FR 2021-00681

Summary of the Document

Brown Bear II Hydro, Inc. has announced its intention to apply for a new license for the Worumbo Hydroelectric Project located on the Androscoggin River in Maine. This process involves a series of steps overseen by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). The document from FERC serves as a notice that the pre-filing procedures for this application have commenced. It invites public and agency comments on the Pre-Application Document (PAD) and Scoping Document 1 (SD1). These documents are critical as they outline the proposed plan and the environmental scope that will be considered during the project's evaluation.

Given the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, all interactions are to be conducted in writing, foregoing public meetings. Stakeholders and interested parties are encouraged to submit their thoughts electronically or through mail by March 23, 2021.

Issues and Concerns

There are several points within this notice that may raise concerns or require further clarity:

• Complex Terminology: The document frequently references regulatory provisions such as "18 CFR part 5" and "50 CFR Part 402." Such language may not be immediately understood by the general public or stakeholders unfamiliar with FERC's processes. This complexity could hinder public participation in the comment process.

• Exclusion Due to Technology: There is a strong emphasis on electronic submissions, which may disadvantage individuals or entities lacking reliable internet access. While there are provisions for mail submissions, the dual emphasis might create confusion about the preferred method of communication.

• Lack of Financial Transparency: The document does not discuss any financial implications or budget considerations for the project. Without these details, stakeholders might find it challenging to evaluate potential economic impacts or raise concerns about financial management.

Impact on the Public

For the general public, the license application process for a hydroelectric project like this could have several broad effects. There might be environmental concerns, given the project's location on a significant waterway. Public comments are a crucial part of the process to ensure community perspectives and potential environmental impacts are considered in the decision-making process.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

• Environmental Agencies: Agencies focused on environmental protection have a pivotal role in this process as they are invited to provide insights and cooperate in preparing environmental documentation. Their involvement will likely influence regulatory outcomes significantly.

• Local Communities and Tribal Groups: These groups could be directly affected by the project's environmental and cultural implications. The document acknowledges the importance of these stakeholders, yet the complexity and submission requirements might limit effective participation.

• Brown Bear II Hydro, Inc.: As the applicant, the company is positioned to benefit significantly if the license is granted. It is also designated as the non-federal representative for consultations related to environmental and historical aspects, giving it some leverage in guiding the process.

In conclusion, this FERC notice is a critical step in the licensing process for a hydropower project. It opens the door for stakeholder engagement, although it may inadvertently limit participation through complex language and heavy reliance on digital submissions. The eventual outcome will largely depend on the input gathered during this pre-filing phase.