DOE's Latest Proposal and its Implications on Clean Energy Project Permitting Processes

[Shortie]

A new approach to expedite the permitting process for certain clean energy projects which includes solar, transmission projects and batteries has been proposed by The Department of Energy (DOE). This proposal aims to use categorical exclusions under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to streamline projects that they do not expect to have a significant impact on the environment. It will target new energy storage projects, transmission line upgrades and solar farms specifically on previously adjacent or disturbed land.

Whilst the move seems to have been welcomed by some as a step towards accelerating the growth of clean energy technologies, others have argued that it is insufficient in scope. The inclusion of additional technologies such as carbon capture and geothermal has been suggested by experts to effectively address the scale of the clean energy transition.

A proposal from the DOE which removes the 20-mile limit for expedites and transmission upgrades approval for certain energy storage technologies represents a shift from the more time-consuming and traditional permit process.

Those involved in clean energy projects could be significantly impacted by this change by offering a faster route to project realization but also sparking debate over the scope and adequacy of the streamlined process.

For more information on this development, you can read the full article here

 

[Nomad]

The Department of Energy's proposal to expedite the permitting process for specific clean energy projects is a noteworthy step towards promoting the growth of clean energy technologies. The elimination of the 20-mile limit for expediting approval for energy storage technologies and transmission upgrades signifies a departure from the conventional, time-consuming permit process. While this shift could offer a quicker pathway to realizing clean energy projects, it simultaneously sparks debate over the adequacy and breadth of the streamlined process.