2026 GRC Panel – Different States, Different Philosophies: How Western Regulators are Permitting Next-Generation Geothermal
Tuesday, September 22
7:30 AM – 9:30 AM | Session 2A: Panel – Different States, Different Philosophies: How Western Regulators are Permitting Next-Generation Geothermal
As geothermal investment grows and a new generation of companies are expanding the map of potential projects, state regulators are increasingly being asked to evaluate projects that do not fit neatly within traditional geothermal, water, mining, or oil and gas regulatory frameworks. Across the Western United States, states are taking different approaches to balancing innovation, resource development, water protection, public confidence, and regulatory certainty. Some states are building upon decades of conventional geothermal experience. Others are adapting oil and gas frameworks, while some are developing entirely new approaches for emerging geothermal technologies. And many aren't sure where to start. This regulator-focused panel will bring together senior state officials from leading geothermal states to discuss how their agencies are approaching permitting, what challenges they are encountering, and how regulatory frameworks may evolve as the industry scales. Particular attention will be paid to water permitting, groundwater protection, injection oversight, and interagency coordination.
Panelists:
- Dustin Holcomb, Nevada Division of Minerals
- Michael Rigby, Colorado Energy and Carbon Management
- Jared Ware, Railroad Commission of Texas