FR 2025-02428

This notice from the Federal Register details a preliminary permit application submitted by HGE Energy Storage 4, LLC, seeking to explore the feasibility of a new hydropower project in Shasta County, California. This project, known as the Lake Shasta Pumped Storage Project, proposes to leverage the existing Shasta Lake as a lower reservoir and create a new upper reservoir to generate energy. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) is inviting comments, motions to intervene, and competing applications, indicating active efforts to involve the public and stakeholders in the decision-making process.

General Summary

HGE Energy Storage 4, LLC, has put forward plans to develop a pumped storage hydropower project located near Shasta Lake. The project aims to harness renewable energy capacity using two reservoirs: the existing Shasta Lake and a proposed new upper reservoir. Several infrastructural components, including penstocks, a powerhouse, and transmission lines, would be constructed to facilitate the project's execution. FERC has opened a 60-day window for public and stakeholder feedback, which can be submitted electronically or by mail.

Significant Issues and Concerns

Several critical issues and concerns emerge from this document:

• Lack of Cost Information: The document does not provide estimates concerning the financial cost of this project, making it challenging to assess potential economic implications or the risk of financial inefficiency.

• Environmental Impact Assessment: There is no discussion of an environmental impact assessment, a critical component that would address how the project might affect the region's ecosystem and federal lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Reclamation.

• Complex Terminology: The application includes several technical and legal terms that could be difficult for a general audience to understand. Terms such as "penstocks" and "reversible variable-speed pump-turbines" may require additional context or simplification.

• Public Participation Language: Legal and procedural terms used to describe public participation opportunities ("motions to intervene," "competing applications") might be confusing without more straightforward explanations.

• Submission Confusion: Having different submission addresses depending on the mail carrier could create unnecessary complications for those wishing to engage in the process.

Impact on the Public and Stakeholders

Broad Public Impact

The implementation of the Lake Shasta Pumped Storage Project could potentially impact the public in multiple ways, most prominently through its promise to provide increased renewable energy capacity, potentially benefiting the broader effort to transition to sustainable energy sources. However, the lack of clarity around environmental and financial details can leave the public uncertain about potential drawbacks or operational changes in the region.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

• Local Communities: Residents near Shasta Lake could be directly affected by construction and eventual operation of the project. Changes in land use, noise, and environmental shifts are potential concerns.

• Environmental Groups: These stakeholders might have significant interests in ensuring that an environmental impact assessment is conducted thoroughly to safeguard ecological integrity.

• Affected Agencies: U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Reclamation lands could be impacted, necessitating coordination to balance energy needs with conservation efforts.

In conclusion, the document outlines an ambitious plan for sustainable energy development but lacks detailed insights into its financial, environmental, and procedural implications. It encourages public engagement, but clearer communication and transparency will be pivotal in securing informed and active participation from all stakeholders.