The Department of the Interior has proposed changes to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) procedures to introduce a new categorical exclusion for geothermal resource exploration by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). This change aims to make it easier and faster to approve exploration projects that typically do not have significant environmental impacts, thus supporting renewable energy development on public lands. Comments on this proposal are due by February 18, 2025. The BLM has reviewed past projects and determined that the new exclusion is justified because these activities have historically shown no significant environmental effects.
Simple Explanation
The Department of the Interior wants to make rules to let some geothermal projects get started faster because they usually don't hurt nature much. But they need to make sure they're being careful and clear about how they watch for any surprises or make sure everyone understands what's happening.