Preliminary

sec.1 Short title

This regulation may be cited as the Geothermal Energy Regulation 2022 .

sec.2 Commencement

This regulation commences on 1 September 2022.

sec.3 Definitions

The dictionary in schedule 6 defines particular words used in this regulation.

sec.4 Deciding large-scale geothermal production— Act , s 16

For section 16 (2) of the Act , the following criteria are prescribed— the total amount of thermal power produced from all geothermal wells measured at the wellhead is 5 megawatts thermal (MW th ) or more when the temperature is 0°C and the atmospheric pressure is 1 atm; For a geothermal well that produces 50 tonnes an hour of geothermal fluid with specific enthalpy of 900 kilojoules a kilogram, the total amount of thermal power produced from the well measured at the wellhead is 12.5 MW th (above 0°C). the geothermal production is for a commercial or industrial purpose.

• (a) the total amount of thermal power produced from all geothermal wells measured at the wellhead is 5 megawatts thermal (MW th ) or more when the temperature is 0°C and the atmospheric pressure is 1 atm; Example of measurement of thermal power— For a geothermal well that produces 50 tonnes an hour of geothermal fluid with specific enthalpy of 900 kilojoules a kilogram, the total amount of thermal power produced from the well measured at the wellhead is 12.5 MW th (above 0°C).
• (b) the geothermal production is for a commercial or industrial purpose.

Requirements for proposed work programs and development plans

sec.5 Proposed work program— Act , s 47

For section 47 (1) (f) of the Act , the following matters are prescribed— a description of the geological model for the geothermal reservoirs in the area of the proposed geothermal permit; an assessment of the potential for the discovery of geothermal resources in the area of the proposed geothermal permit; an estimate of the recoverable thermal energy in the area using units of petajoules thermal (PJ th ) the geoscientific information, standards and procedures used to make the estimate of recoverable geothermal energy an explanation of the rationale, having regard to the geological model mentioned in paragraph (a) , for the activities proposed to be carried out under the proposed geothermal permit; an outline of the expected outcomes to be achieved by the proposed work program.

• (a) a description of the geological model for the geothermal reservoirs in the area of the proposed geothermal permit;
• (b) an assessment of the potential for the discovery of geothermal resources in the area of the proposed geothermal permit; Examples of information that may be included in an assessment— • an estimate of the recoverable thermal energy in the area using units of petajoules thermal (PJ th ) • the geoscientific information, standards and procedures used to make the estimate of recoverable geothermal energy
• • an estimate of the recoverable thermal energy in the area using units of petajoules thermal (PJ th )
• • the geoscientific information, standards and procedures used to make the estimate of recoverable geothermal energy
• (c) an explanation of the rationale, having regard to the geological model mentioned in paragraph (a) , for the activities proposed to be carried out under the proposed geothermal permit;
• (d) an outline of the expected outcomes to be achieved by the proposed work program.
• • an estimate of the recoverable thermal energy in the area using units of petajoules thermal (PJ th )
• • the geoscientific information, standards and procedures used to make the estimate of recoverable geothermal energy

sec.6 Proposed development plan— Act , s 89

For section 89 (1) (e) of the Act , the following matters are prescribed— for each geothermal reservoir identified in the area of the proposed geothermal lease, the location of the boundaries of the classified geothermal resources in the reservoir; details, including the location, type and size, of the infrastructure intended to be located in the area of the proposed geothermal lease. communication systems, compressors, pipelines, powerlines, pumping stations, reservoirs, roads, substations temporary structures or structures of an industrial or technical nature, including mobile and temporary camps

• (a) for each geothermal reservoir identified in the area of the proposed geothermal lease, the location of the boundaries of the classified geothermal resources in the reservoir;
• (b) details, including the location, type and size, of the infrastructure intended to be located in the area of the proposed geothermal lease. Examples of infrastructure— • communication systems, compressors, pipelines, powerlines, pumping stations, reservoirs, roads, substations • temporary structures or structures of an industrial or technical nature, including mobile and temporary camps
• • communication systems, compressors, pipelines, powerlines, pumping stations, reservoirs, roads, substations
• • temporary structures or structures of an industrial or technical nature, including mobile and temporary camps
• • communication systems, compressors, pipelines, powerlines, pumping stations, reservoirs, roads, substations
• • temporary structures or structures of an industrial or technical nature, including mobile and temporary camps

Notice requirements

sec.7 Purpose of part

This part prescribes, for section 192 (1) (b) of the Act , the notices that a geothermal tenure holder must give to the chief executive in the approved form.

sec.8 Notice of intention to drill a geothermal well

A geothermal tenure holder must, at least 10 business days before starting to drill a geothermal well in the area of the tenure, give the chief executive a notice stating— that the well is to be drilled; and the proposed identifying name for the well. The proposed identifying name for the geothermal well must not be the same, or substantially the same, as an identifying name for another geothermal well recorded in the register. (sec.8-ssec.1) A geothermal tenure holder must, at least 10 business days before starting to drill a geothermal well in the area of the tenure, give the chief executive a notice stating— that the well is to be drilled; and the proposed identifying name for the well. (sec.8-ssec.2) The proposed identifying name for the geothermal well must not be the same, or substantially the same, as an identifying name for another geothermal well recorded in the register.

• (a) that the well is to be drilled; and
• (b) the proposed identifying name for the well.

sec.9 Notice of completion, change or abandonment of geothermal well

This section applies if any of the following events happen in relation to a geothermal well in the area of a geothermal tenure— drilling of the well is completed; the completion configuration of the well changes; the well is abandoned. The geothermal tenure holder must, within 10 business days after the event happens, give the chief executive a notice stating that the event has happened. For subsection (1) — drilling of a geothermal well in the area of the geothermal tenure is completed if— the drilling rig last used to drill the well is moved so it is no longer above the well; and the geothermal tenure holder does not intend to continue drilling the well; and the completion configuration of a geothermal well in the area of the geothermal tenure changes if, after drilling of the well is completed— additional casing is installed in the well; or any part of the well is plugged, other than for decommissioning the well; or an interval in the well is changed in any other way. (sec.9-ssec.1) This section applies if any of the following events happen in relation to a geothermal well in the area of a geothermal tenure— drilling of the well is completed; the completion configuration of the well changes; the well is abandoned. (sec.9-ssec.2) The geothermal tenure holder must, within 10 business days after the event happens, give the chief executive a notice stating that the event has happened. (sec.9-ssec.3) For subsection (1) — drilling of a geothermal well in the area of the geothermal tenure is completed if— the drilling rig last used to drill the well is moved so it is no longer above the well; and the geothermal tenure holder does not intend to continue drilling the well; and the completion configuration of a geothermal well in the area of the geothermal tenure changes if, after drilling of the well is completed— additional casing is installed in the well; or any part of the well is plugged, other than for decommissioning the well; or an interval in the well is changed in any other way.

• (a) drilling of the well is completed;
• (b) the completion configuration of the well changes;
• (c) the well is abandoned.
• (a) drilling of a geothermal well in the area of the geothermal tenure is completed if— (i) the drilling rig last used to drill the well is moved so it is no longer above the well; and (ii) the geothermal tenure holder does not intend to continue drilling the well; and
• (i) the drilling rig last used to drill the well is moved so it is no longer above the well; and
• (ii) the geothermal tenure holder does not intend to continue drilling the well; and
• (b) the completion configuration of a geothermal well in the area of the geothermal tenure changes if, after drilling of the well is completed— (i) additional casing is installed in the well; or (ii) any part of the well is plugged, other than for decommissioning the well; or (iii) an interval in the well is changed in any other way.
• (i) additional casing is installed in the well; or
• (ii) any part of the well is plugged, other than for decommissioning the well; or
• (iii) an interval in the well is changed in any other way.
• (i) the drilling rig last used to drill the well is moved so it is no longer above the well; and
• (ii) the geothermal tenure holder does not intend to continue drilling the well; and
• (i) additional casing is installed in the well; or
• (ii) any part of the well is plugged, other than for decommissioning the well; or
• (iii) an interval in the well is changed in any other way.

sec.10 Notice of intention to carry out geophysical survey or scientific or technical survey

This section applies if a geophysical survey or a scientific or technical survey is to be carried out in the area of a geothermal tenure. The geothermal tenure holder must, at least 10 business days before the survey starts, give the chief executive a notice stating the following information— a proposed identifying name for the survey; the type of survey to be carried out; seismic, geochemical, geotechnical, gravity, magnetic, MT a description of the part of the area of the tenure to be surveyed; the day surveying will start; the expected duration of the surveying. The notice must be accompanied by spatial information showing the location of the part of the area of the geothermal tenure to be surveyed. The proposed identifying name for the survey must not be the same, or substantially the same, as an identifying name for another survey recorded in the register. (sec.10-ssec.1) This section applies if a geophysical survey or a scientific or technical survey is to be carried out in the area of a geothermal tenure. (sec.10-ssec.2) The geothermal tenure holder must, at least 10 business days before the survey starts, give the chief executive a notice stating the following information— a proposed identifying name for the survey; the type of survey to be carried out; seismic, geochemical, geotechnical, gravity, magnetic, MT a description of the part of the area of the tenure to be surveyed; the day surveying will start; the expected duration of the surveying. (sec.10-ssec.3) The notice must be accompanied by spatial information showing the location of the part of the area of the geothermal tenure to be surveyed. (sec.10-ssec.4) The proposed identifying name for the survey must not be the same, or substantially the same, as an identifying name for another survey recorded in the register.

• (a) a proposed identifying name for the survey;
• (b) the type of survey to be carried out; Examples— seismic, geochemical, geotechnical, gravity, magnetic, MT
• (c) a description of the part of the area of the tenure to be surveyed;
• (d) the day surveying will start;
• (e) the expected duration of the surveying.

sec.11 Notice of completion of geophysical survey or scientific or technical survey

This section applies if a geophysical survey or a scientific or technical survey has been completed in the area of a geothermal tenure. The geothermal tenure holder must, within 10 business days after the survey is completed, give the chief executive a notice stating that the survey has been completed. For subsection (1) , a survey is completed when all of the raw data for the survey has been recorded. (sec.11-ssec.1) This section applies if a geophysical survey or a scientific or technical survey has been completed in the area of a geothermal tenure. (sec.11-ssec.2) The geothermal tenure holder must, within 10 business days after the survey is completed, give the chief executive a notice stating that the survey has been completed. (sec.11-ssec.3) For subsection (1) , a survey is completed when all of the raw data for the survey has been recorded.

sec.12 Notice of intention to carry out hydraulic fracturing activities

This section applies if a geothermal tenure holder intends to carry out hydraulic fracturing activities in the area of the tenure. The holder must, at least 10 business days before starting the hydraulic fracturing activities, give the chief executive a notice stating the day the activities are to start. (sec.12-ssec.1) This section applies if a geothermal tenure holder intends to carry out hydraulic fracturing activities in the area of the tenure. (sec.12-ssec.2) The holder must, at least 10 business days before starting the hydraulic fracturing activities, give the chief executive a notice stating the day the activities are to start.

sec.13 Notice of completion of hydraulic fracturing activities

This section applies if a geothermal tenure holder has completed hydraulic fracturing activities in the area of the tenure. The holder must, within 10 business days after completing the hydraulic fracturing activities, give the chief executive a notice stating the day the activities were completed. (sec.13-ssec.1) This section applies if a geothermal tenure holder has completed hydraulic fracturing activities in the area of the tenure. (sec.13-ssec.2) The holder must, within 10 business days after completing the hydraulic fracturing activities, give the chief executive a notice stating the day the activities were completed.

