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Idaho National Laboratory to Lease DOE land to Geothermal Private Developers

Idaho National Laboratory Opens Doors for Private Geothermal Energy Development: A Historic Opportunity

By :Robert Buluma

The Idaho National Laboratory (INL), a significant site identified under the U.S. Department of Energy's "Cleanup to Clean Energy" initiative, is making history by inviting private developers to lease 2,500 acres of its land for clean energy projects. This marks the first time in 75 years that the INL has opened its doors for private development, showcasing a pivotal shift towards leveraging federal lands for renewable energy generation.


The initiative, spearheaded by the DOE and supported by President Biden's ambitious climate goals, aims to repurpose former nuclear sites into hubs for clean energy innovation. With INL's participation, this vision takes a significant step forward, offering a unique opportunity for private entities to contribute to the nation's clean energy transition.


The INL's decision to release a Request for Proposal (RFP) signals a commitment to collaboration and innovation. By inviting private developers to submit proposals for clean energy projects, the INL is tapping into the expertise and resources of the private sector while aligning with Executive Order 14057's directive to utilize federal properties for clean electricity generation.


The deadline for submissions, set for April 1, underscores the urgency and importance of this initiative. Private developers have until this date to present their proposals, outlining their plans to harness the potential of INL's vast land for renewable energy generation. This RFP represents not only a significant opportunity for private developers but also a milestone in the INL's long history of scientific research and national security efforts.


The INL's decision to participate in the "Cleanup to Clean Energy" initiative reflects a broader commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development. By repurposing former nuclear sites for clean energy projects, the INL is contributing to efforts to combat climate change and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.


Moreover, the INL's initiative highlights the importance of public-private partnerships in driving clean energy innovation. By collaborating with private developers, the INL can leverage external expertise and resources to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy technologies.


As the deadline for submissions approaches, all eyes are on the INL and the potential impact of this historic initiative. With private developers poised to transform INL's land into hubs for clean energy innovation, the stage is set for a new era of collaboration and progress in the clean energy sector.

Our initial article How the US DOE Invested in Fervo Energy and Chevron

In conclusion, the INL's decision to lease 2,500 acres of its land for private clean energy development represents a significant milestone in the nation's transition towards a sustainable energy future. By embracing this opportunity, the INL is not only driving innovation but also reaffirming its commitment to environmental stewardship and national security. As the deadline for submissions looms, the INL's initiative stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and the potential of federal lands to drive clean energy innovation.

The RFP link can be found Here

Source: US DOE

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