial entity.
(G) A consortium of 2 or more entities
described in subparagraphs (A) through (F).
[(3)] (4) Enhanced geothermal systems.--The term
``enhanced geothermal systems'' means geothermal
reservoir systems that are engineered, as opposed to
occurring naturally.
[(4)] (5) Geofluid.--The term ``geofluid'' means any
fluid used to extract thermal energy from the Earth
which is transported to the surface for direct use or
electric power generation, except that such term shall
not include oil or natural gas.
[(5)] (6) Geopressured resources.--The term
``geopressured resources'' mean geothermal deposits
found in sedimentary rocks under higher than normal
pressure and saturated with gas or methane.
[(6)] (7) Geothermal.--The term ``geothermal'' refers
to heat energy stored in the Earth's crust that can be
accessed for direct use or electric power generation.
[(7)] (8) Hydrothermal.--The term ``hydrothermal''
refers to naturally occurring subsurface reservoirs of
hot water or steam.
(9) Next-generation geothermal systems.--The term
``next-generation geothermal systems'' means--
(A) enhanced geothermal systems;
(B) closed-loop geothermal systems;
(C) in supercritical conditions--
(i) enhanced geothermal systems; or
(ii) closed-loop geothermal systems;
and
(D) other innovative energy technologies.
(10) Supercritical geothermal.--The term
``supercritical geothermal'' means energy derived from
a subsurface rock resource in-situ existing at or above
the supercritical conditions, whether relating to
temperature or pressure, of the primary fluid present.
[(8)] (11) Systems approach.--The term ``systems
approach'' means an approach to solving problems or
designing systems that attempts to optimize the
performance of the overall system, rather than a
particular component of the system.
SEC. 613. HYDROTHERMAL RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.
(a) In General.--The Secretary shall carry out a program of
research, development, demonstration, and commercial
application for geothermal energy production from hydrothermal
systems.
(b) Programs.--The program authorized in subsection (a) shall
include the following:
(1) Advanced hydrothermal resource tools.--The
research and development of [advanced geologic tools to
assist] advanced tools, including machine learning
algorithms, to assist in locating hydrothermal
resources, and to increase the reliability of site
characterization, including the development of new
imaging and sensing technologies and techniques to
assist in prioritization of targets for
characterization;
(2) Exploratory drilling for geothermal resources.--
The demonstration of advanced technologies and
techniques of siting and exploratory drilling for
undiscovered resources in a variety of geologic
settings, carried out in collaboration with industry
partners that will assist in the acquisition of high
quality data sets relevant for hydrothermal subsurface
characterization activities.
SEC. 614. GENERAL GEOTHERMAL SYSTEMS RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.
(a) Subsurface Components and Systems.--The Secretary shall
support a program of research, development, demonstration, and
commercial application of components and systems capable of
withstanding geothermal environments and necessary to develop,
produce, and monitor geothermal reservoirs and produce
geothermal energy.
(b) Environmental Impacts.--The Secretary shall--
(1) support a program of research, development,
demonstration, and commercial application of
technologies and practices designed to mitigate or
preclude potential adverse environmental impacts of
geothermal energy development, production or use;
(2) support a research program to identify potential
environmental impacts, including induced seismicity,
and environmental benefits of geothermal energy
development, production, and use, and ensure that the
program described in paragraph (1) addresses such
impacts, including water use and effects on groundwater
and local hydrology;
(3) support a program of research to compare the
potential environmental impacts and environmental
benefits identified as part of the development,
production, and use of geothermal energy with the
potential emission reductions of greenhouse gases
gained by geothermal energy development, production,
and use; and
(4) in carrying out this section, the Secretary
shall, to the maximum extent practicable, consult with
relevant federal agencies, including the Environmental
Protection Agency.
(c) Reservoir Thermal Energy Storage.--The Secretary shall
support a program of research, development, and demonstration
of reservoir thermal energy storage, emphasizing cost-effective
improvements through deep direct use engineering, design, and
systems research.
(d) Oil and Gas Technology Transfer Initiative.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall support an
initiative [among the Office of Fossil Energy, the
Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy,]
across the Department and the private sector to
research, develop, and demonstrate relevant advanced
technologies and operation techniques used in the oil
and gas sector for use in geothermal energy
development.
