Geothermal Permitting and NEPA Timeline Analysis
- National Renewable Energy Laboratory
In this analysis, we outline the types of NEPA-related analyses and approvals (e.g., environmental assessment), and we provide examples of geothermal development activities (e.g., well drilling) that might require each type of approval, including an overview and discussion of the specific permits. We conducted an in-depth analysis of timelines specific to each NEPA analysis type, and we analyzed a sample of geothermal projects to identify factors that increased NEPA review timelines. Based on that analysis, we identified proven and potential strategies that can assist geothermal projects by lowering the time necessary to navigate the NEPA process, while maintaining the efficacy of the federal environmental review intact. We also identified areas of potential improvement in NEPA efficiency within each phase of geothermal development. Shortening project timelines can effectively decrease the perceived risk profiles of geothermal development projects. This submission includes a paper, poster, and presentation for the Geothermal Resources Council (GRC) summarizing geothermal permitting and NEPA timeline analysis. Also included are two spreadsheets detailing the NEPA timeline analysis and environmental assessments (EA).
- Research Organization:
- DOE Geothermal Data Repository; National Renewable Energy Laboratory
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), Geothermal Technologies Program (EE-2C)
- Contributing Organization:
- National Renewable Energy Laboratory
- OSTI ID:
- 1678730
- Report Number(s):
- 1258
- Availability:
- GDRHelp@ee.doe.gov
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Economic Impact of Permitting Timelines on Geothermal Power in California, Nevada, and Utah
Geothermal Development and the Use of Categorical Exclusions Under NEPA