House Ag Committee advances study bill on geothermal energy after technical testimony

Senate Bill 23-60, which would establish a legislative management study on geothermal energy, received a do-pass recommendation from the House Agriculture Committee after hearings featuring state geologists, energy developers and agriculture advocates.

The bill, introduced in the committee by Sen. Jim Hogan, would direct legislative study of whether and how North Dakota could develop geothermal resources. "Senate Bill 23 60 is a bill that I was asked to introduce by a constituent who's here today," Hogan said, describing the measure as a "shall consider study resolution" intended to examine geothermal's potential.

Supporters told the committee North Dakota has geological advantages for deep geothermal development and that repurposing inactive oil and gas wells could lower costs. Paul Jensen, a Fargo small-business owner testifying in favor, told the committee the bill "aims to pave the road for industries interested in and engaged in leveraging geothermal energy with existing power generators and to feed power data centers in addition to boosting agricultural…