California Environmental Quality Act: geothermal exploratory projects: geothermal field development projects: enhanced geothermal system wells.

California Assembly Bill 527 aimed to update regulations related to geothermal energy projects, specifically focusing on exploratory and development activities for geothermal resources. The bill sought to streamline the approval process for enhanced geothermal system wells and ensure that these projects complied with the California Environmental Quality Act. However, it was ultimately vetoed.

Supporters of AB 527 would argue that the bill was a crucial step towards promoting clean energy and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. They would emphasize that by facilitating geothermal energy development, California could create jobs, boost the economy, and contribute to the state's climate goals.

Critics of AB 527 might contend that the bill posed risks to environmental protections by potentially allowing geothermal projects to bypass important regulatory scrutiny. They could argue that the expedited approval process could lead to negative impacts on local ecosystems and communities, undermining the state's commitment to environmental sustainability.