BLM Approves Major 2GW Fervo Cape Geothermal Power Project

Milestone in Geothermal Energy Expansion
The U.S. Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has officially approved the Fervo Cape geothermal power project, a significant 2GW initiative located in Beaver County, Utah. This decision is a pivotal step in enhancing geothermal energy production on public lands.

Contributing to Carbon-Free Goals
The Fervo Cape project aligns with the Biden-Harris administration’s ambition of establishing a carbon pollution-free power sector by 2035. Developed by Fervo Energy, the project will span approximately 631 acres, with 148 acres designated as public lands. Once operational, it is projected to deliver clean, baseload power to over two million households, with Phase I expected to begin supplying energy to the grid by 2026.

Innovative Technology Utilization
Utilizing enhanced geothermal technology, the Fervo Cape project involves injecting water into heated underground rock formations to extract heated water for electricity generation. This innovative approach aims to optimize energy output while minimizing environmental impact.

Streamlining Future Developments
The BLM has authorized nearly 32GW of clean energy projects on public lands, including 42 initiated under the current administration. Additionally, the BLM is proposing a new categorical exclusion to facilitate future geothermal energy projects through a more efficient resource confirmation process. This exclusion could expedite operations on up to 20 acres, allowing for critical activities such as core drilling and temperature gradient assessments.

Commitment to Geothermal Growth
BLM Director Tracy Stone-Manning emphasized the agency’s dedication to responsibly advancing geothermal energy. The proposed categorical exclusion is expected to enhance the speed of locating new geothermal resources, contributing to a cleaner energy future.