Solar Power's Future on Public Lands Uncertain as Interior Department Weighs Options
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum recently introduced new limits on solar power expansion across public lands. However, recent meetings between the acting Bureau of Land Management (BLM) leader and other Interior Department officials hint that solar power might not be entirely off the table.
Burgum's new rules, announced weeks ago, have sparked concern among renewable energy advocates. They fear these restrictions could hinder the growth of solar news, despite increasing electricity demand driven by artificial intelligence and data centers.
The acting BLM leader has held several discussions with other Interior Department officials on solar news, suggesting that the topic remains under consideration. This follows a series of acting directors during the Trump administration, including Neil Kornze, Brian Steed, and William Perry Pendley.
While Burgum's new restrictions have raised questions about the future of solar news on public lands, ongoing discussions within the Interior Department indicate that the issue is far from resolved. The Solar Energy Industries Association has not observed any changes in the Trump administration's stance on renewable energy development, leaving the door open for potential revisions in policy.
