CA AB527

Exempts geothermal exploratory projects (up to 6 wells on 20 acres or less) from CEQA requirements until January 1, 2031, if projects meet specific conditions including setbacks from sensitive resources, no commercial production, and lead agency approval by county or Geologic Energy Management Division

Requires project developers to conduct reconnaissance surveys identifying natural resources, sensitive species, hydrological resources, and tribal/cultural resources before applying for CEQA exemption, and mandates lead agencies consult with California Native American tribes traditionally affiliated with the project area

Mandates the Geologic Energy Management Division promulgate regulations for enhanced geothermal system wells by January 1, 2029, addressing seismic risks, well construction, fracture propagation, and geologic/hydrologic isolation of geothermal fluids

Requires operators using enhanced geothermal system technology to disclose well stimulation fluid composition, seismic monitoring plans, and anticipated drilling information to the State Oil and Gas Supervisor prior to drilling

Establishes that any subsequent geothermal field development project on a site where a CEQA-exempt exploratory project occurred must use the pre-exploratory project conditions as the environmental baseline for CEQA review