(2) Priorities.--In carrying out paragraph (1), the
Secretary shall prioritize technologies with the
greatest potential to significantly increase the use
and lower the cost of geothermal energy in the United
States, including the cost and speed of geothermal
drilling surface technologies, large- and small-scale
drilling, and well construction.
(e) Coproduction of Geothermal Energy and Minerals Production
Research and Development Initiative.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall carry out a
research and development initiative under which the
Secretary shall provide financial assistance to
demonstrate the coproduction of critical minerals from
geothermal resources.
(2) Requirements.--An award made under paragraph (1)
shall--
(A) improve the cost effectiveness of
removing minerals from geothermal brines as
part of the coproduction process;
(B) increase recovery rates of the targeted
mineral commodity;
(C) decrease water use and other
environmental impacts, as determined by the
Secretary; and
(D) demonstrate a path to commercial
viability.
(f) Flexible Operations.--The Secretary shall support a
research initiative on flexible operation of geothermal power
plants.
(g) Integrated Energy Systems.--The Secretary shall identify
opportunities for joint research, development, and
demonstration programs between geothermal systems and other
energy generation or storage systems.
(h) Drilling Data Repository.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall, in consultation
with the Secretary of the Interior, establish and
operate a voluntary, industry-wide repository of
geothermal drilling information and publicly available
subsurface data, including data reported as part of
fossil fuel and mining operations, to lower the cost of
future geothermal drilling.
(2) Repository.--
(A) In general.--In carrying out paragraph
(1), the Secretary shall collaborate with
countries utilizing a significant amount of
geothermal energy, as determined by the
Secretary.
(B) Data system.--The repository established
under paragraph (1) shall be integrated with
the National Geothermal Data System.
(C) Updates.--The repository established
under paragraph (1) shall be periodically
updated in order to carry out the following:
(i) Standardize data in a uniform
manner to the maximum extent
practicable and enable analysis across
different projects.
(ii) Enhance the accessibility and
usability of data to increase analysis
of geothermal energy and next-
generation geothermal systems on
regional, local, and site-specific
scales.
(iii) Increase uses of data,
including data viewable by map and
organization by common attributes, such
as region.
(iv) Make other improvements in
functionality and usability, as
determined by the Secretary.
(D) Memorandum of understanding.--
(i) In general.--The Secretary shall
enter into a memorandum of
understanding with the Secretary of the
Interior, and with the heads of other
relevant Federal departments, for
notifying, sharing, and providing
opportunities for additional data
collection regarding shared geothermal
development data from projects funded
by the Department of the Interior and
each such other relevant department,
including data from mining, critical
minerals, and energy projects, such as
subsurface heat data, seismic data,
lithology data, boundaries of State and
federally protected areas, and existing
transmission capacity.
(ii) Prioritization.--To the maximum
extent practicable, activities
conducted pursuant to a memorandum of
understanding under clause (i) shall
prioritize heat, lithology, and strain
profiles through deep exploration
boreholes and control points for deep
heat mapping and geothermal
development.
(E) Regional data probes.--The Secretary of
the Interior may, in consultation with the
Secretary, commission the drilling of
supercritical geothermal exploration boreholes
in representative geological provinces in the
United States to provide control points for
deep heat mapping and geothermal development.
The resulting data shall include an exploration
of heat, lithology, and strain profiles, and
shall be shared publicly on the repository
established under paragraph (1).
(F) Study on site selection characteristics
for supercritical geothermal.--The Secretary of
the Interior shall, in consultation with the
Secretary, conduct a study on site selection
characteristics in representative geological
provinces in the United States, including the
United States territories of American Samoa,
Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico,
and the U.S. Virgin Islands, for supercritical
geothermal.
SEC. 615. [ENHANCED] NEXT-GENERATION GEOTHERMAL SYSTEMS RESEARCH AND
DEVELOPMENT.
(a) In General.--The Secretary shall support a program of
research, development, demonstration, and commercial
application for [enhanced] next-generation geothermal systems,
including the programs described in subsection (b).