Report requirements

Particular reports required under the Act

sec.14 Definitions for division

In this division— general area information , for a geothermal tenure, for a partial relinquishment report or surrender report, see section 15 . hazard information , for a geothermal tenure, means the following information for a hazard arising, or potentially arising, from activities carried out under the tenure— the nature of the hazard; the cause, or reasons for existence, of the hazard; the location of the hazard; measures taken to prevent or reduce the risk of the hazard or to mitigate the effects of the hazard. partial relinquishment report means a report that must be given to the chief executive under section 190 of the Act . relinquished area , for a geothermal tenure, means the part of the area of the tenure that is relinquished as required or authorised under the Act . surrendered area , for a geothermal tenure, means the part of the area of the tenure that is the subject of the geothermal tenure holder’s surrender application. surrender report means a report that must accompany a surrender application under section 302 (2) of the Act .

• (a) the nature of the hazard;
• (b) the cause, or reasons for existence, of the hazard;
• (c) the location of the hazard;
• (d) measures taken to prevent or reduce the risk of the hazard or to mitigate the effects of the hazard.

sec.15 Meaning of general area information

The following information is general area information , for a geothermal tenure, for a partial relinquishment report or surrender report for the tenure— spatial information showing the location of— the area of the tenure immediately before the relinquishment or surrender the subject of the report; and the relinquished area or surrendered area the subject of the report; and geothermal wells drilled under the tenure; and seismic lines used to carry out seismic surveys for the tenure; structure contour spatial information showing the seismic horizons (seismic reflectors) in the relinquished area or surrendered area the subject of the report.

• (a) spatial information showing the location of— (i) the area of the tenure immediately before the relinquishment or surrender the subject of the report; and (ii) the relinquished area or surrendered area the subject of the report; and (iii) geothermal wells drilled under the tenure; and (iv) seismic lines used to carry out seismic surveys for the tenure;
• (i) the area of the tenure immediately before the relinquishment or surrender the subject of the report; and
• (ii) the relinquished area or surrendered area the subject of the report; and
• (iii) geothermal wells drilled under the tenure; and
• (iv) seismic lines used to carry out seismic surveys for the tenure;
• (b) structure contour spatial information showing the seismic horizons (seismic reflectors) in the relinquished area or surrendered area the subject of the report.
• (i) the area of the tenure immediately before the relinquishment or surrender the subject of the report; and
• (ii) the relinquished area or surrendered area the subject of the report; and
• (iii) geothermal wells drilled under the tenure; and
• (iv) seismic lines used to carry out seismic surveys for the tenure;

sec.16 Requirement for geothermal viability report— Act , s 65

For section 65 (4) (a) (i) of the Act , it is a requirement that a geothermal viability report for an area must contain the following information— identification of each geothermal reservoir in the area; an estimate of all classified geothermal resources identified in each geothermal reservoir in the area; the geoscientific information, standards and procedures used to make the estimate mentioned in paragraph (b) ; geological, geochemical, geophysical or geotechnical information a statement whether, in the geothermal permit holder’s opinion, geothermal production in the area is commercially viable; if the geothermal permit holder’s opinion is that geothermal production is not commercially viable—a statement about whether, in the holder’s opinion, it is likely to become commercially viable within 10 years; supporting data, and an analysis of the data, to support the opinions mentioned in paragraphs (d) and (e) . In this section— area means the part of the area of a geothermal permit that is a potential geothermal commercial area. numerical modelling study means a study of the likely performance of a geothermal reservoir using a numerical model. resource assessment means an estimate of the future production of geothermal energy from a geothermal reservoir. supporting data , for an area, includes— technical data relating to the geology of, and the geothermal reservoirs in, the area; and resource assessment and numerical modelling studies for geothermal reservoirs in the area; and market and financial data for the area. an engineering and economic feasibility study showing that geothermal production in the area can be economically and technically justified data showing the uses for the geothermal energy (sec.16-ssec.1) For section 65 (4) (a) (i) of the Act , it is a requirement that a geothermal viability report for an area must contain the following information— identification of each geothermal reservoir in the area; an estimate of all classified geothermal resources identified in each geothermal reservoir in the area; the geoscientific information, standards and procedures used to make the estimate mentioned in paragraph (b) ; geological, geochemical, geophysical or geotechnical information a statement whether, in the geothermal permit holder’s opinion, geothermal production in the area is commercially viable; if the geothermal permit holder’s opinion is that geothermal production is not commercially viable—a statement about whether, in the holder’s opinion, it is likely to become commercially viable within 10 years; supporting data, and an analysis of the data, to support the opinions mentioned in paragraphs (d) and (e) . (sec.16-ssec.2) In this section— area means the part of the area of a geothermal permit that is a potential geothermal commercial area. numerical modelling study means a study of the likely performance of a geothermal reservoir using a numerical model. resource assessment means an estimate of the future production of geothermal energy from a geothermal reservoir. supporting data , for an area, includes— technical data relating to the geology of, and the geothermal reservoirs in, the area; and resource assessment and numerical modelling studies for geothermal reservoirs in the area; and market and financial data for the area. an engineering and economic feasibility study showing that geothermal production in the area can be economically and technically justified data showing the uses for the geothermal energy

• (a) identification of each geothermal reservoir in the area;
• (b) an estimate of all classified geothermal resources identified in each geothermal reservoir in the area;
• (c) the geoscientific information, standards and procedures used to make the estimate mentioned in paragraph (b) ; Examples of geoscientific information— geological, geochemical, geophysical or geotechnical information
• (d) a statement whether, in the geothermal permit holder’s opinion, geothermal production in the area is commercially viable;
• (e) if the geothermal permit holder’s opinion is that geothermal production is not commercially viable—a statement about whether, in the holder’s opinion, it is likely to become commercially viable within 10 years;
• (f) supporting data, and an analysis of the data, to support the opinions mentioned in paragraphs (d) and (e) .
• (a) technical data relating to the geology of, and the geothermal reservoirs in, the area; and
• (b) resource assessment and numerical modelling studies for geothermal reservoirs in the area; and
• (c) market and financial data for the area. Examples of market and financial data— • an engineering and economic feasibility study showing that geothermal production in the area can be economically and technically justified • data showing the uses for the geothermal energy
• • an engineering and economic feasibility study showing that geothermal production in the area can be economically and technically justified
• • data showing the uses for the geothermal energy
• • an engineering and economic feasibility study showing that geothermal production in the area can be economically and technically justified
• • data showing the uses for the geothermal energy

sec.17 Information for partial relinquishment report— Act , s 190

For section 190 (2) (b) of the Act , the following information is prescribed for a partial relinquishment report for a geothermal tenure— the general area information for the tenure; the hazard information for the tenure; the day the relinquishment takes effect; identification of the blocks or sub-blocks comprising the relinquished area; the reason the geothermal tenure holder relinquished the relinquished area; a description of the geological model for the geothermal reservoirs in the relinquished area; a summary of the results of all authorised activities for the tenure carried out in the relinquished area since the tenure took effect; any conclusions drawn by the geothermal tenure holder based on the results mentioned in paragraph (g) ; an estimate of the total mass flow of geothermal fluid from each geothermal well in the relinquished area for each year since the tenure took effect; the period of the work program or development plan for the tenure; any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.

• (a) the general area information for the tenure;
• (b) the hazard information for the tenure;
• (c) the day the relinquishment takes effect;
• (d) identification of the blocks or sub-blocks comprising the relinquished area;
• (e) the reason the geothermal tenure holder relinquished the relinquished area;
• (f) a description of the geological model for the geothermal reservoirs in the relinquished area;
• (g) a summary of the results of all authorised activities for the tenure carried out in the relinquished area since the tenure took effect;
• (h) any conclusions drawn by the geothermal tenure holder based on the results mentioned in paragraph (g) ;
• (i) an estimate of the total mass flow of geothermal fluid from each geothermal well in the relinquished area for each year since the tenure took effect;
• (j) the period of the work program or development plan for the tenure;
• (k) any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.

sec.18 Information for surrender report— Act , s 302

For section 302 (2) (c) of the Act , the following information is prescribed for a surrender report for a geothermal tenure— the general area information for the tenure; the hazard information for the tenure; a description of the methods used to produce geothermal energy in the surrendered area; an estimate of— the amount of geothermal energy produced from each geothermal well in the surrendered area for each year since the tenure took effect; and the volume of water or disposal fluid injected into each injection well in the surrendered area; the surface temperature of the water or disposal fluid mentioned in paragraph (d) (ii) at the point of injection; a description of the geological features of the classified geothermal resources in the surrendered area from which geothermal energy was produced; the reason the geothermal tenure holder has applied to surrender all or part of the area of the tenure; any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report. In this section— injection well means a well used to— return geothermal fluid to a geothermal reservoir after its use; or introduce another fluid into the reservoir. water, supercritical carbon dioxide (sec.18-ssec.1) For section 302 (2) (c) of the Act , the following information is prescribed for a surrender report for a geothermal tenure— the general area information for the tenure; the hazard information for the tenure; a description of the methods used to produce geothermal energy in the surrendered area; an estimate of— the amount of geothermal energy produced from each geothermal well in the surrendered area for each year since the tenure took effect; and the volume of water or disposal fluid injected into each injection well in the surrendered area; the surface temperature of the water or disposal fluid mentioned in paragraph (d) (ii) at the point of injection; a description of the geological features of the classified geothermal resources in the surrendered area from which geothermal energy was produced; the reason the geothermal tenure holder has applied to surrender all or part of the area of the tenure; any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report. (sec.18-ssec.2) In this section— injection well means a well used to— return geothermal fluid to a geothermal reservoir after its use; or introduce another fluid into the reservoir. water, supercritical carbon dioxide

