FR 2024-31474

The document at hand is a notice from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regarding a tariff filing submitted by the Southwestern Power Administration. This filing is significant as it pertains to changes within the Upper Great Plains Region, specifically related to the Pick-Sloan Missouri Basin Program Eastern Division under the Western Area Power Administration. The changes proposed in this tariff are scheduled to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Summary of the Document

This official notice alerts the public about the implementation timeline for the new tariff and encourages those who have concerns or support to get involved in the process. Importantly, individuals interested in intervening or lodging a protest must do so by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on January 21, 2025. The commission emphasizes the importance of electronic submissions for efficiency, suggesting that the public leverage the "eFiling" system for their comments or interventions.

Significant Issues and Concerns

Several issues are noteworthy:

1. Legal and Regulatory Complexity: The document contains numerous references to legal regulations, such as "10 CFR 903.23," which may not be easily understood. This complexity could deter public engagement due to the procedural ambiguity.

2. Explained Procedures: While the document briefly outlines what actions can be taken to intervene or protest, it does not provide detailed instructions on how an individual should proceed. This lack of clarity might leave less-experienced parties uncertain about how to effectively participate.

3. Digital Accessibility: Although the document champions electronic filing, it does not account for individuals who may lack digital access or proficiency. This situation could affect the ability of certain demographic groups to engage with the process fully.

4. Physical Submission Address: Listing a physical address for submissions is helpful for some, but it may not be convenient or accessible for everyone, particularly those who live far away or have mobility issues.

5. Role of the Office of Public Participation (OPP): The document mentions the assistance that OPP can provide but fails to detail specific examples of aid. More detailed information could improve public understanding of how the office can facilitate involvement.

Impact on the Public

Broadly, this notice serves to keep the public informed and inject transparency into the procedural workings of the Southwestern Power Administration's tariff changes. Public notice of such changes is essential as they potentially impact utility rates and regional energy program adjustments, which can have ripple effects on economic conditions and social welfare.

For specific stakeholders—such as landowners, members of environmental justice communities, and Tribal members—the document holds particular significance as it opens a channel for their input into energy-related decisions that might affect their livelihoods, environment, or cultural sites.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

• Positive Impacts: By enabling a framework for public intervention, the notice empowers stakeholders to voice their concerns or support for proposed changes, potentially influencing the final outcome to reflect a more balanced and inclusive view.

• Negative Impacts: Conversely, if the procedures remain opaque or inaccessible, there is a risk that only a small segment of the population—those familiar with legal jargon and digital tools—will have their voices heard. This imbalance could mean that the broader public remains uninvolved in critical decisions impacting their community and region.

In conclusion, while this document is a crucial step in fostering public participation and transparency, efforts should be made to simplify the process, ensuring broader inclusivity and understanding among all affected parties. Such measures could strengthen the democratic processes within energy regulatory frameworks.