Source: https://openei.org/wiki/RAPID/Hydropower/Compare
Timestamp: 2017-10-18 21:30:45
Document Index: 470113696

Matched Legal Cases: ['§ 25740', '§ 399', '§ 20', '§ 20', '§8', '§8', '§8', '§ 476', '§ 476', '§ 49', '§ 4928', '§ 4928', '§ 4928', '§ 1648', '§ 1648', '§ 1648', '§ 201', '§196', '§23', '§23', '§ 216', '§ 218', '§ 5', '§ 5', '§ 8', '§ 8', '§ 478', '§ 478', '§278', '§278', '§216', '§216', '§ 77', '§ 77', '§ 77', '§ 393', '§ 393', '§ 393', '§ 386', '§ 386', '§120', '§ 49', '§ 49', '§ 49', '§ 49', '§ 4906', '§ 4906', '§ 4906', '§ 4906', '§102', '§65', '§65', '§ 248', '§24', '§ 196', '§ 196', '§ 15060', '§ 21080', '§ 116', '§ 1', '§ 1251', '§ 1341', '§1004', '§ 1251', '§ 1251', '§ 1341', '§ 1251', '§ 25', '§ 1002', '§ 1002', '§ 1341', '§ 1341', '§ 1341', '§ 1341', '§ 1341', '§ 1341', '§ 1251', '§ 1341', '§ 3745', '§ 6111', '§ 1341', '§ 1251', '§ 1021', '§ 1341', '§ 0400', '§ 69', '§ 1341', '§ 1341', '§1004', '§ 1251', '§ 1251', '§ 1341', '§ 1251', '§ 1341', '§ 47', '§ 47', '§ 1341', '§ 1251', '§ 1341']

RAPID/Hydropower/Compare | Open Energy Information
RAPID/Hydropower/Compare
RAPID / Hydropower / Compare
Compare Hydropower Permitting and Regulations Across States
Hydropower Facility, Licensing & Certification Comparison
The hydropower facility's location, size, type of customer the facility sells energy to, and whether the facility sells energy in "interstate commerce" will determine what state and federal permits the facility requires. A hydropower project may require state public utility commission approval. In general, if a facility sells its power to the public, the facility is considered a state "public utility" for the purposes of regulation by the state public utility regulatory body. This typically requires the regulatory body to issue a certificate for its construction, operation, or sell of electricity.
Some states may also require a certification for renewable portfolio standard (RPS) eligibility. These certified facilities must comply with state specific procurement and accounting requirements, and may count their generation towards the facility’s RPS goal or mandate. The state then may use the electric generation from these certified facilities to count towards the state’s RPS mandate or goal. Most states utilize renewable energy certificate (REC) tracking systems to account for renewable energy generation used towards the state’s RPS. Most states’ recognize hydropower, in some form, as a RPS eligible technology.
Small-low-impact projects may qualify for state run enhanced permitting assistance programs. Each state has its own unique small-low-impact hydropower program however most states have a pre-screening process to determine if the project meets the programs low-impact criteria, a coordinated resource agency review practice, and a single point of contract for applicants (developers). Most states also institute shorter comment periods for certain permits, conduct multi-agency site visits, and may submit a letter to FERC indicating that state agency requirements are satisfied or submit a FERC exemption application on the developer’s behalf, expediting the permitting timeline. Each state defines small hydropower differently, but all states require projects to meet specific cultural and natural resource criteria including minimum flows, water quality, fish passage, watershed protection, threatened and endangered species, recreation, and cultural resource protection. FERC Small/Low Impact Hydropower Program Website; Oregon Department of Energy Small, Low-Impact Hydropower Website; Colorado Energy Office: Colorado Small Hydropower Handbook; Small Hydropower Assistance Program.
Certificate of Public Good/Certificate of Public Convenience & Necessity
Certificate Regulatory Agency
Certificate Threshold
Regulated Entity Definition
Certificate Exemptions
Small Hydropower Program
Small Hydropower Program Regulatory Agency
Small Hydropower Definition
Renewable Portfolio Standard Process (RPS)
RPS Eligible Hydropower
RPS Regulatory Agency / Tracking System
Alabama Hydro Facility
A public utility may need to obtain a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) from the Regulatory Commission of Alaska.
Any public utility before commencing with utility operations or receiving compensation for providing services to customers.
A "public utility" or "utility" includes every corporation whether public, cooperative, or otherwise, company, individual, or association of individuals, their lessees, trustees, or receivers appointed by the court, that owns, operates, manages, or controls any plant, pipeline, or system for furnishing, by generation, transmission, or distribution, electrical service to the public for compensation. AS 42.05.990(6).
