The Department of the Interior has announced progress in geothermal energy expansion on public lands, aiming to support the Biden-Harris administration's target of a carbon pollution-free power sector by 2035. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) approved the Fervo Cape Geothermal Power Project in Beaver County, Utah. This project could potentially generate up to 2 gigawatts (GW) of power, enough for over two million homes. Including this approval, nearly 32 gigawatts of clean energy projects have been sanctioned on public lands under the current administration.
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management Dr. Steve Feldgus emphasized geothermal energy as a significant untapped resource. "Today’s actions are part of the Department’s work to deliver on new opportunities, new technologies, and new solutions in geothermal energy that support the Biden-Harris administration’s commitment to create jobs, economic growth, and clean carbon-free electricity for communities throughout the West," he stated.
Geothermal energy is generated with minimal carbon emissions and can be used for various applications beyond electricity generation. Currently, there are 51 operational power plants producing geothermal energy from BLM-managed lands.
BLM Director Tracy Stone-Manning reiterated their commitment: "The BLM is committed to supporting the responsible growth of geothermal energy on public lands." A proposed categorical exclusion aims to speed up locating new resources by simplifying some environmental review processes.
A recent lease sale by BLM's Nevada State Office brought in record revenues since 2008, highlighting growing interest in geothermal development.
The Fervo Cape Geothermal Power Project uses enhanced systems injecting water into hot subsurface rocks to produce electricity. If fully developed, it will cover approximately 631 acres and produce up to 2 GW of clean energy.
BLM's proposed categorical exclusion would apply to operations plans covering up to 20 acres for confirming geothermal resources. It aims at reducing permitting timelines and costs but would still require additional analysis if further development occurs or if special circumstances arise.
As part of ongoing efforts, as of October 2024, the administration has approved multiple renewable projects exceeding its goal for renewable permits before 2025. These efforts align with improving federal permitting processes and accelerating project reviews.
