BLM seeks public input on Orni 5 LLC geothermal exploration proposal
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EL CENTRO, Calif. – The Bureau of Land Management is seeking public input on the Environmental Assessment for the drilling of up to four geothermal exploration wells within the Truckhaven Leasing Area and the northeast edge of the Ocotillo Wells Special Recreation Management Area, for the purpose of identifying a viable geothermal resource.
“We are excited about the geothermal potential within the Truckhaven area and are working closely with the applicant to maintain access to the recreational opportunities found within the Ocotillo Wells area,” El Centro Field Office Acting Field Manager Ryan Chatterton said.
Geothermal energy development diversifies the nation’s overall energy portfolio, reduces carbon dioxide emissions, and advances the Administration’s policy of developing domestic energy resources. Geothermal energy is an important energy resource that generates electricity with minimal carbon emissions.
The BLM manages more geothermal energy production in California than in any other state. The BLM in California hosts 11 geothermal power plants, including The Geysers in Lake, Colusa, and Sonoma counties; Ormesa in Imperial County; and Casa Diablo in Mono County. Ongoing rent and royalties from current operations in California generate $7.85 million per year and an estimated 4,000 megawatts of electricity.
The Environmental Assessment for the Orni 5 LLC project is available for a 30-day public review through ePlanning, or by visiting the El Centro Field Office, 1661 S. 4th Street, El Centro CA 92243. The public can also mail comments to the same address as listed above with ATTN: Carrie Sahagun, BLM Assistant Field Manager.
For more information, contact Carrie Sahagun, BLM Assistant Field Manager, at 760-337-4437 or via email at csahagun@blm.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.