Broadens the definition of “geothermal resources.” This act provides that unless the geothermal resources have been otherwise reserved or conveyed, they are the property of the holder of the title to the surface land above the resources. This act exempts certain uses of water associated with a geothermal well from the normal appropriation procedure. This act creates the geothermal account to support geothermal exploration, assessment, and research.   Official Text and Analysis.

Removes the provision regarding the removal of water within the groundwater exemption is removed. Provisions regarding conflict resolution conducted by DOE and DNR between existing geothermal and existing water right holders are removed. It is clarified that nothing in the act may affect or operate to impair any existing water rights.

Makes a number of changes to the definition of geothermal resources. By-products are defined as any minerals, except hydrocarbon gas, helium, or oil found in association with geothermal streams that do not warrant extraction and production based on their own economic value. Geothermal resources remain sui generis. Geothermal resources may be reserved or conveyed to another person or entity. Authorization under the Water Code is needed for consumptive and non-consumptive uses including but not limited to power production. Authorization is not needed under certain circumstances. DNR and DOE must avoid duplication and promote efficiency when issuing permits and other approvals for these uses. The Act must neither affect nor operate to impair any existing water rights. The geothermal energy account is created to provide for the allocation of revenues distributed to the state under the Mineral Lands Leasing Act of 1920 and the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970. Funds from this account must be distributed 70 percent to DNR for geothermal exploration, and 30 percent to Washington State University for encouraging development of geothermal resources.

Repeals the existing codified, yet terminated, statutes that deal with how the state allocates revenue provided by the federal government for geothermal resources developed on federal lands located in Washington.

?recreates the Geothermal Account to receive and direct the distribution of all revenues related to geothermal resource extraction on federal lands located in Washington. Updates the existing definition of "geothermal resources" to add specific inclusions and exemptions. Clarifies the relationship among geothermal resource wells and water wells.

To concur with House amendment(s).