HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania lawmakers are considering new regulations that could allow geothermal energy development statewide, potentially expanding clean energy options and reducing reliance on traditional fuel sources.
What This Means for You
- New rules could allow geothermal energy projects across Pennsylvania
- Energy sourced from underground heat could support heating, cooling, and electricity
- Lawmakers aim to balance development with environmental protections
The proposed legislation, House Bill 2076, would create a regulatory framework for geothermal energy — a process that uses heat from deep underground to generate power or provide heating and cooling — an area where Pennsylvania currently lacks clear rules.
Lawmakers Consider Regulatory Framework
The House Energy Committee held a public hearing on the bipartisan bill, sponsored by state Reps. Arvind Venkat, Craig Williams, and committee Chair Elizabeth Fiedler.
Supporters say establishing consistent regulations is necessary to attract investment and allow geothermal projects to move forward in Pennsylvania.
“As demand increases, we desperately need to develop all of the energy resources in Pennsylvania,” Venkat said. “Geothermal energy is a clean, always-on resource that can help meet the heating and cooling needs of our Commonwealth.”
Fiedler said the bill could position Pennsylvania as an early adopter of emerging energy technology.
“I hope Representative Venkat’s geothermal development bill will allow the Commonwealth to be an early adopter of this game-changing technology,” Fiedler said.
Technology Expanding Beyond Traditional Regions
Geothermal energy has historically been limited to areas with natural heat sources such as volcanic regions or hot springs, but advances in drilling technology now allow access to heat deep beneath the earth’s surface in more locations.
That shift has made geothermal development more feasible in Pennsylvania, which officials say has both the geological conditions and workforce to support the industry.
As of 2025, 99 geothermal power plants were operating in the United States, producing nearly 4 gigawatts of electricity — enough to power millions of homes.
Experts Weigh In on Environmental and Industry Impact
Testimony at the hearing included input from state regulators, environmental advocates, and industry experts from Pennsylvania and Texas.
Seth Pelepko, deputy secretary for oil and gas at the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, told lawmakers the agency has applied for federal funding through the U.S. Department of Energy to support geothermal pilot projects.
Benjamin Sebree, an attorney and former general counsel for the Texas Oil and Gas Association, said the bill provides a structured approach to balancing development with public safety.
“Based on my experience in the geothermal energy industry, as well as in the oil and gas industry, this bill looks well drafted to create a statutory and regulatory structure in Pennsylvania,” Sebree said.
Growing National Momentum
Interest in geothermal energy is increasing across the country, with legislation introduced in 14 states and enacted in seven as of March 2026.
At the federal level, the Department of Energy offers financing programs aimed at accelerating geothermal development.
Next Steps
House Bill 2076 must be approved by the House Energy Committee before it can advance to a full vote in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
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