H.R. 5631: Geothermal Ombudsman for National Deployment and Optimal Reviews Act

This bill, known as the Geothermal Ombudsman for National Deployment and Optimal Reviews Act, aims to establish a Geothermal Ombudsman and a Geothermal Permitting Task Force within the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Here are the main objectives and components of the bill:

Establishment of Geothermal Ombudsman

The bill requires the Secretary of the Interior to appoint a Geothermal Ombudsman within 60 days of its enactment. The Ombudsman will have several responsibilities, including:

• Acting as a liaison between various offices of the BLM, including field, district, and State offices.
• Providing dispute resolution services for applicants seeking geothermal authorizations.
• Monitoring and facilitating the processing of permits across BLM offices.
• Developing best practices for the permitting and leasing processes related to geothermal resources.
• Coordinating with the Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council to enhance geothermal project approvals.

Formation of the Geothermal Permitting Task Force

In addition to the Ombudsman, the bill mandates the formation of a Geothermal Permitting Task Force, which will also be established within 60 days of enactment. This Task Force will:

• Be led by the appointed Geothermal Ombudsman.
• Provide support for the Ombudsman's duties related to the permitting of geothermal projects.
• Include personnel from different Departmental bureaus to help facilitate geothermal authorizations.

Personnel Assignments and Support

The Geothermal Ombudsman will have the authority to assign staff from various Departmental offices to support geothermal project reviews and authorizations. Key provisions about these assignments include:

• Assigned personnel must work in person at a Department office, as required.
• They may be required to travel to specific BLM field, district, or State offices for work on geothermal projects.
• The Ombudsman can provide retention allowances to staff with expertise in geothermal authorizations, potentially enhancing their pay by up to 25%.

Reporting Responsibilities

The Ombudsman is tasked with submitting an annual report to both the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources and the House Committee on Natural Resources. This report will detail the activities of the Task Force and assess the effectiveness of the geothermal permitting process over the previous year.

Definitions

To clarify the scope of the bill, several definitions are provided, including:

• Geothermal authorization: Any license, permit, or approval needed to site or operate a geothermal energy project on public land.
• Geothermal energy project: A project utilizing geothermal energy for heating or electricity that is located partially or wholly on public land.
• Public land: Lands covered under the Geothermal Steam Act where geothermal leasing is permitted.

Conclusion

This bill is designed to streamline the process for geothermal energy projects by creating clear roles and support within the Bureau of Land Management, promoting efficient reviews, and establishing consistent best practices.

Relevant Companies

• ORGN - Ormat Technologies: As a key player in geothermal energy, the establishment of new permitting processes could impact their project timelines and operational efficiency.
• CWCO - Califia Farms: If involved in geothermal practices or partnerships, the company may benefit from improved access to permits.