BLM seeks input on proposed energy corridor updates
CARSON CITY, Nev. – The Bureau of Land Management is seeking public comments on proposed amendments to the Section 368 West-wide Energy Corridors necessary to accommodate potential renewable energy projects, such as the 200-megawatt Dodge Flat II Solar Energy Center in Washoe County. The Dodge Flat II project is being analyzed separately, and a draft environmental assessment for that project will be available for public review and comment in the coming months.
Section 368 energy corridors are the preferred locations for development of energy transportation projects on lands managed by the BLM. The proposed adjustments to the energy corridors would support both solar development and energy transmission needs in the area.
A Notice of Intent will publish in tomorrow’s Federal Register to begin a 30-day public comment period at https://www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/search?conditions%5Bterm%5D=Dodge+Flat+II. The BLM plans to host a virtual public meeting to share information and gather comments. The date and time will be announced at least 15 days in advance through the https://eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/2027081/510, where additional information is available, and comments may be submitted through the “Participate Now” option (preferred). Comments may also be emailed to blm_nv_ccdo_dodge_flat_solar@blm.gov or delivered to the BLM Carson City District Office, Attn: Dodge Flat II Solar Energy Center, 5665 Morgan Mill Rd., Carson City, NV 89701. The comment period will close November 4, or 15 days after the virtual public meeting, whichever comes first.
To date, the Biden-Harris administration has approved 41 renewable energy projects on public lands (10 solar, 13 geothermal, and 18 gen-ties), allowing for early achievement of the goal to permit 25 gigawatts by 2025. In total, BLM has now permitted clean energy projects on public lands with a total capacity of approximately 29 gigawatts of power – enough to power over 12 million homes.
For more information, please contact Jon Kalb at 775-885-6000 or via email at blm_nv_ccdo_dodge_flat_solar@blm.gov.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.