• (a) the general area information for the tenure;
• (b) the hazard information for the tenure;
• (c) a description of the methods used to produce geothermal energy in the surrendered area;
• (d) an estimate of— (i) the amount of geothermal energy produced from each geothermal well in the surrendered area for each year since the tenure took effect; and (ii) the volume of water or disposal fluid injected into each injection well in the surrendered area;
• (i) the amount of geothermal energy produced from each geothermal well in the surrendered area for each year since the tenure took effect; and
• (ii) the volume of water or disposal fluid injected into each injection well in the surrendered area;
• (e) the surface temperature of the water or disposal fluid mentioned in paragraph (d) (ii) at the point of injection;
• (f) a description of the geological features of the classified geothermal resources in the surrendered area from which geothermal energy was produced;
• (g) the reason the geothermal tenure holder has applied to surrender all or part of the area of the tenure;
• (h) any other information stated in the relevant direction for the report.
• (i) the amount of geothermal energy produced from each geothermal well in the surrendered area for each year since the tenure took effect; and
• (ii) the volume of water or disposal fluid injected into each injection well in the surrendered area;
• (a) return geothermal fluid to a geothermal reservoir after its use; or
• (b) introduce another fluid into the reservoir. Examples of a fluid— water, supercritical carbon dioxide

sec.19 Information for end of tenure report— Act , s 191

For section 191 (g) of the Act , the following information is prescribed— for an end of tenure report for a geothermal permit—the information required for a report under section 17 ; for an end of tenure report for a geothermal lease—the information required for a report under section 18 . For subsection (1) — a reference in section 17 to the relinquished area is taken to be a reference to the area of the geothermal permit immediately before it ended; and a reference in section 18 to the surrendered area is taken to be a reference to the area of the geothermal lease immediately before it ended. Subsection (1) does not apply to the extent the information has already been included in either of the following reports given to the chief executive for the geothermal tenure— a partial relinquishment report; a surrender report. (sec.19-ssec.1) For section 191 (g) of the Act , the following information is prescribed— for an end of tenure report for a geothermal permit—the information required for a report under section 17 ; for an end of tenure report for a geothermal lease—the information required for a report under section 18 . (sec.19-ssec.2) For subsection (1) — a reference in section 17 to the relinquished area is taken to be a reference to the area of the geothermal permit immediately before it ended; and a reference in section 18 to the surrendered area is taken to be a reference to the area of the geothermal lease immediately before it ended. (sec.19-ssec.3) Subsection (1) does not apply to the extent the information has already been included in either of the following reports given to the chief executive for the geothermal tenure— a partial relinquishment report; a surrender report.

• (a) for an end of tenure report for a geothermal permit—the information required for a report under section 17 ;
• (b) for an end of tenure report for a geothermal lease—the information required for a report under section 18 .
• (a) a reference in section 17 to the relinquished area is taken to be a reference to the area of the geothermal permit immediately before it ended; and
• (b) a reference in section 18 to the surrendered area is taken to be a reference to the area of the geothermal lease immediately before it ended.
• (a) a partial relinquishment report;
• (b) a surrender report.

Other reports

sec.20 Purpose of division

This division prescribes, for section 192 (1) of the Act , information and reports that a geothermal tenure holder must keep or give to the chief executive.

sec.21 Daily drilling report

A geothermal tenure holder must keep a report for each day on which drilling of a geothermal well is carried out under the tenure (a daily drilling report ) containing the information stated in schedule 1 , section 1 . A copy of each daily drilling report for the geothermal well must be given to the chief executive with the well completion report for the well. Also, a copy of a daily drilling report for the geothermal well must be given to the chief executive at any time the chief executive asks for the copy. (sec.21-ssec.1) A geothermal tenure holder must keep a report for each day on which drilling of a geothermal well is carried out under the tenure (a daily drilling report ) containing the information stated in schedule 1 , section 1 . (sec.21-ssec.2) A copy of each daily drilling report for the geothermal well must be given to the chief executive with the well completion report for the well. (sec.21-ssec.3) Also, a copy of a daily drilling report for the geothermal well must be given to the chief executive at any time the chief executive asks for the copy.

sec.22 Well completion report

A geothermal tenure holder must, within 12 months after the rig release day for a geothermal well in the area of the tenure, give the chief executive a report about the completion of the well (a well completion report ) containing the information stated in schedule 1 , section 2 . If the geothermal well is plugged and abandoned on or before the rig release day for the well, the well completion report must be accompanied by a well abandonment report for the well. (sec.22-ssec.1) A geothermal tenure holder must, within 12 months after the rig release day for a geothermal well in the area of the tenure, give the chief executive a report about the completion of the well (a well completion report ) containing the information stated in schedule 1 , section 2 . (sec.22-ssec.2) If the geothermal well is plugged and abandoned on or before the rig release day for the well, the well completion report must be accompanied by a well abandonment report for the well.

sec.23 Well abandonment report

If a geothermal well in the area of a geothermal tenure is plugged and abandoned, the geothermal tenure holder must give the chief executive a report about the abandonment of the well (a well abandonment report ) containing the information stated in schedule 1 , section 3 . The well abandonment report must be given— for a well that is plugged and abandoned on or before the rig release day for the geothermal well—with the well completion report for the well; or otherwise—within 6 months after the day the plugging and abandoning of the well is completed in compliance with section 200 of the Act . If the well abandonment report for the geothermal well is given with the well completion report for the well, the well abandonment report need not contain information about the well already included in the well completion report. (sec.23-ssec.1) If a geothermal well in the area of a geothermal tenure is plugged and abandoned, the geothermal tenure holder must give the chief executive a report about the abandonment of the well (a well abandonment report ) containing the information stated in schedule 1 , section 3 . (sec.23-ssec.2) The well abandonment report must be given— for a well that is plugged and abandoned on or before the rig release day for the geothermal well—with the well completion report for the well; or otherwise—within 6 months after the day the plugging and abandoning of the well is completed in compliance with section 200 of the Act . (sec.23-ssec.3) If the well abandonment report for the geothermal well is given with the well completion report for the well, the well abandonment report need not contain information about the well already included in the well completion report.

• (a) for a well that is plugged and abandoned on or before the rig release day for the geothermal well—with the well completion report for the well; or
• (b) otherwise—within 6 months after the day the plugging and abandoning of the well is completed in compliance with section 200 of the Act .

sec.24 Annual resources report

A geothermal tenure holder must, within 60 business days after the last day of each 12-month period of the term of the tenure, give the chief executive a report about geothermal resources for the tenure (an annual resources report ) containing the information stated in schedule 1 , section 4 . However, the requirement to give an annual resources report for a 12-month period of the term of a geothermal tenure does not apply if the tenure ends during the 12-month period. See section 191 of the Act , and section 19 , for the requirements for an end of tenure report. (sec.24-ssec.1) A geothermal tenure holder must, within 60 business days after the last day of each 12-month period of the term of the tenure, give the chief executive a report about geothermal resources for the tenure (an annual resources report ) containing the information stated in schedule 1 , section 4 . (sec.24-ssec.2) However, the requirement to give an annual resources report for a 12-month period of the term of a geothermal tenure does not apply if the tenure ends during the 12-month period. See section 191 of the Act , and section 19 , for the requirements for an end of tenure report.

sec.25 Production report

A geothermal tenure holder must, within 60 business days after the last day of each 6-month period for the tenure, give the chief executive a report for the tenure (a production report ) containing the information stated in schedule 1 , section 5 . In this section— 6-month period , for a geothermal tenure, means a following period during which the tenure is in effect, for all or part of the period— 1 January to 30 June; 1 July to 31 December. (sec.25-ssec.1) A geothermal tenure holder must, within 60 business days after the last day of each 6-month period for the tenure, give the chief executive a report for the tenure (a production report ) containing the information stated in schedule 1 , section 5 . (sec.25-ssec.2) In this section— 6-month period , for a geothermal tenure, means a following period during which the tenure is in effect, for all or part of the period— 1 January to 30 June; 1 July to 31 December.

• (a) 1 January to 30 June;
• (b) 1 July to 31 December.

sec.26 Production testing report

If production testing of a geothermal well is carried out under a geothermal tenure, the geothermal tenure holder must, within 40 business days after the production testing period ends, give the chief executive a report about the production testing during the period (a production testing report ) containing the information stated in schedule 1 , section 6 .

sec.27 Injection report

A geothermal tenure holder must, within 60 business days after the end of each 12-month period of the term of the tenure, give the chief executive a report for the tenure (an injection report ) containing the information stated in schedule 1 , section 7 . However, the requirement to give an injection report for a 12-month period of the term of a geothermal tenure does not apply if the tenure ends during the 12-month period. See section 191 of the Act , and section 19 , for the requirements for an end of tenure report. (sec.27-ssec.1) A geothermal tenure holder must, within 60 business days after the end of each 12-month period of the term of the tenure, give the chief executive a report for the tenure (an injection report ) containing the information stated in schedule 1 , section 7 . (sec.27-ssec.2) However, the requirement to give an injection report for a 12-month period of the term of a geothermal tenure does not apply if the tenure ends during the 12-month period. See section 191 of the Act , and section 19 , for the requirements for an end of tenure report.

sec.28 Injection testing report

If injection testing of a geothermal well is carried out under a geothermal tenure, the geothermal tenure holder must, within 60 business days after the injection testing period ends, give the chief executive a report about the testing during the period (an injection testing report ) containing the information stated in schedule 1 , section 8 .

sec.29 Geophysical survey report

If a geothermal tenure holder carries out a geophysical survey of the tenure, the holder must, within 12 months after the completion day for the survey, give the chief executive a report about the survey (a geophysical survey report ) containing the information stated in schedule 1 , section 9 .

sec.30 Scientific or technical survey report

If a geothermal tenure holder carries out a scientific or technical survey for the tenure, the holder must, within 12 months after the completion day for the survey, give the chief executive a report about the survey (a scientific or technical survey report ) containing the information stated in schedule 1 , section 10 .

sec.31 Hydraulic fracturing activities completion report

If a geothermal tenure holder completes hydraulic fracturing activities in the area of the tenure, the holder must, within 6 months after the completion of the activities, give the chief executive a report about the activities (a hydraulic fracturing activities completion report ) containing the information stated in schedule 1 , section 11 .

Stating amounts in reports

sec.32 How amounts in reports must be stated

For a report mentioned in this part, a measurement of an amount of a thing mentioned in column 1 must be stated by reference to the measurement unit stated in column 2. Column 1 Column 2 injected water tonnes geothermal fluid tonnes separated steam tonnes disposal fluid tonnes energy generation, including electrical and thermal energy generation megawatt hours (MWh) specific enthalpy kilojoule for each kilogram (kJ/kg) geothermal resources—if thermal energy is generated petajoules thermal (PJ th ) geothermal resources—if electrical energy is generated petajoules electrical (PJ e ) Also, if the report includes information about the amount of heat that is generated, the base temperature on which the heat was calculated must be stated. (sec.32-ssec.1) For a report mentioned in this part, a measurement of an amount of a thing mentioned in column 1 must be stated by reference to the measurement unit stated in column 2. Column 1 Column 2 injected water tonnes geothermal fluid tonnes separated steam tonnes disposal fluid tonnes energy generation, including electrical and thermal energy generation megawatt hours (MWh) specific enthalpy kilojoule for each kilogram (kJ/kg) geothermal resources—if thermal energy is generated petajoules thermal (PJ th ) geothermal resources—if electrical energy is generated petajoules electrical (PJ e ) (sec.32-ssec.2) Also, if the report includes information about the amount of heat that is generated, the base temperature on which the heat was calculated must be stated.

