Analysis of Alternative Processes

There are many types of resource extraction already taking place on public lands, including wind energy, cattle grazing, timber harvesting, mining, and oil and gas drilling. Proposed projects for each of these land uses have a different permit application process within the BLM. Solar energy facilities currently utilize the right-of-way process; however, the Solar PEIS is considering changes to this process. We completed a comparative analysis, using the same set of normative criteria as the solar process analysis, of two processes used for energy generation: the wind energy right-of-way process and the oil and gas leasing process. The comparative analysis of these two processes builds off the results of the solar process analysis by identifying components which could offer solutions to weaknesses identified in the solar process. Both BLM staff and the public are familiar with these established processes and incorporating some or all of either of these processes into a new solar process could feasibly be considered. Key components of all three processes are summarized in the Table.