A plant or facility that generates electricity entirely from renewable energy resources (i.e., hydropower) is exempt from regulation if:
The plant or facility is first placed into commercial operation on or after the effective date of this exemption process and before January 1, 2016 and does not generate more than 65 megawatts of electricity;
The electricity generated by the plant or facility is sold only to one or more electric utilities that are regulated by the Commission; and
The person that constructs, owns, acquires, or operates the plant or facility has not received from the state: (i) a grant that was used to generate the electricity from the renewable energy resources; or (ii) a tax credit related to the generation of electricity from the renewable energy resources. AS 42.05.711.
The Commission may also exempt a utility, a class of utilities, or a utility service from all or a portion of the Alaska Public Utilities Regulatory Act if the Commission determines that an exemption is in the public interest. AS 42.05.711(d)
Alaska does not currently have a small hydropower program.
Alaska does not have a mandatory or a voluntary renewable portfolio standard.
Alaska Hydro Facility
Arizona Hydro Facility
Arkansas does not currently have a small hydropower program.
Arkansas does not have a mandatory or a voluntary renewable portfolio standard.
Arkansas Hydro Facility
California does not have a state specific comprehensive facility licensing process for hydropower development.
California does not currently have a small hydropower program.
"California requires all electric utilities procure 50% of their retail sales from eligible renewable energy resources by 2030. The California Energy Commission is also required to certify certain electric generation facilities as eligible renewable resources for RPS purposes. Cal. Pub. Res. Code §§ 25740-25751; Cal. Pub. Util. Code §§ 399.11-399.16; Renewables Portfolio Standard Eligibility Guidebook, at p.1 California also requires a facility to become RPS certified. A facility must be capable of producing electrical generation that may be used by a retail seller or publicly owned electric utility to satisfy its RPS procurement requirements. To qualify for RPS certification, a facility must use one or more eligible renewable energy resources identified by the California Energy Commission. Renewables Portfolio Standard Eligibility Guidebook, at p.5.
"California defines renewable resources to include ""small hydroelectric generation of 30 megawatts or less, ...ocean wave,... or tidal current, and any additions or enhancements to the facility using that technology."" ""A small hydroelectric generation facility is not an eligible renewable electrical generation facility if it will cause an adverse impact on instream beneficial uses or cause a change in the volume or timing of streamflow."Renewables Portfolio Standard Eligibility Guidebook, at p.14.
California Hydro Facility
“Public utilities” need a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN), from the Colorado Public Utilities Commission, in order to construct or operate a facility or an extension of a facility. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has jurisdiction over most hydroelectric projects, including primary transmission lines required for the project. However, a developer may need to obtain a CPCN from the Commission for transmission line extension projects, interconnected group net-metered hydroelectric power systems, and conduit projects less than five megawatts. Colorado Code of Regulations 4 CCR 723-3, Rules Regulating Electric Utilities.
Any public utility before constructing or operating a transmission line extension project, interconnected group net-metered hydroelectric power systems, and conduit projects less than five megawatts may need to obtain a CPCN. Colorado - C.R.S. 40-5-101 et seq., Utilities-New Construction – Extension.
A public utility'...includes every...electrical corporation...operating for the purpose of supplying the public for domestic, mechanical, or public uses and every corporation, or person declared by law to be affected with a public interest, and each of the preceding is hereby declared to be a public utility and to be subject to the jurisdiction, control, and regulation of the commission..." In addition "[e]very cooperative electric association, or nonprofit electric corporation or association, and every other supplier of electric energy, whether supplying electric energy for the use of the public or for the use of its own members, is hereby declared to be affected with a public interest and to be a public utility and to be subject to the jurisdiction, control, and regulation of the commission and to the provisions of articles 1 to 7 of this title." Colorado - C.R.S. 40-1-101 et seq., Definitions.
The utility does not need to apply to the Colorado Public Utilities Commission for approval of construction and operation of a facility or an extension of a facility, which is in the ordinary course of business. 4 CCR 723-3-3205(b). The ordinary course of business includes:
Small, low-impact hydroelectric projects may qualify for the Streamlined Small, Low Impact Hydropower Permitting Program (Program). The Program reduces the time it may take to undergo the state environmental review process, which in turn, may lead to quicker FERC processing of a license or exemption application. Colorado - C.R.S. 24-38.5-108, Colorado Energy Office-State Agency Coordination of Review of Federal License and Exemption Applications for Hydroelectric Energy Projects; Successfully Streamlining Low-Impact Hydropower Permitting: Colorado’s Model for the Entire Country, at p.1
To qualify as a “low-impact” project the project must meet the following criteria:
Colorado requires all investor-owned utilities procure 30% of their retail sales from eligible renewable energy resources by 2020.