Core samples

sec.33 Keeping core sample— Act , s 193

For section 193 (1) of the Act , the following matters are prescribed— a core sample for each geothermal well drilled under the geothermal tenure must be kept; the core sample must be kept until the later of the following— the end of the term of the tenure; or when the sample, or part of the sample, is given to the chief executive under section 194 of the Act ; the core sample must be kept in a way that prevents unnecessary deterioration or loss of the sample. Despite subsection (1) , the geothermal tenure holder is not required to keep a core sample (the new sample ) for a geothermal well drilled under the tenure if, on written application by the holder, the chief executive exempts the holder from having to keep the new sample because— the holder has previously given the chief executive all or part of a core sample (the previous sample ) from the same geothermal well or another geothermal well drilling the same geothermal reservoir; and the new sample has similar properties to the previous sample. (sec.33-ssec.1) For section 193 (1) of the Act , the following matters are prescribed— a core sample for each geothermal well drilled under the geothermal tenure must be kept; the core sample must be kept until the later of the following— the end of the term of the tenure; or when the sample, or part of the sample, is given to the chief executive under section 194 of the Act ; the core sample must be kept in a way that prevents unnecessary deterioration or loss of the sample. (sec.33-ssec.2) Despite subsection (1) , the geothermal tenure holder is not required to keep a core sample (the new sample ) for a geothermal well drilled under the tenure if, on written application by the holder, the chief executive exempts the holder from having to keep the new sample because— the holder has previously given the chief executive all or part of a core sample (the previous sample ) from the same geothermal well or another geothermal well drilling the same geothermal reservoir; and the new sample has similar properties to the previous sample.

• (a) a core sample for each geothermal well drilled under the geothermal tenure must be kept;
• (b) the core sample must be kept until the later of the following— (i) the end of the term of the tenure; or (ii) when the sample, or part of the sample, is given to the chief executive under section 194 of the Act ;
• (i) the end of the term of the tenure; or
• (ii) when the sample, or part of the sample, is given to the chief executive under section 194 of the Act ;
• (c) the core sample must be kept in a way that prevents unnecessary deterioration or loss of the sample.
• (i) the end of the term of the tenure; or
• (ii) when the sample, or part of the sample, is given to the chief executive under section 194 of the Act ;
• (a) the holder has previously given the chief executive all or part of a core sample (the previous sample ) from the same geothermal well or another geothermal well drilling the same geothermal reservoir; and
• (b) the new sample has similar properties to the previous sample.

sec.34 Giving part of core sample— Act , s 194

The part of a core sample kept under section 33 that must be given to the chief executive under section 194 of the Act must— be at least 50% of the core recovered; and have as complete a vertical face as is practicable; and be given in a container suitable for its long-term storage and handling that is labelled with the following information— the identifying name of the geothermal well from which the core was recovered; the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the interval from which the core was recovered; if more than 1 core is recovered from the well—the number of the core; the length in metres of the core recovered.

• (a) be at least 50% of the core recovered; and
• (b) have as complete a vertical face as is practicable; and
• (c) be given in a container suitable for its long-term storage and handling that is labelled with the following information— (i) the identifying name of the geothermal well from which the core was recovered; (ii) the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the interval from which the core was recovered; (iii) if more than 1 core is recovered from the well—the number of the core; (iv) the length in metres of the core recovered.
• (i) the identifying name of the geothermal well from which the core was recovered;
• (ii) the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the interval from which the core was recovered;
• (iii) if more than 1 core is recovered from the well—the number of the core;
• (iv) the length in metres of the core recovered.
• (i) the identifying name of the geothermal well from which the core was recovered;
• (ii) the depth in metres of the top and bottom of the interval from which the core was recovered;
• (iii) if more than 1 core is recovered from the well—the number of the core;
• (iv) the length in metres of the core recovered.

Geothermal wells and shot holes

sec.35 Ways to plug and abandon geothermal wells— Act , s 200

For section 200 (3) (a) of the Act , a geothermal well must be plugged and abandoned in the way stated in schedule 2 .

sec.36 Requirement to plug shot holes

A geothermal tenure holder must ensure that, if a hole is drilled in the area of the tenure for use as a shot hole— as soon as practicable after the hole is no longer required for use as a shot hole— the hole is plugged with solid material; and concrete, rock or soil any area surrounding the hole that has been disturbed by the firing of an explosive is restored as far as is practicable to its original state; and if the hole caves in or collapses after it is plugged as required under paragraph (a) —all subsequent damage caused by the hole caving in or collapsing is remedied. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units. Despite subsection (1) , to the extent that a requirement under the subsection is inconsistent with a relevant environmental condition for the geothermal tenure, the relevant environmental condition prevails. In this section— shot hole means a hole that has been drilled in the area of a geothermal tenure for the purpose of firing an explosive in connection with carrying out a seismic survey. (sec.36-ssec.1) A geothermal tenure holder must ensure that, if a hole is drilled in the area of the tenure for use as a shot hole— as soon as practicable after the hole is no longer required for use as a shot hole— the hole is plugged with solid material; and concrete, rock or soil any area surrounding the hole that has been disturbed by the firing of an explosive is restored as far as is practicable to its original state; and if the hole caves in or collapses after it is plugged as required under paragraph (a) —all subsequent damage caused by the hole caving in or collapsing is remedied. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units. (sec.36-ssec.2) Despite subsection (1) , to the extent that a requirement under the subsection is inconsistent with a relevant environmental condition for the geothermal tenure, the relevant environmental condition prevails. (sec.36-ssec.3) In this section— shot hole means a hole that has been drilled in the area of a geothermal tenure for the purpose of firing an explosive in connection with carrying out a seismic survey.

• (a) as soon as practicable after the hole is no longer required for use as a shot hole— (i) the hole is plugged with solid material; and Example of solid material— concrete, rock or soil (ii) any area surrounding the hole that has been disturbed by the firing of an explosive is restored as far as is practicable to its original state; and
• (i) the hole is plugged with solid material; and Example of solid material— concrete, rock or soil
• (ii) any area surrounding the hole that has been disturbed by the firing of an explosive is restored as far as is practicable to its original state; and
• (b) if the hole caves in or collapses after it is plugged as required under paragraph (a) —all subsequent damage caused by the hole caving in or collapsing is remedied.
• (i) the hole is plugged with solid material; and Example of solid material— concrete, rock or soil
• (ii) any area surrounding the hole that has been disturbed by the firing of an explosive is restored as far as is practicable to its original state; and

Required information—confidentiality period and publication

sec.37 Confidentiality period for required information for geothermal tenures— Act , s 196

For section 196 (2) of the Act , the confidentiality period for the required information mentioned in schedule 3 , column 1— starts on the day the information is given to the chief executive; and ends on the day stated in schedule 3 , column 2 for the information; However, there is no confidentiality period for making a well abandonment report for a geothermal well available to the holder of a petroleum tenure or a coal or oil shale mining tenement under the Mineral Resources Act if the well was drilled within the area of the tenure or tenement. Also, there is no confidentiality period for required information not mentioned in schedule 3 , column 1. s 37 amd 2025 SL No. 48 s 14 sch 1 (sec.37-ssec.1) For section 196 (2) of the Act , the confidentiality period for the required information mentioned in schedule 3 , column 1— starts on the day the information is given to the chief executive; and ends on the day stated in schedule 3 , column 2 for the information; (sec.37-ssec.2) However, there is no confidentiality period for making a well abandonment report for a geothermal well available to the holder of a petroleum tenure or a coal or oil shale mining tenement under the Mineral Resources Act if the well was drilled within the area of the tenure or tenement. (sec.37-ssec.3) Also, there is no confidentiality period for required information not mentioned in schedule 3 , column 1.

• (a) starts on the day the information is given to the chief executive; and
• (b) ends on the day stated in schedule 3 , column 2 for the information;

sec.38 Publication of required information— Act , s 196

For section 196 (1) (a) of the Act , the publication of required information in each of the following ways is prescribed— in a journal published by the department or under the Minister’s authority; in another publication the chief executive considers appropriate; on a Queensland Government website; in a publicly available database; for spatial data—by making it available to the public for inspection or purchase; in digital form; providing the information on a universal serial bus (commonly known as a ‘usb’) by displaying it on a notice that is available to the public for inspection at— the department’s head office; or another place the chief executive considers appropriate; by telling it to another person or presenting it to the person in a visual form. In this section— Queensland Government website means a website with a URL that contains ‘qld.gov.au’, other than the website of a local government. (sec.38-ssec.1) For section 196 (1) (a) of the Act , the publication of required information in each of the following ways is prescribed— in a journal published by the department or under the Minister’s authority; in another publication the chief executive considers appropriate; on a Queensland Government website; in a publicly available database; for spatial data—by making it available to the public for inspection or purchase; in digital form; providing the information on a universal serial bus (commonly known as a ‘usb’) by displaying it on a notice that is available to the public for inspection at— the department’s head office; or another place the chief executive considers appropriate; by telling it to another person or presenting it to the person in a visual form. (sec.38-ssec.2) In this section— Queensland Government website means a website with a URL that contains ‘qld.gov.au’, other than the website of a local government.

• (a) in a journal published by the department or under the Minister’s authority;
• (b) in another publication the chief executive considers appropriate;
• (c) on a Queensland Government website;
• (d) in a publicly available database;
• (e) for spatial data—by making it available to the public for inspection or purchase;
• (f) in digital form; Example— providing the information on a universal serial bus (commonly known as a ‘usb’)
• (g) by displaying it on a notice that is available to the public for inspection at— (i) the department’s head office; or (ii) another place the chief executive considers appropriate;
• (i) the department’s head office; or
• (ii) another place the chief executive considers appropriate;
• (h) by telling it to another person or presenting it to the person in a visual form.
• (i) the department’s head office; or
• (ii) another place the chief executive considers appropriate;

Geothermal royalty

Preliminary

sec.39 Disapplication of part

This part does not apply to a geothermal producer in relation to geothermal energy produced by or for the geothermal producer before 1 July 2030.

sec.40 Definitions for part

In this part— component , of the wellhead value of geothermal energy produced by or for a geothermal producer in a royalty return period, means— an element used to work out the projected amount under section 43 (1) (a) for the geothermal energy; or an expense, or an amount contributing to an expense, mentioned in section 41 (1) (a) , (c) or (d) , for the geothermal energy. geothermal royalty decision see section 45 (1) . operating expenses , for geothermal energy produced by or for a geothermal producer in a royalty return period, see section 41 . royalty return period means each of the following 3-month periods in a year— 1 January to 31 March; 1 April to 30 June; 1 July to 30 September; 1 October to 31 December. wellhead value , of geothermal energy produced by or for a geothermal producer in a royalty return period, means the wellhead value worked out for the geothermal energy under section 43 for the period.

