AI-assisted analysis based on the official CRS summary. Source version: Jul 17, 2026. Analysis updated: Sep 15, 2026.
01 — The Text
What.
- The bill expands geothermal energy programs under the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, directing DOE to support research, development, demonstration, and commercial application of next-generation geothermal systems, including closed-loop systems in supercritical conditions.
- DOE must ensure at least one Frontier Observatory for Research in Geothermal Energy (FORGE) site has capabilities for next-generation geothermal testing.
- DOE must provide grants for FORGE site research activities and establish a next-generation geothermal systems center of excellence.
- DOE must expand its geothermal drilling information repository to include publicly available subsurface data from fossil fuel and mining operations and periodically update it.
- The Department of the Interior is authorized to commission drilling of supercritical geothermal exploration boreholes in certain areas for deep heat mapping and geothermal development.
02 — The Stakes
So what?
- The official summary documents the bill's directive for DOE grants and research programs but does not establish quantified funding amounts, timeline outcomes, or commercial deployment projections.
- Effects on energy production, cost competitiveness, or job creation are not documented in the official summary.
- The summary does not specify which geographic areas qualify for Interior Department borehole drilling or identify beneficiary regions.
03 — The Path
Now what?
- House passed the bill on July 20, 2026, by voice vote under suspension of the rules.
- Senate received the bill on July 21, 2026, and referred it to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
- No scheduled committee vote or floor action date is documented.
Legislative History
Actions.
- Jul 21, 2026 — Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
- Jul 20, 2026 — Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
- Jul 20, 2026 — On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H4667-4668)
- Jul 20, 2026 — Passed/agreed to in House: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H4667-4668)
- Jul 20, 2026 — DEBATE - The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 8790.
- Jul 20, 2026 — Considered under suspension of the rules. (consideration: CR H4667-4670)
- Jul 20, 2026 — Mr. Babin moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.
- Jul 16, 2026 — Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 655.