Podcast Summary: "The Future of Solar on Public Lands"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Boiling Point
• Host/Author: L.A. Times Studios
• Host: Sammy Roth
• Episode: The Future of Solar on Public Lands
• Release Date: February 6, 2025

Introduction and Setting the Scene

In the February 6, 2025 episode of Boiling Point, host Sammy Roth delves into the intricate balance between developing renewable energy and conserving California's precious public lands. Joining him is Russell Schofield, a retired ranger and wildlife biologist from the Federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM) with nearly three decades of experience. Their conversation unfolds against the stunning backdrop of the Mecca Hills Wilderness, now part of Chuckwalla National Monument—a designation made by President Biden just before leaving office.

The Desert Renewable Energy Conservation Plan (DRECP)

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the Desert Renewable Energy Conservation Plan (DRECP). Schofield explains, “The bureau has a tough job” (02:22), highlighting the BLM’s responsibility to juggle conservation with energy development. DRECP serves as a master plan to strategically place solar and wind farms in the California desert, aiming to minimize ecological impact while promoting renewable energy. Roth notes, “DRECP was all about not just identifying where the development needed to go and focusing the development in those development focal areas, but then also, how do we develop a conservation strategy that's going to allow us to permit these renewable energy projects while at the same time not making the tortoise go extinct” (16:10).

Political Shifts and Impact on Renewable Energy

The episode examines the fluctuating political landscape's impact on renewable energy projects. Under President Trump’s administration, there was a noticeable shift away from renewable initiatives. Roth states, “Trump's BLM approved a lot of solar and wind Farms between 2016 and 2020. But now, several years later, the world changed. This time, it's looking like oil and gas will reign supreme” (03:37). Schofield adds, “Trump has paused all approvals for renewable energy projects on public lands” (21:24), reflecting the administration's skepticism towards renewable advancements.

Balancing Renewable Energy and Conservation

Balancing the urgent need for renewable energy with the imperative to conserve delicate ecosystems is a recurring theme. Roth emphasizes the dilemma: “The absolute need for us to find solutions to climate change, ways to replace fossil fuels, but at the same time, we have to be careful not to destroy one of the last major moderately intact ecosystems that we have in California” (13:37). Schofield echoes the complexity, stating, “You’ve got tribes and you’ve got wildlife and you’ve got off-roaders and you’ve got rockhounds and you’ve got rural communities that like their views” (14:51). This multifaceted challenge requires meticulous planning and stakeholder cooperation.

The Role of Public Lands in Energy Transmission

Public lands play a crucial role beyond just housing renewable energy projects; they are vital for energy transmission. Roth discusses the necessity of transmission corridors: “Public lands basically surround the entire LA basin. San Diego. You can't get to LA without driving across public lands somewhere. So if you're looking to move energy from Nevada, from Arizona to California or vice versa, you're going to need to cross public lands” (23:09). This underscores the integral part public lands play in the broader energy infrastructure.

Balancing Renewable Energy Solutions: Rooftop vs. Public Lands

The conversation shifts to the feasibility of relying solely on rooftop solar versus large-scale projects on public lands. Schofield remarks, “I would love to think we could do it all with rooftop solar” (27:29), while Roth counters with realism: “I've written plenty of times about the various studies and political realities, basically coming to the conclusion that you're not going to really get anywhere close” (27:31). They acknowledge that while rooftop solar is essential, it alone cannot meet the massive energy demands required to transition away from fossil fuels.

Future Outlook and Challenges

Looking ahead, Roth and Schofield discuss the uncertainties surrounding renewable energy policies, especially with shifting administrations. Roth mentions the potential legal challenges: “The question of whether presidents have the power to undo national monuments has never been legally settled” (30:22). Schofield observes, “Trump has taken a much more aggressive stance against renewable energy on public lands” (21:26), indicating ongoing political volatility that could hinder progress.

Conclusion and Personal Reflections

The episode concludes with personal reflections and a sense of cautious optimism. Roth shares his emotional connection to the desert landscapes: “Part of me feels optimistic for the future, that we are slowly moving towards a renewable energy future. Part of me though, the Desert Rat part of me is a little depressed at the same time because that Valley. Beautiful valley” (26:56). Schofield concurs, recognizing the inherent trade-offs: “It's real challenging” (27:29).

Notable Quotes:

• Russell Schofield (02:22): “The bureau has a tough job.”
• Sammy Roth (16:10): “...how do we develop a conservation strategy that's going to allow us to permit these renewable energy projects while at the same time not making the tortoise go extinct.”
• Sammy Roth (03:37): “Trump has paused all approvals for renewable energy projects on public lands.”
• Russell Schofield (14:51): “You’ve got tribes and you’ve got wildlife and you’ve got off-roaders and you’ve got rockhounds and you’ve got rural communities that like their views.”
• Sammy Roth (23:09): “Public lands basically surround the entire LA basin. San Diego. You can't get to LA without driving across public lands somewhere.”
• Russell Schofield (27:29): “I would love to think we could do it all with rooftop solar.”
• Sammy Roth (27:31): “...you’re not going to really get anywhere close.”
• Sammy Roth (30:22): “The question of whether presidents have the power to undo national monuments has never been legally settled.”
• Russell Schofield (21:26): “Trump has taken a much more aggressive stance against renewable energy on public lands.”
• Sammy Roth (26:56): “Part of me feels optimistic for the future... Part of me though... is a little depressed at the same time because that Valley. Beautiful valley.”

This episode of Boiling Point offers a comprehensive exploration of the challenges and negotiations involved in harnessing renewable energy from public lands while striving to preserve California's unique ecosystems. Through insightful dialogue between Sammy Roth and Russell Schofield, listeners gain a nuanced understanding of the delicate balancing act required to address climate change without compromising the natural heritage.