Protected Areas Exclusion (Solar) for 2026-2027 IRP

The geospatial data reflected in this Protected Area Layer contain minor data versioning and consolidation updates from the previous Protected Area Layer. The components of the Protected Area Layer mostly pertain to natural and wilderness areas where development of utility-scale renewable energy is prohibited, and were heavily based on RETI 1.0 blackout areas. The protected area layer for solar PV technology includes the BLM Western Solar Plan, as well as the latest Greater Sage-Grouse Habitat Management Areas (note: the Sage Grouse Habitat Management Areas provide separate exclusion areas for solar, wind, and geothermal resources). More information is found in the CEC presentation from the August 19 webinar, as well as the 2023 Land Use Screens Staff Report in the CEC Energy Planning Library.