UT SB0021

Establishes that ownership of geothermal resources derives from surface land ownership, not from mineral estate ownership, unless the geothermal resource is expressly conveyed or reserved by recorded deed

Reserves geothermal resources on state and institutional trust lands to the state, with the state retaining title to geothermal resources on trust mineral estates owned as of May 6, 2026

Lowers the temperature threshold defining geothermal resources and fluids from 120 to 100 degrees centigrade, and expands the definition to include conventional hydrothermal, enhanced geothermal, and advanced geothermal systems

Requires a water right to use geothermal fluids and authorizes the Division of Water Rights to require surety bonds, well logs, and production records from operators, with confidentiality protections for up to five years

Takes effect May 6, 2026, and appropriates no money