FERC Office of Energy Projects 1 Hydroelectric Licensing Regulations Final Rule July 23, 2003 Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Office of Energy Projects Office of the General Counsel
FERC Office of Energy Projects 2 Rulemaking Process Sept 2002 – Rulemaking initiated Oct/Nov/Dec – Regional Forums, Drafting Session, Comments February 2003 – NOPR Mar/Apr/May – Reg. Workshops, Drafting Session, NOPR Comments July Final Rule
FERC Office of Energy Projects 3 Integrated Licensing Process Goals Improves process efficiency, predictability, and timeliness Balances stakeholder interests Improves the quality of decision making
FERC Office of Energy Projects 4 Integrated Licensing Process Benefits Coordination w/ other processes Concurrent NEPA scoping and application preparation Increased public participation Early Commission staff assistance
FERC Office of Energy Projects 5 Integrated Licensing Process Benefits Process plan and schedule Early study plan development and informal/formal dispute resolution Enhanced Tribal Consultation
FERC Office of Energy Projects 6 Rule Issued 7/23/2003 Applicant Choice: TLP ALP ILP New Application Requirements PAD req. for TLP & ALP Rule Effective 10/23/2003 ILP Default 7/23/2005 Final Rule Transition Timeline
FERC Office of Energy Projects 7 Post-NOPR Modifications Improved Pre-Application Document More time for informal study dispute resolution Preliminary Licensing Proposal in place of Draft License Application
FERC Office of Energy Projects 8 Post-NOPR Modifications Water Quality Certification Application moved to REA Notice Keep existing NEPA Cooperating Agency Policy Tribal Consultation Meeting
FERC Office of Energy Projects 9 Post-Rule Activities Training & Outreach Individual Project & Regional Training Tribal Outreach Effectiveness study