FR 2021-00858

Brookfield White Pine Hydro LLC has submitted an application to obtain a new major license for the Hiram Hydroelectric Project on the Saco River in Maine. This project is currently under review by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which will be accepting public comments, motions to intervene, and protests related to this application.

Summary of the Document

The document outlines the details of the application filed by Brookfield White Pine Hydro LLC and specifies the procedural steps for public involvement. The Hiram Hydroelectric Project is significant as it generates an impressive annual average of 45,142 megawatt-hours of power. The FERC, which is responsible for regulatory oversight of such projects, has opened the floor for public comments and interventions, thereby inviting insights and concerns from the public and specific interest groups.

Significant Issues or Concerns

A key concern with the document is the absence of a detailed procedural schedule, which may lead to confusion and ambiguity regarding timing and next steps in the licensing process. Additionally, there is a considerable amount of complex legal and regulatory language present throughout the document that can be challenging for the average reader to understand. This complexity can limit the extent of public engagement, potentially reducing the effectiveness of public input in influencing the outcome related to this hydroelectric project.

Moreover, the document does not provide clarity on the financial aspects or potential costs associated with the licensing process. This lack of financial detail may make it difficult for stakeholders to evaluate the economic impact of the project.

Impact on the Public

For the general public, the ongoing regulatory review and the opportunity to submit comments and interventions signify an important part of democratic participation. However, the technical nature of the language used in the document could pose a barrier to this engagement. People who might be affected by the project—such as those living near the Saco River or who depend on its ecosystem—may find it challenging to fully understand and respond to the notice.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For specific stakeholders, such as environmental groups, local communities in Maine, or organizations concerned with energy production, the document represents both an opportunity and a challenge. The opportunity lies in the power these groups have to influence the decision-making process by submitting well-founded comments and interventions. However, the challenge is embedded in dissecting and comprehending the dense regulatory language, which may require additional resources or expertise.

Additionally, Brookfield White Pine Hydro LLC stands to benefit from the regulatory process, particularly if the final license is granted. This could allow them to continue operations and potentially expand their influence and power generation capacity. Conversely, the historical use of technical jargon and structured procedural hurdles may inadvertently favor the applicant by limiting effective public contestation or intervention.

In summary, while the document provides a necessary procedural platform for the Hiram Hydroelectric Project's license review, it presents several challenges in terms of accessibility and clarity for meaningful public participation and full evaluation of potential impacts. Effective public engagement will require simplified communication and perhaps additional outreach to help all interested parties understand and engage with the process effectively.