(b) Enhanced And Closed-loop Geothermal Systems
Technologies.--In collaboration with industry partners,
institutions of higher education, and the national
laboratories, the Secretary shall support a program of
research, development, demonstration, and commercial
application of the technologies to achieve higher efficiency
and lower cost enhanced and closed-loop geothermal systems,
including--
(1) reservoir stimulation;
(2) drilled, non-stimulated (e.g. closed-loop)
reservoir technologies;
(3) reservoir characterization, monitoring, and
modeling and understanding of the surface area and
volume of fractures;
(4) stress and fracture mapping including real time
monitoring and modeling;
(5) tracer development;
(6) three and four-dimensional seismic imaging and
tomography;
(7) well placement and orientation;
(8) long-term reservoir management;
(9) drilling technologies, methods, and tools;
(10) improved exploration tools;
(11) zonal isolation; [and]
(12) understanding induced seismicity risks from
reservoir engineering and stimulation[.]; and
(13) the research topics specified in paragraphs (1)
through (12) in supercritical conditions.
(c) Frontier Observatory for Research in Geothermal Energy.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall support the
establishment and construction of up to 3 field
research sites, which shall each be known as a
``Frontier Observatory for Research in Geothermal
Energy'' or ``FORGE'' site to develop, test, and
enhance techniques and tools for enhanced geothermal
energy.
(2) Duties.--The Secretary shall--
(A) provide financial assistance in support
of research and development projects focused on
advanced monitoring technologies, new
technologies and approaches for implementing
multi-zone stimulations, nonstimulation
techniques, and dynamic reservoir modeling that
incorporates all available high-fidelity
characterization data; and
(B) seek opportunities to coordinate efforts
and share information with domestic and
international partners engaged in research and
development of geothermal systems and related
technology, including coordination between
FORGE sites.
(3) Site selection.--Of the FORGE sites referred to
in paragraph (1), the Secretary shall--
(A) consider applications through a
competitive, merit-reviewed process, from
National Laboratories, multi-institutional
collaborations, institutes of higher education
and other appropriate entities best suited to
provide national leadership on geothermal
related issues and perform the duties
enumerated under this subsection;
(B) prioritize existing field sites and
facilities with capabilities relevant to the
duties enumerated under this subsection;
(C) determine the mission need for and
potential location of subsequent FORGE sites
following the completion of construction and
one year of operation of two FORGE sites; and
(D) ensure geologic diversity among FORGE
sites when developing subsequent sites, to the
maximum extent practicable.
(4) Existing forge sites.--A FORGE site already in
existence on the date of enactment of this Act may
continue to receive support.
(5) Site operation.--
(A) Initial duration.--FORGE sites selected
under paragraph (3) shall operate for an
initial term of not more than 7 years after the
date on which site operation begins.
(B) Performance metrics.--The Secretary shall
establish performance metrics for each FORGE
site supported under this paragraph, which may
be used by the Secretary to determine whether a
FORGE site should continue to receive funding.
(6) Additional terms.--
(A) In general.--At the end of an operational
term described in subparagraph (B), a FORGE
site may--
(i) be transferred to other public or
private entities for further enhanced
geothermal testing; or
(ii) subject to appropriations and a
merit review by the Secretary, operate
for an additional term of not more than
7 years.
(B) Operational term described.--An
operational term referred to in subparagraph
(A)--
(i) in the case of an existing FORGE
site, is the existing operational term;
and
(ii) in the case of new FORGE sites
selected under paragraph (3), is the
initial term under paragraph (5)(A) or
an additional term under subparagraph
(A)(ii) of this paragraph.
(7) Next-generation geothermal testing.--Not later
than one year after the date of the enactment of this
paragraph, the Secretary shall take such actions as may
be necessary to ensure that at least one FORGE site has
the capabilities to include next-generation geothermal
testing, including in supercritical conditions.
[(7)] (8) Funding.--
(A) In general.--Out of funds authorized to
be appropriated under section 623, there shall
be made available to the Secretary to carry out
the FORGE activities under this paragraph--
(i) $45,000,000 for fiscal year 2021;
(ii) $55,000,000 for fiscal year
2022;
(iii) $65,000,000 for fiscal year
2023;
(iv) $70,000,000 for fiscal year
2024; and
(v) $70,000,000 for fiscal year 2025.
(B) Considerations.--In carrying out this
subsection, the Secretary shall consider the
balance between funds dedicated to construction
and operations and research activities to
reflect the state of site development.
