California Geothermal Energy

California has two of the largest geothermal reservoirs in the United States, the Salton Sea resource area and the Geysers, with an estimated generation capability of 2,200 MW and 1,800 MW respectively.  

Geothermal leases are for a 10-year period with 50 percent of the funds disbursed to the state, 25 percent is disbursed to the respective county, and 25 percent remaining in the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

The BLM manages public lands for many uses, including sustainable energy development. The leased parcels undergo a detailed environmental analysis that includes three opportunities for involvement: scoping, public comment and protest periods. In addition, each lease, if issued, contains standard stipulations to protect endangered species and cultural resources and ensures that development is safe and environmentally responsible. After parcels are leased, lessees must submit site-specific proposals for additional in-depth analysis before energy development can begin.

BLM California partners with the California Division of Oil Gas and Geothermal Resources, Imperial Irrigation District, Tribal governments, and private industry to develop other geothermal resources.

View current and recent geothermal lease sale notices and results below.