Establishes a program for the Secretary of Energy to provide grants to states for networked geothermal heating and cooling systems.
Defines key terms such as “baseline energy usage intensity,” “eligible recipient,” and “networked geothermal heating and cooling system.”
Identifies eligible recipients for grants, including nonprofit entities, educational institutions, municipalities, and utilities.
Requires states to submit applications detailing expected benefits and plans for grant usage.
Grants can be used for project deployment, studies, and technical assistance related to geothermal systems.
Prioritizes funding for projects that lack access to private capital, larger block-scale projects, and those in low-income or disadvantaged communities.
Mandates compliance with wage rates and apprenticeship requirements for construction projects funded by grants.
Authorizes appropriations of $150 million for fiscal year 2025 and $120 million for each subsequent year through 2029, with a minimum allocation for Indian tribes.
Requires states to report on grant usage and project outcomes within specified timeframes.
Directs the Secretary to analyze and report on geothermal heat pump performance and related factors impacting deployment decisions.
Amends existing legislation to include definitions and guidance for waste heat to direct use systems.
