Puerto Rico Energy Opportunity and Geothermal Assessment Act of 2026
- Sponsor
- Rescom. Hernández, Pablo Jose [D-PR-At Large]
- Committees
- Natural Resources Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 3, 2026
Bottom line
The bill directs the federal government to conduct detailed geothermal energy potential and risk assessments for Puerto Rico, aiming to support the island's energy independence and resilience.
What it actually does
This bill amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to specifically require the Secretary of the Interior, through the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), to conduct comprehensive geothermal assessments for the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. These assessments must include enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) potential, groundwater vulnerability, and seismic risks. The bill also mandates regular reports to Congress on the status and findings of these assessments.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that this bill is a crucial step towards helping Puerto Rico achieve energy independence and resilience by thoroughly evaluating its geothermal resources. They contend that a detailed federal assessment, including environmental and seismic considerations, will provide the necessary data for safe and sustainable energy development, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and strengthening the island's infrastructure against future disruptions.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that while the goal is laudable, the bill creates a new unfunded mandate on federal agencies, potentially diverting resources from other critical USGS or Department of Energy initiatives. Some may also express concerns about the potential for federal overreach into local energy planning or question the cost-effectiveness of extensive geothermal assessments given Puerto Rico's other pressing infrastructure needs.
The bill is very short and can be read and understood quickly, allowing ample time for informed evaluation.
Section 2(1)
Removal of Puerto Rico from General Geothermal Assessment
This provision makes a technical amendment to the Energy Policy Act of 1992 by removing the specific mention of 'the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and' from subsection (c)(2). This change is made to allow for a new, dedicated subsection specifically addressing geothermal assessments for Puerto Rico, rather than including it under a broader, less specific mandate.
Supporters argue
Proponents argue this technical amendment is necessary to streamline the legislative text and set the stage for a more focused and comprehensive assessment for Puerto Rico, ensuring dedicated attention to its unique energy needs.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against this technical provision, as its primary purpose is structural rather than substantive policy change.
Tradeoffs
This is a technical change that facilitates the main policy goal, so there are no significant tradeoffs or tensions associated with this specific amendment itself.
Section 2(3), new subsection (d)(1)
Mandatory Geothermal Assessments for Puerto Rico
This core provision mandates that the Secretary of the Interior, through the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Director, and in consultation with the Secretary of Energy, must conduct geothermal assessments for Puerto Rico. These assessments are explicitly required to include enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) assessments, which explore advanced technologies for extracting heat from deeper, hotter rock formations.
Section 2(3), new subsection (d)(2)
Specific Assessment Requirements and Risk Mitigation
This section details the specific components required for the geothermal assessments. It mandates the production of high-resolution maps and geospatial data, assessments of groundwater vulnerability (especially in karst terrain and highly transmissive aquifer systems), and assessments of seismic hazards and induced seismicity risks associated with enhanced geothermal systems exploration and development. These requirements aim to ensure that potential environmental and safety concerns are thoroughly investigated.
Section 2(3), new subsection (d)(3)
Biennial Reporting to Congress
This provision requires the Secretary of the Interior, through the USGS Director, to submit reports to the House Committee on Natural Resources and the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. The first report is due one year after enactment, and subsequent reports are due biennially until the assessments are complete. These reports must detail the status of activities, coordination efforts, preliminary results, obstacles encountered, and planned next steps.