Search Results for keywords:"hydropower licensing"

The New England Hydropower Company, LLC has filed an application with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for a license to develop the Ashton Dam Hydroelectric Project on the Blackstone River in Rhode Island. The project will include modifying and adding structures to generate about 793 kW of power, as well as facilities for fish passage and measures to protect the environment. The public and interested agencies are invited to submit study requests or requests to cooperate on the environmental document by March 22, 2025, with the project following a procedural schedule that includes assessments and issuing of necessary documents throughout 2025. For more information or to get involved, individuals can contact FERC or visit their website.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has finalized a rule clarifying timelines and requirements for water quality certifications under section 401(a)(1) of the Clean Water Act related to hydroelectric projects. This rule specifies that certifying authorities have one year to act on certification requests and affirms that projects discharging into U.S. waters need such certification or a waiver. The regulation updates language for consistency with Environmental Protection Agency terms and sets a timeline for filing certification requests. Changes include revising when certain certifications are required and ensuring procedural alignment with existing federal laws, aiming to enhance clarity, efficiency, and consistency in related hydroelectric proceedings.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has released an Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Saranac Hydroelectric Project located on the Saranac River in New York. The assessment suggests that issuing a new license for the project's operation with necessary environmental protections won't significantly harm the environment. Interested parties can access and comment on the EA online through the Commission's website. The public can submit feedback within 30 days of the notice and is encouraged to use the electronic filing system for comments.