USA, California: Comments Sought on Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement for Proposed Haiwee Geothermal Leasing Project

BLM Seeks Comments on Draft Plan for Haiwee Geothermal Leasing Project (BLM)

The Bureau of Land Management is seeking public comments on a draft supplemental environmental impact statement (EIS) for the proposed Haiwee Geothermal Leasing Project in Inyo County. The proposed billion-dollar project supports the Trump Administration’s goals of achieving energy security, strengthening local economies and creating local jobs.

The plan analyzes the proposed leasing of BLM-managed public lands for geothermal exploration, development, and utilization. The total acreage being considered for geothermal leasing is approximately 22,805 acres. Additionally, the BLM is analyzing three pending geothermal lease applications on public lands within the Haiwee Geothermal Leasing Area.

If approved, the project would deliver power to approximately 117,000 homes, contribute $72 million annually during peak construction and $3 million annually during operations to the Inyo County community. The total project investment amounts to approximately $1 billion. The project would also create job opportunities by hiring 250 temporary and 65 permanent employees.

Public comments on the draft supplemental EIS must be submitted to the BLM by Aug. 1, 2019.