S.Amdt. 6080

This amendment, known as the Pacific Promotion of Workable Energy Resources Act (or the Pacific POWER Act), aims to add a new subtitle to bill S. 4784. Its purpose is to advance geothermal energy cooperation between the United States and its allies and partners, with a primary focus on the Indo-Pacific region.

The amendment seeks to change the bill by adding the following:

• Geothermal Diplomacy: It directs the Secretary of State to work bilaterally and multilaterally to increase geothermal deployment, create research forums, and develop financial tools and safety standards. It specifically prioritizes engagement with partners such as Taiwan, the Philippines, Japan, Australia, Indonesia, India, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and Thailand.

• International Geothermal Program: It establishes a Program to facilitate public-private partnerships for exploring and developing geothermal resources and next-generation technologies. This includes identifying export opportunities for U.S. companies and supporting workforce and supply chain development.

• Country Selection and Strategy: The Secretary must assess global resources and select at least five geothermal partners, including at least three from the Indo-Pacific. The amendment requires the development of a strategy for each partner and the pursuit of formal agreements or memoranda of understanding.

• Accountability and Oversight: To hold officials accountable, the amendment requires the Secretary to submit an initial assessment report, a detailed strategy report, and annual reports to the appropriate congressional committees. These reports must cover activities, personnel assigned, and the amount of assistance provided.

• Financial and Technical Support: It authorizes the Secretary to coordinate grants, loans, and loan guarantees for geothermal partners and U.S. companies participating in the Program.