The bill, S.B. No. 1762, amends the Natural Resources Code to clarify the definition and regulatory framework for geothermal energy conservation wells in Texas. It specifies that a geothermal energy conservation well is a facility used for the retention of energy that can provide dispatchable electricity generation for the power grid. The bill also distinguishes geothermal energy conservation wells from battery energy storage resources.

Additionally, the bill outlines the requirements for a person to be designated as the operator of a geothermal energy conservation well. This includes filing a claim to a continuing possessory right in the mineral estate, geothermal energy estate, and the geologic space accessed by the well, along with submitting a completed certificate of compliance and a nonrefundable fee of $250. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses of the legislature or on September 1, 2025, if such a vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Natural Resources Code 89.047 (Natural Resources Code 89)