The Bureau of Land Management(BLM) has approved a series of strategic energy projects intended to strengthen the nation’s infrastructure and improve its path to energy self-sufficiency. The initiatives include a 74-mile gas pipeline in Montana and three geothermal projects in Nevada, all on public lands managed by the agency.
Strategic support of geothermal projects
The approved proposal for Montana will allow NorthWestern Energy to construct an subway pipeline from Helena to Three Forks. The route will use an existing utility corridor, which will minimize its environmental impact. Construction will take place between 2026 and 2029, with preliminary studies beginning in 2025. This pipeline is part of an accelerated national strategy to respond to energy supply emergencies.
At the same time, three geothermal projects have received approval in Nevada under fast-track review processes. The first, known as Diamond Flat, seeks validation of the geothermal potential of an area near Fallon through test drilling led by Ormat Technologies. The second, McGinness Hills, will upgrade three existing power plants in Lander County by integrating technology improvements and a 15 MW solar field. The third, Pinto, will focus on exploratory studies on land near Denio to evaluate new renewable energy sources.
These developments are part of the BLM’s BLM’s commitment to responsibly manage energy resources on federal lands. With this strategy, the agency strengthens the national supply and, at the same time, promotes local employment generation and economic dynamism in rural regions. In addition, these actions align the BLM with energy transition and source diversification goals.
The approval of these projects reflects our commitment to strengthening U.S. energy independence.
Bill Groffy, acting director of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
Follow us on social networks and don’t miss any of our publications!
YouTube LinkedIn Facebook Instagram X (Twitter) TikTok
Source and photo: BLM
