In this section:

The term “eligible entity” means—

(A) a utility;

(B) an electric cooperative;

(C) a State;

(D) a political subdivision of a State;

(E) an Indian tribe; or

(F) a Native corporation.

(2) High-cost region The term “high-cost region” means a region in which the average cost of electrical power exceeds 150 percent of the national average retail cost, as determined by the Secretary.

The Secretary shall use amounts made available to carry out this section to make grants to eligible entities for activities described in subsection (c).

An eligible entity may use grant funds under this section, with respect to a geothermal energy project in a high-cost region, only—

(1) to conduct a feasibility study, including a study of exploration, geochemical testing, geomagnetic surveys, geologic information gathering, baseline environmental studies, well drilling, resource characterization, permitting, and economic analysis;

(2) for design and engineering costs, relating to the project; and

(3) to demonstrate and promote commercial application of technologies related to geothermal energy as part of the project.

The cost-sharing requirements of section 16352 of this title shall apply to any project carried out under this section.

There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out this section.

(Pub. L. 110–140, title VI, § 625, Dec. 19, 2007, 121 Stat. 1685.)