The Pacific Promotion of Workable Energy Resources Act (Pacific POWER Act) is a bipartisan bill introduced in the U.S. Senate on May 20, 2026, by Senator Brian Schatz, with co-sponsors Senators David McCormick, John R. Curtis, and Christopher A. Coons. The bill aims to promote the development and use of geothermal energy resources in the Pacific region. Its key objectives include: 1) promoting geothermal energy generation and its direct applications; 2) strengthening relationships with Indo-Pacific nations by addressing their energy security vulnerabilities through geothermal resources; and 3) expanding U.S. exports of geothermal technology and services. To achieve these goals, the bill proposes establishing an International Geothermal Program that will: a) include public-private partnerships for geothermal resource exploration; b) facilitate financing and provide technical assistance for geothermal projects; and c) support community engagement and local economic benefits from geothermal development. The Secretary of State, in collaboration with the Secretary of Energy, is tasked with advancing geothermal energy through: i) establishing goals for geothermal deployment and direct use applications; ii) facilitating forums for knowledge-sharing and research among countries; iii) developing financial tools for geothermal exploration; and iv) promoting best practices and standards for geothermal projects. The focus will be on countries such as Taiwan, the Philippines, Japan, and Australia, among others in the Indo-Pacific region. The bill authorizes necessary appropriations for the program's implementation from fiscal years 2027 to 2031.
The Pacific POWER Act has been positively received by industry experts and policymakers who view it as a significant step toward enhancing U.S. leadership in global energy innovation. Ray Cai, an energy analyst, highlighted the bill's alignment with themes explored in his 2025 report on next-generation geothermal energy, emphasizing its potential to strengthen U.S. security and economic interests through international geothermal development. The bill's bipartisan support underscores a shared commitment to advancing renewable energy technologies and fostering international collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region.
As of now, there is limited media coverage expressing negative reactions to the Pacific POWER Act. However, potential criticisms could arise regarding the allocation of federal funds for international projects, with some stakeholders questioning whether domestic energy needs should take precedence over foreign initiatives. Additionally, concerns may be raised about the feasibility of implementing large-scale geothermal projects in certain Indo-Pacific countries due to technical, environmental, or political challenges. Critics might also argue that the bill's focus on geothermal energy could divert attention and resources from other renewable energy sources that may offer more immediate benefits.
The analysis of Bill S. 4610, the Pacific POWER Act, reveals no direct industry overlaps between the sponsor, Senator Brian Schatz, and his top donor industries. This indicates a low risk of conflicts of interest, as the financial support he has received does not appear to influence the legislative agenda of this bill. The absence of overlapping interests suggests that the motivations behind the bill are likely aligned with public interest rather than donor interests. Voters should be aware that while campaign contributions can sometimes lead to perceived conflicts, in this case, the data supports a clean legislative intent without financial entanglements.
Top industries funding Brian Schatz, ranked by total contributions.
Source: OpenSecrets.org (Center for Responsive Politics)
