"These two measures will support exploration drilling, expand geothermal research into heating uses, and expedite leasing and development," remarked GEA Executive Director Karl Gawell.

Washington, D.C. (December 15, 2011) – The Geothermal Energy Association (GEA) today applauded the Senate Energy Committee for moving the ball forward for geothermal energy by passing two important geothermal measures, S. 1142 and S. 1149.

"These two measures will support exploration drilling, expand geothermal research into heating uses, and expedite leasing and development," remarked GEA Executive Director Karl Gawell.

S. 1142, the Geothermal Exploration and Technology Act of 2011, is sponsored by Senators Tester, Reid, Murkowski and Begich. It has three major provisions: 1) it proposes a new federal loan program to promote exploratory geothermal drilling, along with the mapping and development of the nation's substantial untapped geothermal potential; 2) it expands geothermal research into direct use and heat pump technologies; and 3) it facilitates the use of geothermal co-production by federal oil and gas leases.

S.1149, the Geothermal Production Expansion Act of 2011, is sponsored by Senators Wyden, Begich, Merkley, Crapo and Risch. It would modify the federal all-competitive leasing statue for geothermal to allow limited negotiated lease sales in circumstances where new discoveries have been made.

"These measures will help the geothermal industry continue to grow and support new jobs, the adoption of new technology, and expanded US exports," Gawell said. "The geothermal industry applauds the Senate Energy Committee for its work today."

For more information or to arrange an interview GEA Executive Director Karl Gawell, please contact Leni Schimpf at 646-695-7045 or Leni@rosengrouppr.com.

About the Geothermal Energy Association:
The Geothermal Energy Association (GEA) is a trade association composed of U.S. companies who support the expanded use of geothermal energy and are developing geothermal resources worldwide for electrical power generation and direct-heat uses. GEA advocates for public policies that will promote the development and utilization of geothermal resources, provides a forum for the industry to discuss issues and problems, encourages research and development to improve geothermal technologies, presents industry views to governmental organizations, provides assistance for the export of geothermal goods and services, compiles statistical data about the geothermal industry, and conducts education and outreach projects. For more information, please visit http://www.geo-energy.org/. Follow GEA on Twitter. Become a fan on Facebook.