Water Code § 27.037

Sec. 27.037. JURISDICTION OVER CLOSED-LOOP GEOTHERMAL INJECTION WELLS. (a) In this section, "closed-loop geothermal injection well" means a closed system geothermal well used to circulate water, other fluids, or gases through the earth as a heat source or heat sink to generate power or heat or cool a structure. (b) The railroad commission has jurisdiction over closed-loop geothermal injection wells and may issue permits for closed-loop geothermal injection wells, including individual permits, general permits, or permits by rule. (c) A person may not begin drilling a closed-loop geothermal injection well unless that person holds a valid permit issued by the railroad commission under this section. (c-1) Sections 85.2021 and 91.142, Natural Resources Code, do not apply to a person who submits a request for authorization or is authorized to use a valid permit by rule issued by the railroad commission under this section. (d) For purposes of railroad commission regulation, a closed-loop geothermal injection well is designated as a Class V well under the underground injection control program administered by the railroad commission. (e) The railroad commission shall adopt rules as necessary to administer this section and regulate closed-loop geothermal injection wells. Added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 343 (S.B. 786), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2023. Amended by: Acts 2025, 89th Leg., R.S., Ch. 45 (S.B. 879), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2025. SUBCHAPTER C-1. GEOLOGIC STORAGE AND ASSOCIATED INJECTION OF ANTHROPOGENIC CARBON DIOXIDE