BLM Creates Geothermal Exploration Fast Lane Through Environmental Reviews
Published Date: 1/17/2025
Notice
Summary
The Department of the Interior is updating rules for the Bureau of Land Management to speed up geothermal energy exploration by adding a new shortcut that skips some paperwork. This change affects companies exploring geothermal resources and aims to save time and money while protecting the environment. Public comments are open until February 18, 2025, so everyone can weigh in before it takes effect.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
New CX Lets Exploration Permits Move Faster
The Department proposes a new categorical exclusion (CX) that would let the BLM approve Notices of Intent (NOIs) for geothermal resource exploration operations without preparing an environmental assessment when the project meets the CX conditions. The change is intended to speed approvals and save time and money for companies exploring geothermal resources on BLM-managed public lands.
Projects Must Meet Specific CX Limits
To qualify for the proposed GEO CX, an NOI cannot include direct testing of geothermal resources or resource utilization and must not exceed 10 acres of total surface disturbance. The CX also requires reclamation of disturbances and temporary routes, and requires vegetative cover on temporary routes to be reestablished within 10 years after approved reclamation begins.
Extraordinary Circumstances Can Trigger Full Review
Even if a proposed exploration NOI fits the CX, BLM responsible officials must evaluate whether any extraordinary circumstances (per 43 CFR 46.215) exist. If extraordinary circumstances apply or effects cannot be ascertained, the BLM will require modification of the proposal or will prepare an environmental assessment (EA) or environmental impact statement (EIS) instead of using the CX.
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