U. S. Geothermal Resource Policy - 36 Years Later

Geothermal Energy / Exploration

The President's National Energy Policy (2001) jump started the U.S Geothermal Resource program by authorizing the Secretaries of the Interior and Energy to increase access to public lands for geothermal energy production. To meet this goal BLM worked with the Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) to produce the report "Opportunities for Near-Term Geothermal Development on Public Lands in the Western United States" that identified 35 top-pick sites for geothermal development.

In 2004, BLM completed a geothermal strategic plan which is guiding the agency in the allocation of its resources for high priority geothermal activities. The enactment of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPAct) resulted in the first significant changes to the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970. The EPAct made comprehensive changes to the Geothermal Steam Act by completely revamping the leasing program; restructuring royalties; and revising lease terms, conditions, and rentals.

Original working URL: https://gsa.confex.com/gsa/2006AM/finalprogram/abstract_112477.htm