BLM approves Wabuska Geothermal Exploration Project in Nevada

CARSON CITY, Nev. – The Bureau of Land Management issued a decision and final environmental assessment today for the Wabuska Geothermal Exploration Project, which will explore the potential for future geothermal development on approximately 54 acres of public lands north of Yerington.

Open Mountain Energy, LLC will drill and test up to 11 geothermal exploration wells and construct or improve access roads. If exploration shows the area is viable for commercial production, approximately two miles of new pipelines may be constructed and connected to existing infrastructure on nearby private lands.

“BLM manages vast stretches of public lands with potential to make significant contributions to the nation’s clean energy portfolio,” said Jonathan Palma, Acting Sierra Front Field Manager. “This project is a good example of BLM’s commitment to reducing America’s carbon footprint now and for future generations.”

The environmental assessment, maps, and other information are available at the BLM National NEPA Register.

Efficient deployment of clean energy from our nation’s public lands is crucial in achieving the Biden-Harris administration’s goal of a carbon pollution-free power sector by 2035, as well as Congress’s direction in the Energy Act of 2020 to permit 25 gigawatts of solar, wind, and geothermal production on public lands no later than 2025.

For more information, please contact environmental specialist David Schroeder at 775- 885-6119 or d1schroe@blm.gov.