BLM to hold virtual public information forum on solar proposals
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KINGMAN, Ariz. — The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) will hold a virtual forum on May 18, 2023, at 5 p.m., to share information and receive public input on three applications for solar energy development on public lands designated as solar variance areas in Mohave County. The three projects are White Hills Solar, Mineral Park Solar, and Leo Solar. White Hills is initially proposed as 450-megawatt on 4,300 acres of public lands, Mineral Park Solar is initially proposed as 275-megawatt on 3,958 acres of public lands, and Leo Solar is initially proposed as 300-megawatt on 3,736 acres of public lands.
The information forum will be held as part of the solar variance application process, during which the BLM determines whether a solar project proposed for development outside of a designated solar energy zone is appropriate for consideration. Information gathered during the public input period will inform the BLM’s determination on whether to continue to process or to deny the right-of-way applications. If the BLM decides to process an application, it will continue through the National Environmental Policy Act planning process, which will include further public involvement.
The meeting will be hosted via Zoom and is expected to last about 90 minutes. BLM staff will provide a short introduction followed by presentations from project applicants. Members of the public can provide input on the proposed projects.
To participate in the meeting, go to https://blm.zoomgov.com/meeting/register/vJIsfumrqT8uGfo9FtZ1zh9C4FAfnmUYZyY. 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 June 19, 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.