BLM to offer 1,064 acres for solar lease auction
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CAÑON CITY, Colo. – The Bureau of Land Management announced today it is auctioning 1,064 acres of public land for solar energy production in the De Tilla Gulch area of Saguache County, Colorado.
Bidding will take place at 10 a.m. on April 27, 2023, at the BLM Rocky Mountain District Office, located at 3028 East Main Street, Cañon City, CO 81212.
De Tilla Gulch was designated as a solar energy zone in 2012, identifying it as a location with substantial potential to produce solar energy at utility-scale and low potential for land use conflicts, including natural and cultural resource conflicts. This auction responds to significant development interest for the site, with a Call for Nominations or Expressions of Interest published in the Federal Register receiving replies from multiple potential developers.
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 information on how to participate in the auction, please contact Tracy Perfors, Planning and Environmental Coordinator, BLM Colorado State Office, at (970) 882-1136. For media inquiries, please contact Levi Spellman, Public Affairs Specialist, BLM Rocky Mountain District Office, at (719) 839-1584. Notice of the auction is available on the Federal Register website: https://www.federalregister.gov/.
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.