Final EIS of Proposed Nevada Geothermal Site Ready for Review

WINNEMUCCA, Nev. — The final environmental assessment analyzing the impacts to construct, operate and maintain the proposed Gerlach Geothermal Exploration Project in Washoe County, Nevada, is now available for public review.

The decision record, finding the project would have no significant impact and project documents are available to review here.

The Gerlach Geothermal Lease Unit is located in Washoe County, less than one mile northwest of Gerlach on the western edge of the Black Rock Playa. 

During the one- to two-year exploration phase of the project, up to 10 people will be employed with the potential for more in upcoming phases.

The Bureau of Land Management manages vast stretches of public lands with the potential to make significant contributions to the nation’s renewable energy portfolio and provides sites for environmentally sound renewable energy projects.

“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,” said Mark Hall, manager of the BLM’s Black Rock field office. 

Ormat has proposed further exploration of the Gerlach geothermal resource based on results of previous geothermal exploration, including the drilling and testing of geothermal wells and access road construction.

Those seeking more information about the project can contact project specialist Tai Subia at [email protected] or 775-623-1500.

The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska. The agency also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation.