H.R. 8790 aims to update the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 by focusing on research, development, and practical applications of next-generation geothermal energy technologies. Specifically, it emphasizes closed-loop geothermal systems, which can operate under various environmental conditions, enhancing the potential for geothermal energy use across the United States.
Supporters of H.R. 8790 have praised the bill for promoting clean energy innovation and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. They argue that advancing geothermal technology could lead to significant environmental benefits and job creation in the renewable energy sector, positioning the U.S. as a leader in sustainable energy solutions.
Critics of H.R. 8790 express concerns about the bill's feasibility and the potential for high costs associated with developing new geothermal technologies. Some argue that the focus on geothermal energy may divert resources from other renewable energy sources that could yield quicker results in combating climate change.
The analysis of H.R. 8790, which focuses on advancing geothermal energy systems, reveals no direct industry overlaps between the bill's subject matter and the sponsor Pat Harrigan's top donor industries. The lobbying activity associated with this bill includes contributions from various entities, such as Amgen Inc. with a $5,000 donation and Grand Pharmaceutical Group Ltd with $90,000. However, these contributions do not directly relate to geothermal energy or the specific technologies outlined in the bill. As a result, the potential for conflicts of interest appears minimal, as the financial interests of the donors do not align with the objectives of the legislation. Voters should be aware that while there are significant contributions from various industries, they do not pose a direct conflict with the bill's focus on geothermal energy.
Organizations that lobbied on issues related to this bill's policy area.
| Client | Lobbying Firm | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| GRAND PHARMACEUTICAL GROUP LTD (FKA EAST OCEAN MEDICAL (HONG KONG) LIMITED) | CHECKMATE GOVERNMENT RELATIONS | $90,000 |
| ROCKY MOUNTAIN ELK FOUNDATION | DOUBLE HAUL STRATEGIES LLC | $9,000 |
| AMGEN INC. | WASHINGTON ADVOCACY GROUP | $5,000 |
| FUEL ETHANOL DISRUPTIVE BIOTECHNOLOGY RESEARCH CENTER INCORPATED | MR. AMIR GOULART SCHARIF | undisclosed |
| FUEL ETHANOL DISRUPTIVE BIOTECHNOLOGY RESEARCH CENTER INCORPATED | MR. AMIR GOULART SCHARIF | undisclosed |
| BLACKSTONE CONSTRUCTION LLC | WASHINGTON ADVOCACY GROUP | undisclosed |
| DENALI WATER SOLUTIONS | WASHINGTON ADVOCACY GROUP | undisclosed |
| NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYER ORGANIZATIONS (NAPEO) | ARENTFOX SCHIFF LLP | undisclosed |
| RROMA COUNCIL | RROMA COUNCIL | undisclosed |
| BAJO COHEN AGLIANO, P.A. ON BEHALF OF HEALTH EDGE INVESTMENT PARTNERS, LLC | BALLARD PARTNERS | undisclosed |
| ERUDIO BIO, INC. | BALLARD PARTNERS | undisclosed |
| THE LOUIS D. BRANDEIS CENTER FOR HUMAN RIGHTS UNDER LAW | THE LOUIS D. BRANDEIS CENTER FOR HUMAN RIGHTS UNDER LAW | undisclosed |
| CELLIGENCE LLC | BALLARD PARTNERS | undisclosed |
| PENN ENTERTAINMENT, INC. | BALLARD PARTNERS | undisclosed |
| COMMUNITY BANK ADVISORY SERVICES, LLC | COMMUNITY BANK ADVISORY SERVICES, LLC | undisclosed |
Source: Senate Lobbying Disclosure Act (LDA) filings, 2026
Top industries funding Pat Harrigan, ranked by total contributions.
Source: OpenSecrets.org (Center for Responsive Politics)
