Wyoming may be ready to join the ranks of seven other states that have propelled the United States to become the world leader in geothermal energy production. HB67 would create a geothermal energy task force consisting of members of the public, energy industry, academia and the water development commission.
If approved, the task force will investigate the geothermal energy production potential for residential, commercial and industrial electrical needs as well as the opportunity for cooperative ventures between developers of oil and gas resources and producers of geothermal energy.
The legislation would also explore potential impacts from the development of geothermal reservoirs on existing tourism and other uses of geothermal resources. Additionally, the task force will consider possible legislation to provide an environment conducive to development of geothermal resources.
Under this bill, the task force’s findings would be submitted to the joint minerals, business and economic development interim committee by November 1, 2021. The committee would then review the findings and recommendations and may sponsor legislation it deems appropriate for consideration by the legislature.
All members of the task force would be selected within 15 days of HB67 passing and would be dissolved on December 31st, 2021. This legislation is sponsored by Representative Steve Harshman and co-sponsored by Representatives Shelly Duncan, Scott Heiner, Lloyd Larsen and Albert Sommers as well as Senators Edward Cooper and Jeff Wasserburger.
