Geothermal powerplants and projects: certification and environmental review.

Assembly Member Rogers' legislation to expand California's environmental leadership development project certification program would allow geothermal powerplants and multi-plant sites to access streamlined environmental reviews through the State Energy Commission. The measure adds these facilities to existing categories like solar, wind, and energy storage systems that can qualify for consolidated permitting.

Under the proposed changes, single geothermal plants and projects combining multiple plants on one site would be eligible for the Energy Commission's certification process, which supersedes separate permits from various agencies. The program, which accepts applications through June 2029, currently facilitates development of renewable energy and storage facilities that meet specific capacity thresholds, including solar and wind plants generating 50 megawatts or more and storage systems capable of holding at least 200 megawatthours.

The certification pathway allows qualifying projects to undergo consolidated environmental review through the Energy Commission rather than obtaining multiple agency approvals. Once certified, facilities receive streamlined California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) processing without requiring additional action from the applicant or Governor. The Energy Commission's certification takes precedence over other applicable regulations and permit requirements, with certain exceptions.