• (a) an element used to work out the projected amount under section 43 (1) (a) for the geothermal energy; or
• (b) an expense, or an amount contributing to an expense, mentioned in section 41 (1) (a) , (c) or (d) , for the geothermal energy.
• (a) 1 January to 31 March;
• (b) 1 April to 30 June;
• (c) 1 July to 30 September;
• (d) 1 October to 31 December.

sec.41 Meaning of operating expenses

The operating expenses , for geothermal energy produced by or for a geothermal producer in a royalty return period, means each of the following— a toll, tariff or other charge paid or payable by the geothermal producer to a third party for producing the geothermal energy during the royalty return period if the charges are worked out— on a commercial basis; or if the Minister believes another basis for working out the charges is a more practical basis—on the other basis; depreciation of capital costs on an operating plant or pipeline owned by the geothermal producer and used for producing the geothermal energy or transporting it from the wellhead of the geothermal well in which it was produced to the point of its disposal, allocated over— 10 years; or if the Minister believes a shorter period is appropriate having regard to the expected potential for geothermal production from the well in which the geothermal energy was produced—the shorter period decided by the Minister; an operating cost incurred, or to be incurred, by the geothermal producer that relates directly to— treating, processing or refining the geothermal energy; or transporting the geothermal energy to the point of its disposal; catering, accommodation and travel costs for personnel communication costs consumable stores used at the site at which the energy is produced costs associated with transporting the geothermal energy, including a reasonable share of road maintenance and repairs, motor vehicle costs, wharfage and harbour fees geothermal energy storage costs geothermal tenure rents personnel wages and salaries repairs and maintenance of, and insurance costs for, operating plant and pipelines used to produce geothermal energy or transporting it from the wellhead to the point of its disposal another expense incurred, or to be incurred, by the geothermal producer in relation to the operation of the site at which the geothermal energy was produced that is approved by the Minister for the purpose of this section. However, expenses are not operating expenses under subsection (1) if the expenses are any of the following— an expense incurred by the geothermal producer in producing the geothermal energy; lifting costs office overhead costs for an office that is not located in the area of the geothermal tenure or at the site at which geothermal energy is produced; marketing costs for producing geothermal energy; Commonwealth excise levies; a civil penalty, or interest on an amount, payable by the geothermal producer under the Act . (sec.41-ssec.1) The operating expenses , for geothermal energy produced by or for a geothermal producer in a royalty return period, means each of the following— a toll, tariff or other charge paid or payable by the geothermal producer to a third party for producing the geothermal energy during the royalty return period if the charges are worked out— on a commercial basis; or if the Minister believes another basis for working out the charges is a more practical basis—on the other basis; depreciation of capital costs on an operating plant or pipeline owned by the geothermal producer and used for producing the geothermal energy or transporting it from the wellhead of the geothermal well in which it was produced to the point of its disposal, allocated over— 10 years; or if the Minister believes a shorter period is appropriate having regard to the expected potential for geothermal production from the well in which the geothermal energy was produced—the shorter period decided by the Minister; an operating cost incurred, or to be incurred, by the geothermal producer that relates directly to— treating, processing or refining the geothermal energy; or transporting the geothermal energy to the point of its disposal; catering, accommodation and travel costs for personnel communication costs consumable stores used at the site at which the energy is produced costs associated with transporting the geothermal energy, including a reasonable share of road maintenance and repairs, motor vehicle costs, wharfage and harbour fees geothermal energy storage costs geothermal tenure rents personnel wages and salaries repairs and maintenance of, and insurance costs for, operating plant and pipelines used to produce geothermal energy or transporting it from the wellhead to the point of its disposal another expense incurred, or to be incurred, by the geothermal producer in relation to the operation of the site at which the geothermal energy was produced that is approved by the Minister for the purpose of this section. (sec.41-ssec.2) However, expenses are not operating expenses under subsection (1) if the expenses are any of the following— an expense incurred by the geothermal producer in producing the geothermal energy; lifting costs office overhead costs for an office that is not located in the area of the geothermal tenure or at the site at which geothermal energy is produced; marketing costs for producing geothermal energy; Commonwealth excise levies; a civil penalty, or interest on an amount, payable by the geothermal producer under the Act .

• (a) a toll, tariff or other charge paid or payable by the geothermal producer to a third party for producing the geothermal energy during the royalty return period if the charges are worked out— (i) on a commercial basis; or (ii) if the Minister believes another basis for working out the charges is a more practical basis—on the other basis;
• (i) on a commercial basis; or
• (ii) if the Minister believes another basis for working out the charges is a more practical basis—on the other basis;
• (b) depreciation of capital costs on an operating plant or pipeline owned by the geothermal producer and used for producing the geothermal energy or transporting it from the wellhead of the geothermal well in which it was produced to the point of its disposal, allocated over— (i) 10 years; or (ii) if the Minister believes a shorter period is appropriate having regard to the expected potential for geothermal production from the well in which the geothermal energy was produced—the shorter period decided by the Minister;
• (i) 10 years; or
• (ii) if the Minister believes a shorter period is appropriate having regard to the expected potential for geothermal production from the well in which the geothermal energy was produced—the shorter period decided by the Minister;
• (c) an operating cost incurred, or to be incurred, by the geothermal producer that relates directly to— (i) treating, processing or refining the geothermal energy; or (ii) transporting the geothermal energy to the point of its disposal; Examples of operating costs that may be directly related to treating, processing, refining or transporting geothermal energy— • catering, accommodation and travel costs for personnel • communication costs • consumable stores used at the site at which the energy is produced • costs associated with transporting the geothermal energy, including a reasonable share of road maintenance and repairs, motor vehicle costs, wharfage and harbour fees • geothermal energy storage costs • geothermal tenure rents • personnel wages and salaries • repairs and maintenance of, and insurance costs for, operating plant and pipelines used to produce geothermal energy or transporting it from the wellhead to the point of its disposal
• (i) treating, processing or refining the geothermal energy; or
• (ii) transporting the geothermal energy to the point of its disposal; Examples of operating costs that may be directly related to treating, processing, refining or transporting geothermal energy— • catering, accommodation and travel costs for personnel • communication costs • consumable stores used at the site at which the energy is produced • costs associated with transporting the geothermal energy, including a reasonable share of road maintenance and repairs, motor vehicle costs, wharfage and harbour fees • geothermal energy storage costs • geothermal tenure rents • personnel wages and salaries • repairs and maintenance of, and insurance costs for, operating plant and pipelines used to produce geothermal energy or transporting it from the wellhead to the point of its disposal
• • catering, accommodation and travel costs for personnel
• • communication costs
• • consumable stores used at the site at which the energy is produced
• • costs associated with transporting the geothermal energy, including a reasonable share of road maintenance and repairs, motor vehicle costs, wharfage and harbour fees
• • geothermal energy storage costs
• • geothermal tenure rents
• • personnel wages and salaries
• • repairs and maintenance of, and insurance costs for, operating plant and pipelines used to produce geothermal energy or transporting it from the wellhead to the point of its disposal
• (d) another expense incurred, or to be incurred, by the geothermal producer in relation to the operation of the site at which the geothermal energy was produced that is approved by the Minister for the purpose of this section.
• (i) on a commercial basis; or
• (ii) if the Minister believes another basis for working out the charges is a more practical basis—on the other basis;
• (i) 10 years; or
• (ii) if the Minister believes a shorter period is appropriate having regard to the expected potential for geothermal production from the well in which the geothermal energy was produced—the shorter period decided by the Minister;
• (i) treating, processing or refining the geothermal energy; or
• (ii) transporting the geothermal energy to the point of its disposal; Examples of operating costs that may be directly related to treating, processing, refining or transporting geothermal energy— • catering, accommodation and travel costs for personnel • communication costs • consumable stores used at the site at which the energy is produced • costs associated with transporting the geothermal energy, including a reasonable share of road maintenance and repairs, motor vehicle costs, wharfage and harbour fees • geothermal energy storage costs • geothermal tenure rents • personnel wages and salaries • repairs and maintenance of, and insurance costs for, operating plant and pipelines used to produce geothermal energy or transporting it from the wellhead to the point of its disposal
• • catering, accommodation and travel costs for personnel
• • communication costs
• • consumable stores used at the site at which the energy is produced
• • costs associated with transporting the geothermal energy, including a reasonable share of road maintenance and repairs, motor vehicle costs, wharfage and harbour fees
• • geothermal energy storage costs
• • geothermal tenure rents
• • personnel wages and salaries
• • repairs and maintenance of, and insurance costs for, operating plant and pipelines used to produce geothermal energy or transporting it from the wellhead to the point of its disposal
• • catering, accommodation and travel costs for personnel
• • communication costs
• • consumable stores used at the site at which the energy is produced
• • costs associated with transporting the geothermal energy, including a reasonable share of road maintenance and repairs, motor vehicle costs, wharfage and harbour fees
• • geothermal energy storage costs
• • geothermal tenure rents
• • personnel wages and salaries
• • repairs and maintenance of, and insurance costs for, operating plant and pipelines used to produce geothermal energy or transporting it from the wellhead to the point of its disposal
• (a) an expense incurred by the geothermal producer in producing the geothermal energy; Example for paragraph (a) — lifting costs
• (b) office overhead costs for an office that is not located in the area of the geothermal tenure or at the site at which geothermal energy is produced;
• (c) marketing costs for producing geothermal energy;
• (d) Commonwealth excise levies;
• (e) a civil penalty, or interest on an amount, payable by the geothermal producer under the Act .