(d) Enhanced Geothermal Systems Demonstrations.--
(1) In general.--Beginning on the date of enactment
of this section, the Secretary, in collaboration with
industry partners, institutions of higher education,
and the national laboratories, shall support an
initiative for demonstration of enhanced geothermal
systems for power production or direct use.
(2) Projects.--
(A) In general.--Under the initiative
described in paragraph (1), 4 demonstration
projects shall be carried out in locations that
are potentially commercially viable for
enhanced geothermal systems development, while
also considering environmental impacts to the
maximum extent practicable, as determined by
the Secretary.
(B) Requirements.--Demonstration projects
under subparagraph (A) shall--
(i) collectively demonstrate--
(I) different geologic
settings, such as hot
sedimentary aquifers, layered
geologic systems, supercritical
systems, and basement rock
systems; and
(II) a variety of development
techniques, including open hole
and cased hole completions,
differing well orientations,
and stimulation and
nonstimulation mechanisms; and
(ii) to the extent practicable, use
existing sites where subsurface
characterization or geothermal energy
integration analysis has been
conducted.
(C) Eastern demonstration.--Not fewer than 1
of the demonstration projects carried out under
subparagraph (A) shall be located an area east
of the Mississippi River that is suitable for
enhanced geothermal demonstration for power,
heat, or a combination of power and heat.
(D) Milestone-based demonstration projects.--
The Secretary may carry out demonstration
projects under this subsection as a milestone-
based demonstration project under section 9005
of the Energy Act of 2020.
(3) Funding.--Out of funds authorized to be
appropriated under section 623, there shall be made
available to the Secretary to carry out the
demonstration activities under this subsection
$21,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2021 through 2025.
(e) Next-generation Geothermal Research and Development
Program.--
(1) In general.--Within the Geothermal Technologies
Office of the Department, the Secretary shall support a
program of next-generation geothermal research,
development, demonstration, and commercial application
activities, including in supercritical conditions.
(2) Focus areas.--
(A) In general.--The program described in
paragraph (1) shall focus on the following
topics:
(i) Well completion.
(ii) Permeability creation and
management, including proppants and
packers.
(iii) Materials development and
equipment design, including power
production, specific to supercritical
geothermal systems.
(iv) Sensor development.
(v) Water-rock geochemistry.
(vi) Rock properties.
(vii) Hard rock and deep drilling.
(viii) Any other topics the Secretary
determines necessary.
(B) Prioritization.--In carrying out next-
generation geothermal research under the
program described in paragraph (1), the
Secretary shall prioritize projects best able
to produce iterative data for deep drilling
projects in unique geodynamic settings on the
following topics:
(i) Characterization and crustal
stress.
(ii) Lab work.
(iii) Drilling.
(iv) Stimulation.
(v) Power production.
(C) Administration.--The Secretary may
administer grants to institutions of higher
education and private sector entities to carry
out activities on the topics specified in
subparagraph (A) and, to the maximum extent
practicable, share data, results, and
information publicly.
(3) Report on water use.--Not later than five years
after the date of the enactment of this subsection, the
Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Natural
Resources and the Committee on Science, Space, and
Technology of the House of Representatives and the
Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate
a report on the following:
(A) Water use and estimated needs of enhanced
geothermal systems.
(B) Water use and estimated needs for closed-
loop, and next-generation geothermal energy
production.
(C) The ability of next-generation geothermal
systems to use brackish and nonpotable water.
(D) The withdrawal and consumption of water
per megawatt hour of next-generation geothermal
systems, as compared to other power-generation
technologies.
(E) Technological and operational
improvements that could lead to decreases in
water withdrawal and consumption of next-
generation geothermal systems.
(4) Next-generation geothermal center of
excellence.--
(A) Establishment.--The Secretary shall award
grants through a competitive, merit-reviewed
process, to National Laboratories (as such term
is defined in section 2 of the Energy Policy
Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 15801)), multi-
institutional collaborations, public-private
partnerships, or institutes of higher education
(or consortia thereof) for the following:
(i) The continuation and expansion of
research, development, demonstration,
testing, and commercial application
activities applicable to FORGE sites,
including activities in supercritical
conditions.
(ii) The establishment of a next-
generation geothermal systems center of
excellence.
