119th (2025–2027)
H.R. 5639
The Co-Location Energy Act authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to allow solar and wind energy projects to be developed on federal lands and waters already under lease for oil, gas, coal, or geothermal production. This "co-location" approach enables companies to evaluate and build renewable energy systems on these existing leased areas without requiring entirely new leases, potentially speeding up renewable energy development on public lands. Importantly, the bill requires that the current leaseholder consent before any renewable energy evaluation or permit can be issued on their lease area. The Secretary must issue regulations within 180 days to implement the program and determine which renewable energy activities may qualify for streamlined environmental review under federal law. The bill affects energy companies, the Interior Department, and other entities seeking to develop renewable energy on federal properties, though it does not specify any direct federal funding for the initiative.