FR 2021-03681

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has released a notice regarding a new application by Lower Saranac Hydro, LLC for a subsequent minor license for the Groveville Hydroelectric Project. This project is situated on Fishkill Creek in Beacon, New York, and does not encompass any federal land. The application is open for public inspection, and FERC is inviting the public to submit comments electronically until March 19, 2021.

Overview

The Groveville Hydroelectric Project aims to continue operations with an updated license and consists of various structures, including a dam and turbines. The process also includes the preparation of an Environmental Assessment (EA) or Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to evaluate the potential environmental impacts. Interestingly, FERC is not planning any on-site scoping meetings at this time, choosing instead to solicit written comments from the public due to current circumstances.

Key Issues and Concerns

Several issues arise from the announcement:

• Ownership Transfer: The document reveals that ownership interests were transferred from Enel Green Power North America, Inc. to Hydroland, Inc. However, it lacks detail on how this transfer might influence the operations or obligations connected to the project.

• Pending Analysis: While the application has been accepted, it remains "not ready" for environmental analysis. This gap in information leaves stakeholders uncertain about what additional steps are needed before analysis can proceed.

• Complex Filing Process: The outlined procedure for public comments involves numerous steps and specific requirements, which could discourage participation due to its complexity. Simplifying this process could facilitate broader community engagement.

• Data Privacy: By requiring personal contact details for comment submissions, the notice raises questions about privacy and the handling of personal information, which it does not clearly address.

• COVID-19 Impact: There is a brief mention of the National Emergency concerning COVID-19, yet the notice does not elaborate on how this public health situation affects the proceedings or the project's development.

Impact on the Public

For the general public, this notice opens up a channel for input on a local project that may have lasting environmental impacts. Residents and interested parties have until March 19, 2021, to share their perspectives, although the complexity of participation may act as a deterrent. This project holds potential benefits like renewable energy generation and local development but requires careful consideration of its environmental footprint.

Impact on Stakeholders

For specific stakeholders, such as environmental groups, local residents, and energy companies, the notice presents both opportunities and challenges. Environmental organizations may see this as a chance to ensure ecological considerations are prioritized, while local residents could be affected by changes in the local ecosystem or landscape.

Energy companies, particularly those involved in hydropower, might view the project as an industry opportunity but must navigate the licensing and compliance landscape carefully. The transfer of ownership interests could also signal shifts in project management or strategy, potentially affecting stakeholders involved directly with the project's operation and oversight.

Overall, while the document provides critical information about the Groveville Hydroelectric Project's licensing process, it also leaves unanswered questions and complexities that need addressing for all stakeholders to fully engage and understand the project's scope and impacts.