FR 2025-00089

The document is a notice from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regarding PE Hydro Generation, LLC's application to obtain a license for the Warren Hydroelectric Project in Virginia. The notice announces the preparation of an Environmental Assessment (EA) to evaluate the potential environmental impacts of licensing the project. The notice indicates that FERC staff do not currently believe the project will significantly affect the environment.

General Summary

The primary purpose of the document is to inform the public and interested parties about the ongoing licensing process for the Warren Hydroelectric Project. The notice outlines the Commission's plan to prepare an Environmental Assessment (EA) rather than a more comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement, suggesting that significant environmental concerns are not anticipated. The document emphasizes public participation and provides contact information for those seeking to engage in the process.

Significant Issues or Concerns

Several concerns can be noted from the document:

1. Lack of Specific Details: The notice does not provide detailed information about the potential environmental impacts that will be assessed, which might be of interest to local stakeholders and environmental groups.

2. Budgetary Transparency: There is no mention of the costs associated with conducting the Environmental Assessment. In government processes, transparency about budget implications could be relevant for public scrutiny.

3. Timelines and Schedules: Although the document mentions that the application will be processed according to a schedule, it does not provide specific timelines for when the Environmental Assessment will be completed or how the licensing process will proceed. This absence of schedules may leave stakeholders guessing about the next steps.

4. Public Participation Information: While the document does provide contact details for the Office of Public Participation, it could improve public accessibility by giving more prominence or clearer guidance on how to engage in the process.

Impact on the Public

The potential impact of this notice on the general public is its call for involvement and its assurance that public comments on the EA will be considered before a final decision is made. This process reflects an opportunity for the community, especially those directly affected by the project, to voice their concerns and participate in governmental processes which may affect their environment.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

The stakeholders most likely to be affected by this notice include:

• Local Residents and Environmental Groups: These groups might have an interest in ensuring that the project's environmental impacts are thoroughly assessed. The lack of specific info about the EA might concern those who expect transparency and detail.

• PE Hydro Generation, LLC: The applicant of the project will need to wait for the completion of the EA and public feedback before receiving the final licensing decision. Delays or demands from the public could influence their project's trajectory.

• Tribal Communities and Landowners: The document references environmental justice communities and Tribal members as stakeholders. Their involvement and concerns are essential in ensuring equitable consideration of impacts potentially affecting lands and resources they rely on or value culturally.

By encouraging participation and offering assistance through the Office of Public Participation, FERC demonstrates its acknowledgment of diverse stakeholder interests. However, enhancing information clarity and transparency could further contribute to informed and meaningful public engagement.