The U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has issued a new policy directing its state offices to conduct competitive geothermal lease sales annually, marking a significant shift from the previous biennial requirement under the Geothermal Steam Act.
The move is aimed at boosting domestic geothermal energy development and supporting national energy security.
The policy, effective immediately, outlines procedures for processing parcel nominations, coordinating with other federal agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service, and managing public involvement. While a 45-day lease sale notice remains mandatory, additional public comment is not required for environmental assessment-level analyses unless an environmental impact statement is prepared.
Under the guidance, BLM State Offices are expected to include the majority of nominated lands in their annual lease sales and submit plans to the National Renewable Energy Coordination Office. The initiative aligns with broader federal goals to expand renewable energy deployment and strengthen baseload energy capacity in support of the American Energy Dominance Agenda.
Industry observers note that accelerating lease sales could create new opportunities for geothermal developers in the United States, particularly in states with high geothermal potential.
For more information, visit: BLM geothermal leasing