DOE Launches Online Portal as One-Stop-Shop for Streamlined Federal Transmission Permitting Coordination

On April 25, 2024, DOE released a new Federal permitting reform rule that significantly streamlines Federal environmental review and permitting processes for qualifying transmission projects, cutting review timelines while maintaining the integrity of the environmental review process. 

Consistent with the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023, the rule establishes the Coordinated Interagency Transmission Authorizations and Permits (CITAP) Program and authorizes DOE to coordinate a Federal interagency process to consolidate Federal reviews within a standard two-year schedule while ensuring meaningful engagement with Tribes, local communities, and other stakeholders.

To facilitate communication and coordination, today GDO has launched the CITAP online portal, a one-stop-shop for qualified transmission developers to track the status of their application, submit materials, and facilitate communication with DOE and other federal agencies. The secure online portal will be used to share information that will inform Federal permitting agencies’ authorization decisions and enhance transparency. 

The CITAP portal clearly identifies information and documentation needed to apply for federal environmental reviews and authorizations. As part of an Integrated Interagency Preapplication (IIP) Process, applicants will work iteratively through the portal with DOE and other Federal agencies to gather information that supports various federal permitting reviews and necessary authorizations, before the two-year environmental review timeline is initiated. This streamlined solution ensures that DOE can coordinate with other Federal agencies to deliver Federal permitting reviews and the development of a single environmental impact statement in a timely manner.

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