Working out geothermal royalty

sec.42 Geothermal royalty rate—Act s, 105

For section 105 (b) of the Act , the rate of geothermal royalty payable by a geothermal producer for a royalty return period is 2.5% of the wellhead value of all geothermal energy produced by or for the geothermal producer in the period.

sec.43 Working out wellhead value of geothermal energy

The wellhead value of geothermal energy produced by or for a geothermal producer in a royalty return period is— the amount the geothermal producer could reasonably expect to realise if the geothermal energy were sold on a commercial basis (the projected amount ); less the sum of the following for the period— the operating expenses for the geothermal energy; any negative wellhead value deductable under subsection (2) . If, for a royalty return period, the operating expenses are more than the projected amount— the amount of the excess is a negative wellhead value for the royalty return period; and the negative wellhead value may be deducted under subsection (1) (b) (ii) in a later royalty return period in the same year. To remove any doubt, it is declared that a geothermal producer is not entitled to receive any payment in relation to a negative wellhead value. (sec.43-ssec.1) The wellhead value of geothermal energy produced by or for a geothermal producer in a royalty return period is— the amount the geothermal producer could reasonably expect to realise if the geothermal energy were sold on a commercial basis (the projected amount ); less the sum of the following for the period— the operating expenses for the geothermal energy; any negative wellhead value deductable under subsection (2) . (sec.43-ssec.2) If, for a royalty return period, the operating expenses are more than the projected amount— the amount of the excess is a negative wellhead value for the royalty return period; and the negative wellhead value may be deducted under subsection (1) (b) (ii) in a later royalty return period in the same year. (sec.43-ssec.3) To remove any doubt, it is declared that a geothermal producer is not entitled to receive any payment in relation to a negative wellhead value.

• (a) the amount the geothermal producer could reasonably expect to realise if the geothermal energy were sold on a commercial basis (the projected amount ); less
• (b) the sum of the following for the period— (i) the operating expenses for the geothermal energy; (ii) any negative wellhead value deductable under subsection (2) .
• (i) the operating expenses for the geothermal energy;
• (ii) any negative wellhead value deductable under subsection (2) .
• (i) the operating expenses for the geothermal energy;
• (ii) any negative wellhead value deductable under subsection (2) .
• (a) the amount of the excess is a negative wellhead value for the royalty return period; and
• (b) the negative wellhead value may be deducted under subsection (1) (b) (ii) in a later royalty return period in the same year.

sec.44 Minister may request information or geothermal royalty decision in particular circumstances

This section applies if the Minister reasonably believes, in particular circumstances, that for working out the wellhead value of geothermal energy produced by or for a geothermal producer in a royalty return period— the projected amount under section 43 (1) (a) is less than the market value of the geothermal energy; or the operating expenses for the geothermal energy are more than the expenses that would reasonably be incurred in the circumstances. Without limiting subsection (1) , the Minister may form the reasonable belief because of any of the following circumstances— the geothermal energy is used in a power station owned by the geothermal producer; the geothermal energy is acquired by an associated entity or related party of the geothermal producer; an expense was paid or payable to an associated entity or related party of the geothermal producer. The Minister may ask the geothermal producer— to give the Minister information or documents that support that 1 or more components of the wellhead value are based on arms-length transactions at market value; or to apply to the Minister under section 45 for a geothermal royalty decision. The geothermal producer must comply with the Minister’s request made under subsection (3) within— 40 business days after the request is made; or if the Minister has, within the 40 business days, agreed to a longer period—the longer period. The Minister may ask the geothermal producer for additional information or documents about a transaction if— the Minister made a request under subsection (3) (a) ; and the geothermal producer complied with the request as required under subsection (4) . Subsection (7) applies if— the geothermal producer does not comply with a request made under subsection (3) or (5) ; or for a request made under subsection (3) (a) , the geothermal producer— complies with the request; but the information or documents do not satisfy the Minister that 1 or more components of the wellhead value are based on arms-length transactions at market value. The Minister may make a geothermal royalty decision for 1 or more components of the wellhead value as if the geothermal producer had made an application for a geothermal royalty decision under section 45 . In this section— associated entity , of a geothermal producer, means an entity that, within the meaning of the Corporations Act , section 50AAA , is an associated entity of the geothermal producer. related party , of a geothermal producer, means an entity that, within the meaning of the Corporations Act , section 228 , is a related party of the geothermal producer. (sec.44-ssec.1) This section applies if the Minister reasonably believes, in particular circumstances, that for working out the wellhead value of geothermal energy produced by or for a geothermal producer in a royalty return period— the projected amount under section 43 (1) (a) is less than the market value of the geothermal energy; or the operating expenses for the geothermal energy are more than the expenses that would reasonably be incurred in the circumstances. (sec.44-ssec.2) Without limiting subsection (1) , the Minister may form the reasonable belief because of any of the following circumstances— the geothermal energy is used in a power station owned by the geothermal producer; the geothermal energy is acquired by an associated entity or related party of the geothermal producer; an expense was paid or payable to an associated entity or related party of the geothermal producer. (sec.44-ssec.3) The Minister may ask the geothermal producer— to give the Minister information or documents that support that 1 or more components of the wellhead value are based on arms-length transactions at market value; or to apply to the Minister under section 45 for a geothermal royalty decision. (sec.44-ssec.4) The geothermal producer must comply with the Minister’s request made under subsection (3) within— 40 business days after the request is made; or if the Minister has, within the 40 business days, agreed to a longer period—the longer period. (sec.44-ssec.5) The Minister may ask the geothermal producer for additional information or documents about a transaction if— the Minister made a request under subsection (3) (a) ; and the geothermal producer complied with the request as required under subsection (4) . (sec.44-ssec.6) Subsection (7) applies if— the geothermal producer does not comply with a request made under subsection (3) or (5) ; or for a request made under subsection (3) (a) , the geothermal producer— complies with the request; but the information or documents do not satisfy the Minister that 1 or more components of the wellhead value are based on arms-length transactions at market value. (sec.44-ssec.7) The Minister may make a geothermal royalty decision for 1 or more components of the wellhead value as if the geothermal producer had made an application for a geothermal royalty decision under section 45 . (sec.44-ssec.8) In this section— associated entity , of a geothermal producer, means an entity that, within the meaning of the Corporations Act , section 50AAA , is an associated entity of the geothermal producer. related party , of a geothermal producer, means an entity that, within the meaning of the Corporations Act , section 228 , is a related party of the geothermal producer.

• (a) the projected amount under section 43 (1) (a) is less than the market value of the geothermal energy; or
• (b) the operating expenses for the geothermal energy are more than the expenses that would reasonably be incurred in the circumstances.
• (a) the geothermal energy is used in a power station owned by the geothermal producer;
• (b) the geothermal energy is acquired by an associated entity or related party of the geothermal producer;
• (c) an expense was paid or payable to an associated entity or related party of the geothermal producer.
• (a) to give the Minister information or documents that support that 1 or more components of the wellhead value are based on arms-length transactions at market value; or
• (b) to apply to the Minister under section 45 for a geothermal royalty decision.
• (a) 40 business days after the request is made; or
• (b) if the Minister has, within the 40 business days, agreed to a longer period—the longer period.
• (a) the Minister made a request under subsection (3) (a) ; and
• (b) the geothermal producer complied with the request as required under subsection (4) .
• (a) the geothermal producer does not comply with a request made under subsection (3) or (5) ; or
• (b) for a request made under subsection (3) (a) , the geothermal producer— (i) complies with the request; but (ii) the information or documents do not satisfy the Minister that 1 or more components of the wellhead value are based on arms-length transactions at market value.
• (i) complies with the request; but
• (ii) the information or documents do not satisfy the Minister that 1 or more components of the wellhead value are based on arms-length transactions at market value.
• (i) complies with the request; but
• (ii) the information or documents do not satisfy the Minister that 1 or more components of the wellhead value are based on arms-length transactions at market value.

sec.45 Geothermal producer may apply for geothermal royalty decision

A geothermal producer may apply to the Minister for a decision (a geothermal royalty decision ) about how 1 or more components of the wellhead value of geothermal energy produced by or for the geothermal producer in a royalty return period must be worked out for a particular transaction or particular period. The application must be made— before the geothermal energy is produced; or before, or as soon as practicable after, a material change of circumstances that may affect whether the components mentioned in subsection (1) are based on an arms-length transaction at market value. The application must— be in writing; and be given to the chief executive at the office of the department stated on the department’s website; and state why the geothermal producer is seeking the geothermal royalty decision; and include a statement about how the geothermal producer proposes the components mentioned in subsection (1) should be worked out for the particular transaction or particular period; and a fixed value with adjustments in particular circumstances a formula for deciding the market value include a statement about each of the following— the proposed period for which the geothermal royalty decision will apply; whether or not the geothermal royalty decision is to be reviewed; if the geothermal producer proposes that the geothermal royalty decision be reviewed—when the decision is to be reviewed. (sec.45-ssec.1) A geothermal producer may apply to the Minister for a decision (a geothermal royalty decision ) about how 1 or more components of the wellhead value of geothermal energy produced by or for the geothermal producer in a royalty return period must be worked out for a particular transaction or particular period. (sec.45-ssec.2) The application must be made— before the geothermal energy is produced; or before, or as soon as practicable after, a material change of circumstances that may affect whether the components mentioned in subsection (1) are based on an arms-length transaction at market value. (sec.45-ssec.3) The application must— be in writing; and be given to the chief executive at the office of the department stated on the department’s website; and state why the geothermal producer is seeking the geothermal royalty decision; and include a statement about how the geothermal producer proposes the components mentioned in subsection (1) should be worked out for the particular transaction or particular period; and a fixed value with adjustments in particular circumstances a formula for deciding the market value include a statement about each of the following— the proposed period for which the geothermal royalty decision will apply; whether or not the geothermal royalty decision is to be reviewed; if the geothermal producer proposes that the geothermal royalty decision be reviewed—when the decision is to be reviewed.

• (a) before the geothermal energy is produced; or
• (b) before, or as soon as practicable after, a material change of circumstances that may affect whether the components mentioned in subsection (1) are based on an arms-length transaction at market value.
• (a) be in writing; and
• (b) be given to the chief executive at the office of the department stated on the department’s website; and
• (c) state why the geothermal producer is seeking the geothermal royalty decision; and
• (d) include a statement about how the geothermal producer proposes the components mentioned in subsection (1) should be worked out for the particular transaction or particular period; and Examples— • a fixed value with adjustments in particular circumstances • a formula for deciding the market value
• • a fixed value with adjustments in particular circumstances
• • a formula for deciding the market value
• (e) include a statement about each of the following— (i) the proposed period for which the geothermal royalty decision will apply; (ii) whether or not the geothermal royalty decision is to be reviewed; (iii) if the geothermal producer proposes that the geothermal royalty decision be reviewed—when the decision is to be reviewed.
• (i) the proposed period for which the geothermal royalty decision will apply;
• (ii) whether or not the geothermal royalty decision is to be reviewed;
• (iii) if the geothermal producer proposes that the geothermal royalty decision be reviewed—when the decision is to be reviewed.
• • a fixed value with adjustments in particular circumstances
• • a formula for deciding the market value
• (i) the proposed period for which the geothermal royalty decision will apply;
• (ii) whether or not the geothermal royalty decision is to be reviewed;
• (iii) if the geothermal producer proposes that the geothermal royalty decision be reviewed—when the decision is to be reviewed.

