(a) Definitions In this section:
(1) Eligible entity The term eligible entity means
(A) a utility;
(B) an electric cooperative;
(C) a State;
(D) a political subdivision of a State;
(E) an Indian tribe; or
(F) a Native corporation.
(2) High-cost region
The term high-cost region means a region in which the average cost of electrical power exceeds 150 percent of the national average retail cost, as determined by the Secretary.
(c) Eligible activities An eligible entity may use grant funds under this section, with respect to a geothermal energy project in a high-cost region, only
(1) to conduct a feasibility study, including a study of exploration, geochemical testing, geomagnetic surveys, geologic information gathering, baseline environmental studies, well drilling, resource characterization, permitting, and economic analysis;
(2) for design and engineering costs, relating to the project; and
(3) to demonstrate and promote commercial application of technologies related to geothermal energy as part of the project.
