FR 2025-00085

In this Federal Register notice, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) announces a significant procedural step involving Northern States Power Company and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (Michigan EGLE). The notice concerns a Clean Water Act section 401(a)(1) water quality certification tied to a project by Northern States Power Company. This document marks the receipt date of the certification request as December 6, 2024, and sets a one-year deadline, December 6, 2025, for Michigan EGLE to act. If no decision is made by that date, the request is automatically deemed waived.

General Summary

The notification from FERC is straightforward in its procedural announcement. A water quality certification request was made, and the commission has provided a clear timeline for response. The document specifies the rights and responsibilities of Michigan EGLE under the Clean Water Act, emphasizing the consequences of inaction — an automatic waiver of the certification request.

Significant Issues or Concerns

Several issues arise from the notice. First, the absence of an abstract might limit rapid understanding for those unfamiliar with regulatory processes. Technical references, such as "18 CFR 4.34(b)(5)," could alienate readers without legal or regulatory backgrounds. Additionally, there's a lack of detail about the specific project at hand, which can be critical for stakeholders wanting to assess environmental or community impacts. Finally, the establishment of a one-year timeframe as "reasonable" lacks an explanation, which may seem arbitrary without context on how such durations are determined agency-wide.

Impact on the General Public

The document primarily addresses regulatory timelines rather than laying out any immediate direct impact on the public. However, it indirectly ties to environmental oversight and water quality safeguards, core areas of public concern. Timelines for agency action can influence how quickly or slowly such issues are addressed. Citizens interested in clean water and environmental health may see this as a crucial step in holding regulatory bodies accountable.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For stakeholders, the implications are more pronounced. Northern States Power Company, as the applicant, relies on a clear and timely decision to proceed with or adjust project plans. Any delays could result in logistical or financial complications. Conversely, Michigan EGLE's actions must balance expeditious decision-making with a thorough environmental review to maintain trust and adherence to environmental standards. Other stakeholders, such as environmental groups and local communities potentially affected by the project's outcomes, might view the set timeline as either a pressure point or an assurance of timely engagement on water quality matters.

Overall, the document sets a procedural stage in environmental regulation while leaving room for further engagement and decision-making by the involved parties.