New hydroelectricity with a nameplate capacity of 10 MW or less and hydroelectricity in existing on January 1, 2005 with a nameplate rating of 30 MW or less. Note: Pumped storage hydro is excluded.
Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC); Western Renewable Energy Generation Information System (WREGIS)
Colorado Hydro Facility
Connecticut Hydro Facility
Delaware Hydro Facility
United States Hydro Facility
Florida Hydro Facility
Georgia Hydro Facility
Hawaii Hydro Facility
Idaho Hydro Facility
Illinois does not currently have a small hydropower program.
Illinois requires large investor-owned electric utilities and alternative retail electric suppliers to source 25% of eligible retail electricity sales from renewable energy by 2025. I.L.C.S. § 20-3855.
Hydropower that does not involve the construction of new dams or significant expansion of hydropower dams. I.L.C.S. § 20-3855.
Midwest Renewable Energy Tracking System (M-RETS); PJM Generation Attribute Tracking System (GATS)
Illinois Hydro Facility
Indiana does not currently have a small hydropower program.
Indiana does not have a mandatory renewable portfolio standard, but does have a voluntary clean energy portfolio standard program. The program sets a voluntary goal of 10% clean energy by 2025 based on 2010 utility electric supply. 30 % of the utility's goal can be met by clean coal technologies and 50% of qualifying energy obtained by Indiana utilities participating in the program must come from within the state. Participants in the program must have an average of 4% energy supplied from clean energy by the end of compliance in 2018, 7% by 2024, and 10% by 2025 to remain in the program and receive program incentives. Ind. Code. §8-1-27.
Hydropower is a clean energy technology under Indiana's Clean Energy Portfolio Standard (CPS). Ind. Code. §8-1-27.
The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission administers the CPS program and measures compliance with tradeable Clean Energy Credits. Excess credits may only be counted toward the current or next goal period. Ind. Code. §8-1-27.
Indiana Hydro Facility
Iowa does not currently have a small hydropower program.
Iowa implements the state Renewable Portfolio Standard under Iowa's Alternative Energy Law, which requires two investor-owned utilities (MidAmerican Energy and Alliant Energy), to contract for a combined total of 105 MW of renewable generating capacity and associated energy production. Iowa Code § 476.41.
Small hydropower facilities are defined as:
i) A hydroelectric facility at a dam;
ii) Land, systems, buildings, or improvements that are located at the project site and are necessary or convenient to the construction, completion, or operation of the facility;
iii) Transmission or distribution facilities necessary to conduct the energy produced by the facility to users located at or near the project site.
Iowa Code § 476.42.
There is no applicable tracking system.
Iowa Hydro Facility
Kansas Hydro Facility
Kentucky does not currently have a small hydropower program.
Kentucky does not have a mandatory or voluntary renewable portfolio standard.
Kentucky Hydro Facility
Louisiana Hydro Facility
Maine Hydro Facility
Maryland Hydro Facility
Massachusetts Hydro Facility
Michigan Hydro Facility
Minnesota does not currently have a small hydropower program.
Minnesota requires public utilities operating in the state to have at least 25% of retail electricity sales be generated or procured using eligible renewable sources by 2025. Minn. Stat. 216B.1691.
Hydroelectric facilities less than 100 MW.
Midwest Renewable Energy Tracking System (M-RETS); Michigan Renewable Energy Certification System (MIRECS)
Minnesota Hydro Facility
Mississippi does not currently have a small hydropower program
Mississippi does not currently have a Renewable Portfolio Standard.
Mississippi Hydro Facility
Missouri Hydro Facility
Montana Hydro Facility
Nebraska Hydro Facility
Nevada Hydro Facility
New Hampshire Hydro Facility
New Jersey Hydro Facility
New Mexico Hydro Facility
Electric corporations must obtain a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the New York Public Service Commission before beginning construction of an electric plant. New York – Public Service Law.
Electric corporations before beginning construction of an electric plant.
A “electric corporation includes every corporation, company, joint-stock association, partnership and person...who owns, operates, or manages a electric plant for generation for public use.” New York – Public Service Law.
New York does not currently have a small hydropower program.
New York requires all investor-owned utilities procure 50% of their retail sales from eligible renewable energy resources by 2030.
Hydroelectric upgrades with no new storage impoundments, with eligibility limited to the incremental production associated with the upgrade; new low-impact run-of-river hydroelectric facilities limited to 30 MW or less, with no new storage impoundment; and existing very small hydroelectric facilities within certain conditions (10MWs or less, in-state facilities, with expiring above-market energy contracts). In-State run-of-river hydroelectric facilities of 5MWs or less in commercial operation at any time prior to January 1, 2003 that demonstrate need to receive RPS financial support to operate.