(B) Location.--In selecting National
Laboratories, multi-institutional
collaborations, public-private partnerships, or
institutions of higher education (or a
consortia thereof) for a center of excellence
referred to in subparagraph (A), the Secretary
shall consider the following criteria:
(i) Whether the entity hosts an
existing geothermal energy research and
development program.
(ii) Whether the entity has proven
technical expertise to support
geothermal energy research.
(iii) Whether the entity has access
to geothermal resources.
(C) Purpose.--The center of excellence
referred to in subparagraph (A) shall
coordinate among existing FORGE sites, the
Department, and National Laboratories to carry
out the following:
(i) Advance research, development,
demonstration, and commercial
application of next-generation
geothermal energy technologies,
including supercritical geothermal
technologies, in response to industry
and commercial needs, including by
partnering with other academic or
research institutions, industry, non-
governmental organizations, and State,
local, or Tribal governments.
(ii) Foster collaboration for
education, research, and partnership
initiatives in order to support the
technology, deployment, and workforce
needs of the United States geothermal
energy industry, including a focus on
next-generation geothermal systems.
(iii) Support workforce development
across the next-generation geothermal
systems energy development lifecycle.
(iv) Provide educational, technical,
and analytical assistance on next-
generation geothermal systems to
Federal agencies, industry, and State,
local, and Tribal governments.
(v) Collect and disseminate
information on best practices in all
areas relating to developing and
managing geothermal energy resources
and energy systems, including next-
generation geothermal systems.
(5) Commercial-readiness innovation grants.--
(A) In general.--The Secretary shall award
grants to accelerate the development, testing,
and implementation of innovative technologies
identified as areas for improving the
performance of commercial geothermal energy
projects using next-generation geothermal
systems.
(B) Focus areas.--Grants may be awarded under
this paragraph for innovative technologies,
including the following:
(i) Hardrock drilling equipment,
components, and systems, including bit
design and vibration control.
(ii) Reservoir characterization, well
design and spacing, and completions.
(iii) Data acquisition and analysis,
including fiber optic sensing tools and
methodologies.
(C) Applications.--
(i) In general.--An entity seeking a
grant under this paragraph shall submit
to the Secretary an application at such
time, in such manner, and containing
such information as the Secretary may
require.
(ii) Prioritization.--In awarding
grants under this paragraph, the
Secretary shall give priority to the
following:
(I) Applicants, including
for-profit entities and public-
private partnerships, with
demonstrated expertise relating
to in-field development and
commercial operations for
geothermal energy projects.
(II) Projects with the
greatest ability to advance
near-term commercial deployment
of enhanced geothermal systems
and closed-loop geothermal
systems.
(III) Projects that advance
the commercialization of
geothermal energy projects in
diverse geological conditions
or supercritical conditions.
(D) Cost sharing.--The Federal share of the
cost of a project carried out with a grant
under this paragraph shall be not more than 80
percent.
(f) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to
be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section
$150,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2027 through 2031. Such
amounts shall be derived from amounts otherwise authorized to
be appropriated to the Office of Energy Efficiency and
Renewable Energy of the Department.
* * * * * * *
SEC. 617. ORGANIZATION AND ADMINISTRATION OF PROGRAMS.
(a) Federal Share.--The Federal share of costs of projects
funded under this subtitle shall be in accordance with section
988 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005.
(b) Organization and Administration of Programs.--Programs
under this subtitle shall incorporate the following elements:
(1) The Secretary shall coordinate with, and where
appropriate may provide funds in furtherance of the
purposes of this subtitle to, other Department of
Energy research and development programs focused on
drilling, subsurface characterization, and other
related technologies.
(2) The Secretary shall coordinate and consult with
the appropriate Federal land management agencies in
selecting proposals for funding under this subtitle.
(3) Nothing in this subtitle shall be construed to
alter or affect any law relating to the management or
protection of Federal lands.
(c) Education and Outreach.--In carrying out the activities
described in this subtitle, the Secretary shall support
education and outreach activities to disseminate information on
geothermal energy technologies and the geothermal energy
workforce, including activities at the Frontier Observatory for
Research in Geothermal Energy site or sites.
(d) Technical Assistance.--In carrying out this subtitle, the
Secretary shall also conduct technical assistance and analysis
activities with eligible entities for the purpose of supporting
the commercial application of advances in geothermal energy
systems development and operations, which may include
activities that support expanding access to advanced geothermal
energy technologies for rural, Tribal, and low-income
communities.
