New Mexico Streamlines Geothermal Permitting (ABQjournal.com)
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| (Courtesy 50states.com) |
The Republican governor says the aim is to increase renewable energy production in the state.
Martinez says she hopes the new law will send a clear signal that New Mexico is open for responsible energy development and ready to compete with surrounding states.
In certain cases, the law allows for geothermal companies to avoid getting additional permits from the state engineer’s office.
The law includes several groundwater protections, and it allows for water rights holders to file court actions if they believe their rights are being impaired by a geothermal developer.
State officials say the law will help as interest grows in exploring the potential for utility-scale geothermal projects in New Mexico.
