BLM to hold virtual public information forum on Eagle Eye solar proposal
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LAKE HAVASU CITY, Ariz. — As part of the Bureau of Land Management’s efforts to build a clean energy future and achieve the Biden-Harris administration’s goal of a carbon pollution-free power sector by 2035, the Colorado River District will host a virtual forum on April 12, 2023, to share information and receive public input on the proposed Eagle Eye Solar Project. The forum will be held as part of the BLM’s solar variance application process and will kick off a 30-day public input period.
The BLM received a right-of-way application from the proponent, EAGL, LLC, for a proposed 400 MW solar development on 2,600 acres of public lands in the Lake Havasu Field Office designated as variance areas (https://blmsolar.anl.gov/variance/). Information gathered during the public input period will help the BLM determine whether to continue to process or to deny the right-of-way application. If the BLM decides to grant a variance and continue to process the application, it will initiate a full environmental review under the National Environmental Policy Act process, which will include additional public involvement.
The virtual public meeting is scheduled for April 12 beginning at 5 p.m. on Zoom. The meeting is expected to last about one hour. BLM staff will provide a short introduction followed by presentations from the project applicant. The public will have an opportunity to provide input on the proposed project during the meeting.
To participate in the meeting, go to: https://blm.zoomgov.com/j/1603464443?pwd=MVJVMzEvczZDU2RvNGxqUnFqeG1YQT09. The meeting will be recorded and then posted to the BLM Arizona YouTube channel.
Interested parties may submit comments via email to blm_az_crd_solar@blm.gov. Comments may also be mailed to: BLM, Attn: Erica Stewart, 7341 E. 30th Street, Suite A, Yuma, AZ 85365. Public input will be accepted until May 12, 2023.
The BLM manages vast stretches of public lands that have the potential to make significant contributions to the nation’s renewable energy portfolio. To promote the development of these energy sources, the BLM provides sites for environmentally sound development of renewable energy on public lands. The efficient deployment of renewable 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’ direction in the Energy Act of 2020 to permit 25 gigawatts of solar, wind, and geothermal production on public lands no later than 2025.
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.