(e) Report.--Every 5 years after the date of enactment of
this subsection, the Secretary shall report to the [Committee
on Science and Technology] Committee on Science, Space, and
Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on
Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate on advanced concepts
and technologies to maximize the geothermal resource potential
of the United States.
[(f) Progress Reports.--Not later than 1 year after the date
of enactment of this subsection, and every 2 years thereafter,
the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Science and
Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on
Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate a report on the
results of projects undertaken under this part and other such
information the Secretary considers appropriate.]
(f) Progress Reports.--Not later than one year after the date
of the enactment of this subsection and every two years
thereafter, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on
Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives
and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate
a report that contains the following:
(1) A description of the maximum potential of
geothermal resources in the United States, including a
consideration of next-generation geothermal systems.
(2) Information relating to the results of projects
undertaken under this section.
(3) An assessment of the barriers to
commercialization of next-generation geothermal
technologies.
(4) Such other information as the Secretary considers
appropriate.
* * * * * * *
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ENERGY POLICY ACT OF 1992
* * * * * * *
TITLE XXV--COAL, OIL, AND GAS
SEC. 2501. HOT DRY ROCK GEOTHERMAL ENERGY.
(a) Definition of Enhanced Geothermal Systems.--In this
section, the term ``enhanced geothermal systems'' has the
meaning given the term in section 612 of the Energy
Independence and Security Act of 2007 (42 U.S.C. 17191).
(b) USGS Program.--The Secretary of the Interior, acting
through the United States Geological Survey, and in
consultationwith the Secretary of Energy, shall establish a
cooperative Government-private sector program with respect to
hot dry rock geothermal energy resources on public lands (as
such term is defined in section103(e) of the Federal Land
Policy and Management Act of 1976) and lands managed by the
Department of Agriculture, other thanany such public or other
lands that are withdrawn from geothermal leasing. Such program
shall include, but shall not be limited to,activities to
identify, select, and classify those areas throughout the
United States that have a high potential for hot dry
rockgeothermal energy production and activities to develop and
disseminate information regarding the utilization of such areas
for hotdry rock energy production. Such information may include
information regarding field test processes and techniques for
assuring thathot dry rock geothermal energy development
projects are developed in an economically feasible manner
without adverse environmental consequences. Utilizing the
information developed by the Secretary,together with
information developed in connection with otherrelated programs
carried out by other Federal agencies, the Secretary, acting
through the United States Geological Survey, may also enter
into contracts and cooperative agreements with any public or
private entity to provide assistance to any such entity to
enablesuch entity to carry out additional projects with respect
to theutilization of hot dry rock geothermal energy resources
which willfurther the purposes of this section.
(c) Update to Geothermal Resource Assessment.--The Secretary
of the Interior, acting through the United States Geological
Survey, and in consultation with the Secretary of Energy, shall
quadrennially update the 2008 United States geothermal resource
assessment carried out by the United States Geological Survey,
including--
(1) with respect to areas previously identified by
the Department of Energy or the United States
Geological Survey as having significant potential for
hydrothermal energy or enhanced geothermal systems
energy, by focusing on--
(A) improving the resolution of resource
potential at systematic temperatures and
depths, including temperatures and depths
appropriate for power generation and direct use
applications;
(B) quantifying the total potential to
coproduce geothermal energy and minerals;
(C) incorporating data relevant to
underground thermal energy storage and
exchange, such as aquifer and soil properties;
and
(D) producing high resolution maps,
including--
(i) maps that indicate key subsurface
parameters for electric and direct use
resources; and
(ii) risk maps for induced seismicity
based on geologic, geographic, and
operational parameters; [and]
(2) to the maximum extent practicable, by
coordinating with relevant State officials and
institutions of higher education to expand geothermal
assessments, including enhanced geothermal systems
assessments, to include assessments for the
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and the States of Alaska
and Hawaii[.]; and
(3) to the maximum extent practicable, by assessing
regions of the United States, including the United
States territories of American Samoa, Guam, Northern
Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin
Islands, with significant potential for supercritical
geothermal (as such term is defined in section 612 of
the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (42
U.S.C. 17191)).
[(d) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorizedto
be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry outthis
section.]
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