Bureau of Land Management and FERC advance energy leasing and grid reforms

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is moving forward with several energy-related initiatives. The agency is conducting a lease sale for 26 oil and gas parcels totaling 20,334 acres across New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. Additionally, the BLM has released a draft environmental assessment for a proposed December 2026 lease sale involving approximately 127,000 acres in Colorado. This includes parcels on the Roan Plateau, which are not subject to a 2014 legal settlement. A 30-day public comment period for these Colorado parcels is open until September 11.

Separately, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) is seeking public input on grid efficiency and governance. FERC is requesting comments on improving market and planning efficiency through software, specifically regarding grid-enhancing technologies and load forecasting. The commission is also seeking feedback on governance and stakeholder reforms for PJM Interconnection to improve the grid operator's responsiveness to system needs.