sec.46 Deciding application for geothermal royalty decision

The Minister must make a geothermal royalty decision for an application made under section 45 . The geothermal royalty decision may state— a method or formula— for deciding the market value of the geothermal energy; or for working out a particular toll, tariff or other charge paid or payable by the geothermal producer; or for adjusting the market value of the geothermal energy or the tolls, tariffs or other charges in particular circumstances; or for working out any other component of the wellhead value of the geothermal energy; and the period for which the geothermal royalty decision applies; and if applicable—when the geothermal royalty decision is to be reviewed. In making the geothermal royalty decision, the Minister may consider the following matters— the amount received for geothermal energy sold in similar circumstances; how the value of the geothermal energy can be adjusted to reflect changes to the market value of geothermal energy; the expenses likely to be incurred by the geothermal producer in arms-length transactions at market value; the period for which the geothermal royalty decision, or aspects of the decision, will apply; the need for any future adjustment of the geothermal royalty decision or aspects of the decision; any submissions made to the Minister by the geothermal producer in relation to a component of the wellhead value of the geothermal energy; any other matter the Minister considers relevant. The Minister must give the geothermal producer written notice of the geothermal royalty decision and the reasons for the decision. (sec.46-ssec.1) The Minister must make a geothermal royalty decision for an application made under section 45 . (sec.46-ssec.2) The geothermal royalty decision may state— a method or formula— for deciding the market value of the geothermal energy; or for working out a particular toll, tariff or other charge paid or payable by the geothermal producer; or for adjusting the market value of the geothermal energy or the tolls, tariffs or other charges in particular circumstances; or for working out any other component of the wellhead value of the geothermal energy; and the period for which the geothermal royalty decision applies; and if applicable—when the geothermal royalty decision is to be reviewed. (sec.46-ssec.3) In making the geothermal royalty decision, the Minister may consider the following matters— the amount received for geothermal energy sold in similar circumstances; how the value of the geothermal energy can be adjusted to reflect changes to the market value of geothermal energy; the expenses likely to be incurred by the geothermal producer in arms-length transactions at market value; the period for which the geothermal royalty decision, or aspects of the decision, will apply; the need for any future adjustment of the geothermal royalty decision or aspects of the decision; any submissions made to the Minister by the geothermal producer in relation to a component of the wellhead value of the geothermal energy; any other matter the Minister considers relevant. (sec.46-ssec.4) The Minister must give the geothermal producer written notice of the geothermal royalty decision and the reasons for the decision.

• (a) a method or formula— (i) for deciding the market value of the geothermal energy; or (ii) for working out a particular toll, tariff or other charge paid or payable by the geothermal producer; or (iii) for adjusting the market value of the geothermal energy or the tolls, tariffs or other charges in particular circumstances; or (iv) for working out any other component of the wellhead value of the geothermal energy; and
• (i) for deciding the market value of the geothermal energy; or
• (ii) for working out a particular toll, tariff or other charge paid or payable by the geothermal producer; or
• (iii) for adjusting the market value of the geothermal energy or the tolls, tariffs or other charges in particular circumstances; or
• (iv) for working out any other component of the wellhead value of the geothermal energy; and
• (b) the period for which the geothermal royalty decision applies; and
• (c) if applicable—when the geothermal royalty decision is to be reviewed.
• (i) for deciding the market value of the geothermal energy; or
• (ii) for working out a particular toll, tariff or other charge paid or payable by the geothermal producer; or
• (iii) for adjusting the market value of the geothermal energy or the tolls, tariffs or other charges in particular circumstances; or
• (iv) for working out any other component of the wellhead value of the geothermal energy; and
• (a) the amount received for geothermal energy sold in similar circumstances;
• (b) how the value of the geothermal energy can be adjusted to reflect changes to the market value of geothermal energy;
• (c) the expenses likely to be incurred by the geothermal producer in arms-length transactions at market value;
• (d) the period for which the geothermal royalty decision, or aspects of the decision, will apply;
• (e) the need for any future adjustment of the geothermal royalty decision or aspects of the decision;
• (f) any submissions made to the Minister by the geothermal producer in relation to a component of the wellhead value of the geothermal energy;
• (g) any other matter the Minister considers relevant.

sec.47 Minister may amend geothermal royalty decision

The Minister may amend a geothermal royalty decision applying to a geothermal producer if there has been a material change of circumstances since the making of the decision. If the Minister proposes to amend a geothermal royalty decision applying to a geothermal producer on the Minister’s own initiative, the Minister must— give the geothermal producer notice of the proposed change at least 60 business days before the first day of the next royalty return period to which the proposed amended royalty decision would apply; and invite the geothermal producer to make submissions about the proposed amendment within 30 business days (the submission period ) after giving the notice. In amending a geothermal royalty decision applying to a geothermal producer, the Minister— must consider any submissions made by the geothermal producer in the submission period; and may consider the matters stated in section 46 (3) (a) to (e) and (g) . If the Minister amends the geothermal royalty decision, the Minister must give the geothermal producer written notice of the decision and the reasons for the decision. The amended geothermal royalty decision must state the period to which the decision applies. (sec.47-ssec.1) The Minister may amend a geothermal royalty decision applying to a geothermal producer if there has been a material change of circumstances since the making of the decision. (sec.47-ssec.2) If the Minister proposes to amend a geothermal royalty decision applying to a geothermal producer on the Minister’s own initiative, the Minister must— give the geothermal producer notice of the proposed change at least 60 business days before the first day of the next royalty return period to which the proposed amended royalty decision would apply; and invite the geothermal producer to make submissions about the proposed amendment within 30 business days (the submission period ) after giving the notice. (sec.47-ssec.3) In amending a geothermal royalty decision applying to a geothermal producer, the Minister— must consider any submissions made by the geothermal producer in the submission period; and may consider the matters stated in section 46 (3) (a) to (e) and (g) . (sec.47-ssec.4) If the Minister amends the geothermal royalty decision, the Minister must give the geothermal producer written notice of the decision and the reasons for the decision. (sec.47-ssec.5) The amended geothermal royalty decision must state the period to which the decision applies.

• (a) give the geothermal producer notice of the proposed change at least 60 business days before the first day of the next royalty return period to which the proposed amended royalty decision would apply; and
• (b) invite the geothermal producer to make submissions about the proposed amendment within 30 business days (the submission period ) after giving the notice.
• (a) must consider any submissions made by the geothermal producer in the submission period; and
• (b) may consider the matters stated in section 46 (3) (a) to (e) and (g) .

sec.48 Geothermal producer may apply for amendment of geothermal royalty decision

A geothermal producer may apply to the Minister to amend a geothermal royalty decision. The geothermal producer’s application must be made at least 60 business days before the first day of the royalty return period to which the proposed amended geothermal royalty decision would apply. Sections 45 (3) and 46 apply to the application as if the reference in the provisions to the geothermal royalty decision were a reference to an amendment of the geothermal royalty decision. (sec.48-ssec.1) A geothermal producer may apply to the Minister to amend a geothermal royalty decision. (sec.48-ssec.2) The geothermal producer’s application must be made at least 60 business days before the first day of the royalty return period to which the proposed amended geothermal royalty decision would apply. (sec.48-ssec.3) Sections 45 (3) and 46 apply to the application as if the reference in the provisions to the geothermal royalty decision were a reference to an amendment of the geothermal royalty decision.

Miscellaneous provisions

sec.49 Way for making or giving an application, document or submission— Act , s 363

For section 363 (2) (b) of the Act , the prescribed way is using the online system on the department’s website. However, if a person makes or gives an application, document or submission as mentioned in subsection (1) , the chief executive may, by notice given to the person, require the person to also lodge a hard copy of the application, document or submission at the place mentioned in section 363 (2) (a) of the Act . If a person makes or gives an application, document or submission as mentioned in subsection (1) after 4.30p.m. on a business day and before 8.30a.m. on the next business day (the later day ), the application, document or submission is taken to have been made or given at 8.30a.m. on the later day. (sec.49-ssec.1) For section 363 (2) (b) of the Act , the prescribed way is using the online system on the department’s website. (sec.49-ssec.2) However, if a person makes or gives an application, document or submission as mentioned in subsection (1) , the chief executive may, by notice given to the person, require the person to also lodge a hard copy of the application, document or submission at the place mentioned in section 363 (2) (a) of the Act . (sec.49-ssec.3) If a person makes or gives an application, document or submission as mentioned in subsection (1) after 4.30p.m. on a business day and before 8.30a.m. on the next business day (the later day ), the application, document or submission is taken to have been made or given at 8.30a.m. on the later day.

sec.50 Annual rent— Act , s 130

For section 130 (1) of the Act , the annual rent payable for each geothermal tenure is stated in schedule 4 . For section 130 (2) of the Act , the annual rent, or a pro-rata amount of the annual rent if the period to which the rent relates is less than a year, must be paid on or before— on the grant of the geothermal tenure, if the Minister has not already required payment of the rent—the 20th business day after the tenure takes effect; or otherwise—31 August each year. If the annual rent is paid for a year and the geothermal tenure ends during the year, the proportion of the rent that relates to the remainder of the year may be refunded. (sec.50-ssec.1) For section 130 (1) of the Act , the annual rent payable for each geothermal tenure is stated in schedule 4 . (sec.50-ssec.2) For section 130 (2) of the Act , the annual rent, or a pro-rata amount of the annual rent if the period to which the rent relates is less than a year, must be paid on or before— on the grant of the geothermal tenure, if the Minister has not already required payment of the rent—the 20th business day after the tenure takes effect; or otherwise—31 August each year. (sec.50-ssec.3) If the annual rent is paid for a year and the geothermal tenure ends during the year, the proportion of the rent that relates to the remainder of the year may be refunded.

• (a) on the grant of the geothermal tenure, if the Minister has not already required payment of the rent—the 20th business day after the tenure takes effect; or
• (b) otherwise—31 August each year.

sec.51 Security for geothermal tenure— Act , s 204

For section 204 (2) (a) of the Act , the following forms of security are prescribed— cash, including an electronic funds transfer of cash; an unconditional security issued by a financial institution that— is in favour of the ‘State of Queensland’ and is payable on demand; and has no expiry date; and states the type and number of the geothermal tenure or proposed geothermal tenure; and states the address of the financial institution; and is signed by an officer of the financial institution who has authority to sign the security; a combination of the forms mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) . For section 204 (2) (b) of the Act , the following amounts are prescribed— for a geothermal permit or proposed geothermal permit—$14,748; for a geothermal lease or proposed geothermal lease—$43,017. (sec.51-ssec.1) For section 204 (2) (a) of the Act , the following forms of security are prescribed— cash, including an electronic funds transfer of cash; an unconditional security issued by a financial institution that— is in favour of the ‘State of Queensland’ and is payable on demand; and has no expiry date; and states the type and number of the geothermal tenure or proposed geothermal tenure; and states the address of the financial institution; and is signed by an officer of the financial institution who has authority to sign the security; a combination of the forms mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) . (sec.51-ssec.2) For section 204 (2) (b) of the Act , the following amounts are prescribed— for a geothermal permit or proposed geothermal permit—$14,748; for a geothermal lease or proposed geothermal lease—$43,017.

