FR 2021-03400

Ontario Power Generation Inc. (OPG) has submitted an application to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) seeking permission to transmit electric energy from the United States to Canada over a ten-year period. This application is made under the authority of the Federal Power Act, which requires authorization for any such energy exports.

The DOE will evaluate the application to ensure that exporting power will not negatively affect the sufficiency and reliability of the electric power supply in the United States. Additionally, the DOE will assess the environmental impacts of the proposed energy transmission. Interested parties have until March 22, 2021, to submit comments, protests, or motions to intervene in this proceeding.

Significant Issues and Concerns

While the document outlines the procedural aspects of filing comments and interventions, it seems to lack specific information about the financial impacts or cost implications of the proposed energy export. This information could be crucial for stakeholders who may be impacted by potential changes in energy prices or supply.

Moreover, the language used to explain the procedural requirements related to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's (FERC) rules might be difficult for some individuals to understand, particularly those who are not familiar with regulatory frameworks. This could be a barrier to participation for those who wish to express their views on the application.

The relationship between OPG and its power marketing entity, OPGET, is presented in a manner that could be complex for non-experts to grasp. Clarifying this relationship could help the public better understand the operational aspects of the application.

Another concern is the lack of specific criteria or timelines for the environmental impact evaluation, which may lead to uncertainty regarding when a final decision will be made.

Furthermore, the application does not provide a compelling rationale for granting the authorization beyond stating that the exported power is surplus and will not impair the U.S. power supply. More detailed justification might help stakeholders understand the broader implications of the authorization.

Broader Public Impact

For the general public, this application could have implications for the cost and availability of electricity. If approved, it could lead to changes in how electricity is distributed which might influence energy prices, especially in border regions between the U.S. and Canada.

Stakeholder Impacts

1. For OPG: Approval of this application would allow OPG greater flexibility in its operations, enabling the company to access U.S. energy markets more effectively and enhance its ability to trade and market electricity internationally.

2. For U.S. Energy Suppliers: The proposal could create new opportunities for U.S.-based power marketers and producers to sell surplus energy to OPG, potentially expanding their market base and increasing revenue.

3. For Consumers: The export of surplus electricity to Canada could marginally impact electricity prices in the U.S., particularly if the supply dynamics within the U.S. are affected. However, the document specifies that the sufficiency of U.S. supply will not be impaired.

4. Environmental Groups: These stakeholders may have concerns about the environmental impacts of such energy exports, although these impacts will be evaluated as part of the DOE's decision-making process.

In summary, while the application presents several potential advantages, including facilitating cross-border trade and potentially stabilizing the energy market, it also raises numerous questions and concerns that require careful consideration by stakeholders and the public alike.