ONRR uses the collected information to ensure that royalties are reported timely and paid appropriately and are based on correct product valuation. ONRR, as well as other Federal Government, state, and tribal entities, uses the collected information for audit purposes and for evaluation of the reasonableness of product valuation or of allowance claims submitted by lessees. The determination of the appropriate product value or allowance rate directly affects the royalties due. Failure to collect such data would prevent the Secretary from accomplishing statutory and trust responsibilities.
We analyzed our established data history of our compliance reviews and ongoing contact and interaction with industry. We found an increase in the time that industry takes to complete the requirements for (1) Form ONRR-4430 reporting and (2) valuation determinations of geothermal resources. We also found a decrease in industry's time to complete requirements for (1) Sales Summary and Facility Data reporting and (2) contract revisions and amendments for geothermal resources.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.