• (a) cash, including an electronic funds transfer of cash;
• (b) an unconditional security issued by a financial institution that— (i) is in favour of the ‘State of Queensland’ and is payable on demand; and (ii) has no expiry date; and (iii) states the type and number of the geothermal tenure or proposed geothermal tenure; and (iv) states the address of the financial institution; and (v) is signed by an officer of the financial institution who has authority to sign the security;
• (i) is in favour of the ‘State of Queensland’ and is payable on demand; and
• (ii) has no expiry date; and
• (iii) states the type and number of the geothermal tenure or proposed geothermal tenure; and
• (iv) states the address of the financial institution; and
• (v) is signed by an officer of the financial institution who has authority to sign the security;
• (c) a combination of the forms mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) .
• (i) is in favour of the ‘State of Queensland’ and is payable on demand; and
• (ii) has no expiry date; and
• (iii) states the type and number of the geothermal tenure or proposed geothermal tenure; and
• (iv) states the address of the financial institution; and
• (v) is signed by an officer of the financial institution who has authority to sign the security;
• (a) for a geothermal permit or proposed geothermal permit—$14,748;
• (b) for a geothermal lease or proposed geothermal lease—$43,017.

sec.52 Prescribed interest on amounts owing to the State— Act , s 372

For section 372 (2) of the Act , the rate of interest is 15% a year.

sec.53 Fees

The fees payable under the Act are stated in schedule 5 .

Transitional provisions

sec.54 Definition for part

In this part— expired regulation means the expired Geothermal Energy Regulation 2012 .

sec.55 Existing requirement to give a notice, report or information

This section applies if— before the commencement— a person was required to give the chief executive a notice, report or information under the Act ; and the expired regulation, part 3 or 4, prescribed matters for the notice, report or information, including, for example, the requirement to give the notice, report or information; and immediately before the commencement, the period within which the notice, report or information was required to be given had not ended. The expired regulation continues to apply in relation to the requirement to give the notice, report or information as if this regulation had not been made. In this section— information includes documents, records and samples. (sec.55-ssec.1) This section applies if— before the commencement— a person was required to give the chief executive a notice, report or information under the Act ; and the expired regulation, part 3 or 4, prescribed matters for the notice, report or information, including, for example, the requirement to give the notice, report or information; and immediately before the commencement, the period within which the notice, report or information was required to be given had not ended. (sec.55-ssec.2) The expired regulation continues to apply in relation to the requirement to give the notice, report or information as if this regulation had not been made. (sec.55-ssec.3) In this section— information includes documents, records and samples.

• (a) before the commencement— (i) a person was required to give the chief executive a notice, report or information under the Act ; and (ii) the expired regulation, part 3 or 4, prescribed matters for the notice, report or information, including, for example, the requirement to give the notice, report or information; and
• (i) a person was required to give the chief executive a notice, report or information under the Act ; and
• (ii) the expired regulation, part 3 or 4, prescribed matters for the notice, report or information, including, for example, the requirement to give the notice, report or information; and
• (b) immediately before the commencement, the period within which the notice, report or information was required to be given had not ended.
• (i) a person was required to give the chief executive a notice, report or information under the Act ; and
• (ii) the expired regulation, part 3 or 4, prescribed matters for the notice, report or information, including, for example, the requirement to give the notice, report or information; and

sec.56 Existing requirement to keep a sample

This section applies if— before the commencement— a person was required to keep a sample under the Act ; and the expired regulation, part 4, division 3, prescribed matters for the requirement, including, for example, the samples that must be kept; and immediately before the commencement, the period for which the sample was required to be kept had not ended. The expired regulation continues to apply in relation to the requirement to keep the sample as if this regulation had not been made. (sec.56-ssec.1) This section applies if— before the commencement— a person was required to keep a sample under the Act ; and the expired regulation, part 4, division 3, prescribed matters for the requirement, including, for example, the samples that must be kept; and immediately before the commencement, the period for which the sample was required to be kept had not ended. (sec.56-ssec.2) The expired regulation continues to apply in relation to the requirement to keep the sample as if this regulation had not been made.

• (a) before the commencement— (i) a person was required to keep a sample under the Act ; and (ii) the expired regulation, part 4, division 3, prescribed matters for the requirement, including, for example, the samples that must be kept; and
• (i) a person was required to keep a sample under the Act ; and
• (ii) the expired regulation, part 4, division 3, prescribed matters for the requirement, including, for example, the samples that must be kept; and
• (b) immediately before the commencement, the period for which the sample was required to be kept had not ended.
• (i) a person was required to keep a sample under the Act ; and
• (ii) the expired regulation, part 4, division 3, prescribed matters for the requirement, including, for example, the samples that must be kept; and

sec.57 Required information given before commencement

Section 37 applies to required information mentioned in that section and given to the chief executive before the commencement if, on the commencement, the information has not been published under section 196 (1) of the Act .

Requirements for all geothermal wells

sch.2-sec.1 Removal of particular equipment

All equipment, other than casing, that may create a hazard that is in, or immediately adjacent to, a geothermal well must be removed before the well is plugged and abandoned. However, if it is not reasonably possible to comply with subsection (1) — the location of the equipment must be surveyed before the well is plugged and abandoned; and details of the equipment and its location must be included in an end of tenure report. (sch.2-sec.1-ssec.1) All equipment, other than casing, that may create a hazard that is in, or immediately adjacent to, a geothermal well must be removed before the well is plugged and abandoned. (sch.2-sec.1-ssec.2) However, if it is not reasonably possible to comply with subsection (1) — the location of the equipment must be surveyed before the well is plugged and abandoned; and details of the equipment and its location must be included in an end of tenure report.

• (a) the location of the equipment must be surveyed before the well is plugged and abandoned; and
• (b) details of the equipment and its location must be included in an end of tenure report.

sch.2-sec.2 Abandonment to be consistent with good industry practice

A geothermal well must be abandoned in compliance with good industry practice, to the extent that the practice is consistent with this regulation.

sch.2-sec.3 Capping of well

A geothermal well must be capped with a metal plate inscribed with the following information— the identifying name of the well; the total depth in metres of the well; the date the well was abandoned.

• (a) the identifying name of the well;
• (b) the total depth in metres of the well;
• (c) the date the well was abandoned.

sch.2-sec.4 Casing to be sealed

The casing of a geothermal well must be sealed below ground level. The stub of the casing must be buried below the surface at a depth that— allows for efficient later re-entry to the well; and will not adversely interfere with the normal activities of the owner of the land on which the well is located. (sch.2-sec.4-ssec.1) The casing of a geothermal well must be sealed below ground level. (sch.2-sec.4-ssec.2) The stub of the casing must be buried below the surface at a depth that— allows for efficient later re-entry to the well; and will not adversely interfere with the normal activities of the owner of the land on which the well is located.

• (a) allows for efficient later re-entry to the well; and
• (b) will not adversely interfere with the normal activities of the owner of the land on which the well is located.

Additional requirements for wells other than horizontal wells

sch.2-sec.5 Isolation of aquifers and porous formations

An aquifer or porous formation intersected by a geothermal well must be isolated so there is no interconnection of gas, steam or water at the point at which the aquifer or porous formation intersects the well. cementing an interval in a well, where an aquifer or porous formation is intersected by the well, to seal off the aquifer or porous formation

sch.2-sec.6 Casing of prescribed well

Steel casing must be removed from all sections of a geothermal well that are within or immediately adjacent to geothermal fluid. However, subsection (1) need not be complied with if it is not technically or commercially feasible to remove the casing. production casing that has been cemented in place and can not feasibly be removed (sch.2-sec.6-ssec.1) Steel casing must be removed from all sections of a geothermal well that are within or immediately adjacent to geothermal fluid. (sch.2-sec.6-ssec.2) However, subsection (1) need not be complied with if it is not technically or commercially feasible to remove the casing. production casing that has been cemented in place and can not feasibly be removed

sch.2-sec.7 Cement to be used for plugs

A geothermal well must have a surface plug of cement in the casing. Also, if a geothermal well has more than 1 casing string and any inner casing string does not reach the surface, the inner casing string must, if required to comply with section 5 , be plugged with cement at the top of the string. The cement used as a plug in the well must— be of an industry accepted grade, having regard to the salinity of the fluids in the surrounding strata; and be tested to ensure that it complies with industry accepted practices and standards. A plug in, or adjacent to, geothermal fluid in the well must, if reasonably practicable, be adequately secured. (sch.2-sec.7-ssec.1) A geothermal well must have a surface plug of cement in the casing. (sch.2-sec.7-ssec.2) Also, if a geothermal well has more than 1 casing string and any inner casing string does not reach the surface, the inner casing string must, if required to comply with section 5 , be plugged with cement at the top of the string. (sch.2-sec.7-ssec.3) The cement used as a plug in the well must— be of an industry accepted grade, having regard to the salinity of the fluids in the surrounding strata; and be tested to ensure that it complies with industry accepted practices and standards. (sch.2-sec.7-ssec.4) A plug in, or adjacent to, geothermal fluid in the well must, if reasonably practicable, be adequately secured.

• (a) be of an industry accepted grade, having regard to the salinity of the fluids in the surrounding strata; and
• (b) be tested to ensure that it complies with industry accepted practices and standards.

sch.2-sec.8 Requirement for packer left in well

A packer in, or adjacent to, a geothermal well that is not to be removed from the well must, if reasonably practicable— be made of a material that is intrinsically safe; and be adequately secured.

• (a) be made of a material that is intrinsically safe; and
• (b) be adequately secured.

sch.2-sec.9 Fluid to be left in well

A geothermal well must be left full of fluid that is of sufficient density to— help maintain the structural integrity of the well; and prevent gas influx.

• (a) help maintain the structural integrity of the well; and
• (b) prevent gas influx.

Additional requirement for horizontal wells

sch.2-sec.10 Requirement for liner

A horizontal geothermal well must be abandoned containing a slotted liner that is not made of steel. a slotted PVC liner However, if the horizontal geothermal well has the potential to cause a hazard to future mining because of high levels of methane, the geothermal tenure holder must conduct a risk assessment that includes an assessment of whether a fire resistant anti-static (or FRAS) liner should be used in the well. (sch.2-sec.10-ssec.1) A horizontal geothermal well must be abandoned containing a slotted liner that is not made of steel. a slotted PVC liner (sch.2-sec.10-ssec.2) However, if the horizontal geothermal well has the potential to cause a hazard to future mining because of high levels of methane, the geothermal tenure holder must conduct a risk assessment that includes an assessment of whether a fire resistant anti-static (or FRAS) liner should be used in the well.