Geothermal Ombudsman for National Deployment and Optimal Reviews Act

This bill aims to significantly improve the efficiency of geothermal energy project authorizations on public lands by establishing a Geothermal Ombudsman and a Geothermal Permitting Task Force within the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) within 60 days of enactment.

The Geothermal Ombudsman will serve as a crucial liaison between various BLM offices and the National Renewable Energy Coordination Office, providing dispute resolution services for applicants and monitoring permit processing timelines. This role also involves developing best practices for geothermal permitting and leasing, and coordinating with the Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council.

The Geothermal Permitting Task Force, led by the Ombudsman, will support these duties by facilitating cross-office personnel assignments. This allows for the temporary relocation of expert staff from other Departmental bureaus to assist field offices with geothermal authorizations, ensuring specialized knowledge can be deployed where most needed. Additionally, the Ombudsman may offer retention allowances to these assigned personnel to incentivize their continued involvement and expertise.

An annual report detailing the Task Force's activities and evaluating the effectiveness of geothermal permit processing will be submitted to Congress, ensuring accountability and transparency in the ongoing efforts to optimize geothermal energy development.