H.R.2072 - To require the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to extend the time period during which licensees are required to commence construction of certain hydropower projects. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2072 aims to amend the Federal Power Act by granting the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) the authority to extend the construction commencement deadlines for certain hydropower projects. These projects are defined as those licensed before March 13, 2020. The extension could be up to six years beyond the original eight-year limit, granted in a series of up to three consecutive two-year periods.
The bill also addresses projects whose construction deadlines have already expired, allowing FERC to reinstate licenses under certain conditions. This reinstatement applies to licenses that expired after December 31, 2023, and before the enactment of this bill.
The bill seeks to provide flexibility for hydropower projects facing delays, potentially encouraging continued investment in renewable energy infrastructure.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of H.R.2072 would be to provide more time for hydropower projects to begin construction. This could prevent the loss of licenses and encourage the development of renewable energy sources.
It may also lead to increased regulatory burden on FERC as they evaluate extension requests. The bill could also affect the timeline for energy projects and their impact on local communities and environments.
Potential Benefits
- Encourages Renewable Energy: By extending deadlines, the bill supports the development and continuation of hydropower projects, a renewable energy source.
- Prevents License Loss: It prevents the expiration of licenses for projects facing delays, preserving investments and potential energy output.
- Economic Development: Hydropower projects can stimulate local economies through construction jobs and long-term operation.
- Flexibility for Project Developers: Provides needed flexibility for developers facing unforeseen challenges in project commencement.
- Potential for Increased Energy Security: By supporting hydropower, the bill contributes to a more diverse and secure energy supply.
Potential Disadvantages
- Environmental Concerns: Extended construction timelines could prolong environmental impacts associated with hydropower projects.
- Delays in Community Benefits: Communities may experience delays in receiving the benefits of hydropower, such as clean energy and economic opportunities.
- Regulatory Burden: FERC may face an increased workload in processing extension requests, potentially diverting resources from other important tasks.
- Uncertainty for Stakeholders: The extension process could create uncertainty for stakeholders, including landowners and environmental groups.
- Potential for Inefficient Projects: Extending deadlines may allow less viable projects to continue, potentially misallocating resources.
Constitutional Alignment
H.R.2072 appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce. Hydropower projects often impact interstate waterways and energy markets, thus falling under federal regulatory authority.
The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights. The delegation of authority to FERC is consistent with established administrative law principles.
However, the bill's impact on environmental regulations and property rights could raise questions requiring further legal scrutiny to ensure full constitutional compliance.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).