Texas Water Code - WATER § 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.