BLM offers 23,675 acres for solar energy development in Southern Nevada
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LAS VEGAS – As part of the Biden-Harris administration’s goal to permit 25 gigawatts of renewable energy on public lands by 2025 and achieve a carbon pollution-free power sector by 2035, the Bureau of Land Management today announced it is auctioning four parcels totaling 23,675 acres for utility-scale solar energy development in the Amargosa Desert in Nye County, Nevada. The parcels, if fully developed, have the potential to produce nearly three gigawatts of renewable energy.
“This Notice of Competitive Offering will facilitate responsible renewable energy development in this area of high interest,” said Joseph Varner, acting Pahrump Field Office Manager. “We will work closely with our community partners and Tribal governments on the development of any successfully awarded parcels.”
The BLM is auctioning leases for two Amargosa Valley Solar Energy Zone parcels consisting of 3,775 acres and 3,451 acres. Solar Energy Zones were identified in the 2012 Western Solar Plan and designated for competitive leasing for solar energy development because of low conflict with natural and cultural resources, and low potential for conflicts with other land uses. The BLM is also auctioning rights to submit solar energy development proposals on two other parcels consisting of 10,129 acres and 6,320 acres. The BLM has received substantial interest for development of solar energy projects in the area, and BLM expects to evaluate additional proposals.
The BLM will host the live auction on June 27, 2023, at 10 a.m. local time offering two parcels in the Amargosa Valley Solar Energy Zone; and 1 p.m. local time offering the two other parcels. Further information about the auction can be found at: https://eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/2019939/510.
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.
For additional information, please contact Beth Ransel at (702) 515-5000 or BLM_NV_SND_EnergyProjects@blm.gov.
-BLM-
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.