Nevada’s Geothermal Breakthrough: 30 MW Crescent Valley Project Approved Despite Delays

The Bureau of Land Management has approved a major geothermal energy project in Crescent Valley that’ll generate enough electricity to power 33,000 homes. The July 2025 approval came after extensive environmental and cultural reviews that caused delays in the project’s timeline.

BLM approves Crescent Valley geothermal project to power 33,000 homes after extensive reviews

Ormat Nevada, Inc. will develop and operate the 30-megawatt facility on approximately 2,038 acres of land. The company plans to disturb about 233 acres for wells, pipelines, a power plant, and transmission lines. The project will use either double flash or binary cycle technology to convert underground heat into electricity. The facility will also include one photovoltaic solar field to supplement the geothermal power generation.

The BLM conducted a thorough environmental analysis under the National Environmental Policy Act before granting approval. The agency required measures to protect local habitats and water resources. The developer must also install air and noise emission controls to meet state and federal standards. Ongoing monitoring will guarantee the project stays compliant with environmental regulations. This reliable energy source will operate with capacity factors of nearly 96%, far exceeding most other renewable options.

Construction is expected to begin soon after the July approval. The Nevada Division of Minerals will manage permits for wells and supporting infrastructure. Workers will drill wells first, then build the power plant. The entire facility should be operating within 24 to 36 months of breaking ground. The development includes 17 geothermal wells for production and injection to maintain the underground reservoir system.

The project faced delays due to regulatory requirements and the need for detailed environmental and cultural resource studies. The BLM also held public comment periods where local communities and county authorities could voice their concerns. State agencies like the Division of Minerals worked with federal officials throughout the approval process.

Nevada sees this project as important for meeting its renewable energy goals. The facility will create jobs during construction and operation phases. It’ll also generate tax revenue for local and state governments. Infrastructure improvements in the project area are expected as workers build roads and other facilities needed for the plant.

The Crescent Valley project adds to Nevada’s growing geothermal energy sector. The state’s unique geology makes it ideal for this type of clean energy production. As developers confirm the underground reservoir’s viability, they’ll move forward with turning the desert’s natural heat into electricity for thousands of homes.