FR 2025-04483

General Summary

The document is a notice from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), announcing that Ampersand Kayuta Lake Hydro LLC has applied to surrender its license for operating the Kayuta Lake Hydroelectric Project on the Black River in New York. This decision comes after the company concluded that maintaining the project under new expected licensing conditions would not be economically viable. As part of its plan, Ampersand Kayuta Lake Hydro LLC intends to remove its hydropower equipment while leaving the recreational facilities intact. Management of the dam would revert to the New York State Canal Corporation. The public is invited to participate by submitting comments, motions to intervene, or protests until April 11, 2025.

Significant Issues and Concerns

Several issues arise from the document:

1. Lack of Financial Details: The notice does not detail the financial implications of surrendering the license. Questions remain unaddressed about how this decision might affect taxpayers and stakeholders in the community.

2. Economic Feasibility: The document mentions that anticipated licensing conditions would make the project uneconomic but lacks specific details regarding these conditions. Understanding this could shed light on the challenges faced by hydroelectric projects under regulatory frameworks.

3. Technical Complexity: The use of technical and legal jargon, such as references to CFR regulations, may make the document hard to understand for those not familiar with such terms, limiting transparency and public comprehension.

4. Complicated Filing Instructions: While electronic filing is recommended, the instructions for paper submissions may seem complex, potentially discouraging participation from some members of the public.

5. Absence of Alternatives: The notice does not mention any explored alternatives or discussions prior to the decision to surrender, leaving a gap in understanding the breadth of considerations involved in the decision-making process.

Impact on the Public

The document holds significant implications for the public:

• Broad Public Interest: The decision to cease hydroelectric operations at this site may impact local communities, particularly those reliant on the project's outcomes, such as energy supply and recreational opportunities.

• Environmental Considerations: With the removal of hydropower operations, there might be implications for local environmental conditions, though the document does not provide detailed analysis on this matter.

• Public Participation: The invitation for public comments allows stakeholders to express concerns or support. It highlights the importance of citizen engagement in regulatory processes.

Impact on Stakeholders

The announcement primarily affects the following stakeholders:

• Local Communities: Residents and businesses near the Black River may experience direct changes, both positive and negative, from the project's cessation.

• New York State Canal Corporation (NYSCC): As the dam's management returns to NYSCC, this organization will need to handle any infrastructural and operational impacts.

• Regulatory Bodies and Environmental Organizations: These entities might utilize the process as a case study or leverage comments to influence future regulatory proposals and environmental assessments.

In summary, while the document outlines a significant regulatory shift in hydroelectric management, it leaves several questions unanswered and concerns unaddressed for the general public and specific stakeholder groups. Enabling public participation through comments and motions is a positive aspect, though the complexity and lack of detail in certain areas pose challenges for an informed civic response.