BLM will expedite environmental assessments within a 14-day timeframe to determine whether Ormat’s proposed projects can proceed.
The new permitting process will initially apply to several geothermal initiatives led by Ormat Nevada. These include the Diamond Flat, McGinness Hills, and Pinto projects, all located in Nevada. The projects aim to expand domestic renewable energy production while ensuring adherence to environmental regulations.
At the Diamond Flat site near Fallon, Ormat will carry out drilling operations and resource assessment to determine the commercial viability of the geothermal reservoir. The project is situated on federally leased land and will involve exploratory activities to confirm the geothermal potential.
In Lander County, the McGinness Hills geothermal optimization project will involve enhancements to three existing geothermal power plants. Planned upgrades include the drilling of additional wells, installation of high-efficiency heat exchangers and cooling systems, and the construction of a 15MW solar photovoltaic field. These improvements are expected to raise the project’s generation capacity beyond the current 193MW.
The Pinto project, near Denio, will include preliminary drilling on leased public lands. Ormat will conduct tests to evaluate the geothermal resource's potential in this region, with the goal of determining feasibility for future energy development.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum stated: “Geothermal energy is a reliable energy source that can power critical infrastructure for national security and help advance energy independence. By cutting red tape and advancing President Trump’s American energy dominance agenda, we’re fast-tracking reliable energy projects while strengthening national security and supporting American workers.”
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is tasked with accelerating environmental reviews, aiming to complete assessments within 14 days. These evaluations will determine whether the proposed projects can proceed under federal regulations. The BLM plays a key role in managing geothermal development on federal lands, enforcing environmental safeguards, and overseeing the collection of royalties.
In support of these efforts, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) has identified significant geothermal potential in Nevada’s Great Basin region. According to recent findings, geothermal resources there could eventually meet up to 10% of national electricity needs. Currently, geothermal energy contributes less than 1% to the overall energy mix in the U.S.
These initiatives mark a strategic effort to expand renewable energy infrastructure through streamlined procedures, while maintaining oversight and environmental standards.
