Geothermal Cost-Recovery Authority Act of 2026

This bill amends the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970, granting the Department of the Interior authority to recover costs from geothermal lease applicants and holders. This new authority, effective until September 30, 2032, allows the Secretary to seek reimbursement for reasonable administrative and other costs incurred during the processing of various applications , such as leases and drilling permits. It also covers expenses for inspecting and monitoring activities, including geophysical exploration, well operations, and site reclamation. In determining reimbursement, the Secretary must consider existing cooperative cost-share agreements and has the discretion to reduce amounts if full recovery would impose economic hardship or hinder the promotion of geothermal resources. Funds collected will be credited to the Department of the Interior's appropriations as discretionary offsetting collections, available only through appropriations Acts, and must be used for the same application processing and monitoring purposes. Additionally, the bill mandates a report within five years, assessing the impact of these amendments on the Bureau of Land Management's geothermal program and recommending future reauthorization or program updates, developed in consultation with industry stakeholders.