(1) This section does not apply to an application for or about a geothermal permit.
(2) The Minister must consider the public interest in making a decision under this Act about an application or the granting of an approval by the Minister.
(3) If--
(a) another provision of this Act permits or requires the Minister to make a decision; and
(b) the other provision does not require the Minister to consider the public interest;
the Minister may still consider the public interest in making the decision.