Colombia has approved its first major geothermal energy project, the Nereidas exploratory initiative beneath the Ruiz Volcanic Massif. The environmental ministry's decision establishes new regulatory frameworks for geothermal development while maintaining strict protections for páramos, water resources, and protected areas. The country aims to harness geothermal potential of over 1,170 megawatts across volcanic regions including Nariño, Cauca, and Huila.