S.1020 - 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
S.1020 aims to amend the Federal Power Act by allowing the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to extend the construction commencement deadlines for certain hydropower projects licensed before March 13, 2020. This extension could be granted for up to six additional years, beyond the initial eight years, in the form of three consecutive two-year periods. The bill also addresses situations where licenses have already expired, allowing FERC to reinstate them under specific conditions.
Expected Effects
The bill's passage would provide hydropower project licensees with more time to begin construction, potentially mitigating financial risks associated with delays. This could lead to increased hydropower development, contributing to renewable energy generation. It may also affect the environment and local communities near the project sites.
Potential Benefits
- Increased renewable energy production through hydropower.
- Potential for economic development in areas where hydropower projects are located.
- Greater flexibility for licensees facing unforeseen delays.
- Reinstatement of expired licenses could revive stalled projects.
- Could contribute to energy security by diversifying energy sources.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for delayed environmental impacts if projects are extended.
- Possible negative impacts on local communities near project sites due to extended construction periods.
- Risk of projects being extended without sufficient justification.
- May disincentivize licensees from adhering to original timelines.
- Could potentially lock in older hydropower technologies instead of encouraging newer, more efficient ones.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce, as outlined in Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 of the Constitution, given that energy production and distribution often involve interstate activities. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations. The delegation of authority to FERC to grant extensions is a common practice and generally upheld as constitutional.
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).