New York Hydro Facility
North Carolina Hydro Facility
North Dakota does not currently have a small hydropower program.
North Dakota does not have a mandatory Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS), but does have a voluntary RPS with an objective that 10% of all retail electricity sold in the state come from renewable energy and recycled energy by 2015.
An eligible hydroelectric facility must have an inservice date of January 1, 2007, or later, or be new hydroelectric generation obtained from repowering or efficiency improvements to hydroelectric facilities existing on August 1, 2007. N.D. Century Code § 49-02-26.
North Dakota Hydro Facility
Ohio does not currently have a small hydropower program.
Ohio requires that the state's retail electric service providers, excluding municipal utilities and electric cooperatives, meet annual renewable energy and solar benchmarks to achieve a program goal of deriving 12.5% of annual retail electricity supply from renewable energy by 2025. Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 4928.64; Ohio Admin. Code 4901:1-40-01.
"Hydroelectric facilities that are in compliance with state environmental laws and standards are eligible renewable resources under Ohio's RPS program. Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 4928.64. Hydroelectric facilities are those ""hydroelectric generating facilities located at a dam on a river, or any water discharged to a river, that is within or bordering the state of Ohio or bordering an adjoining state. Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 4928.01(A)(37)(b).
PJM /MISO Generation Attribute Tracking System (GATS)
Ohio Hydro Facility
Oklahoma Hydro Facility
Oregon Hydro Facility
Pennsylvania does not currently have a small hydropower program.
Pennsylvania requires each electric distribution company and electric distribution supplier to supply 19% of its electricity using alternative-energy resources by 2020 with annual benchmarks for percentages pertaining to specific renewable technologies.73 Pa. Stat. § 1648.1.
Low-impact hydropower and large-scale hydropower qualify as alternative energy sources under Pennsylvania's Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards. 73 Pa. Stat. § 1648.7. Large-scale hydropower is the "production of electric power by harnessing the hydroelectric potential of moving water impoundments," including pumped storage. Low-impact hydropower does not include pumped storage and must have a FERC licensed capacity of 21 MW or less, or be an "incremental hydroelectric development" meeting various certification and state environmental standards. 73 Pa. Stat. § 1648.7.
Pennsylvania Hydro Facility
Rhode Island Hydro Facility
South Carolina Hydro Facility
South Dakota Hydro Facility
Tennessee does not currently have a small hydropower program.
Tennessee does not have a mandatory or a voluntary renewable portfolio standard.
Tennessee Hydro Facility
Texas Hydro Facility
Utah Hydro Facility
Any energy company must obtain a Certificate of Public Good (CPG) from the Vermont Public Utility Commission (VPSB) before beginning construction of a proposed project. A hydropower developer must obtain a CPG from the VPSB for transmission line extension project, or an interconnected group net-metered hydroelectric power system. The Board will review the proposed project on a site-specific basis analyzing the environmental, economic and social impacts of the proposed project before issuing a CPG.
Vermont Public Utility Commission;
A developer before beginning construction of transmission line extension projects, outside of FERC's jurisdiction, interconnected group net-metered hydroelectric power systems, and project's that sell retail electricity within Vermont may need to obtain a CPG.
A "energy company" includes individuals, partnerships, associations, electric cooperatives, corporations, and municipalities owning or conducting any public service business or property used in energy production (e.g., heat, light, or motion from natural gas, solar, geothermal resources, nuclear, wind...or flowing water. 30 V.S.A. § 201
Vermont’s Small Hydropower Assistance Program is an optional program that provides enhanced assistance from the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, the Vermont Public Service Department and the Vermont State Historic Preservation Office of the Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development, for small, low-impact projects. The Program is designed to provide an expedited review process for small-low-impact hydroelectric projects in accordance with the Small Hydropower Assistance Program. Vermont Small Hydropower Assistance Program Overview; Small Hydropower Assistance Program Vermont Small Hydropower Assistance Program Site-Specific Determinations Summary.
Proposals for new hydroelectric projects, in Vermont, that meet the Small Hydropower Screening Criteria for limited resource impacts may be eligible for the Vermont Small Hydropower Assistance Program.
Vermont requires all utilities procure 75% of their retail sales from eligible renewable energy resources by 2032.
Hydroelectric facilities with a generating capacity of 200 MW or less.
New England Power Pool Generation Information System (NEPOOL)
Vermont Hydro Facility
Virginia Hydro Facility
Washington does not have a state specific comprehensive facility licensing process for hydropower development.
Washington does not currently have a small hydropower program.
Washington requires all utilities procure 15% of their retail sales from eligible renewable energy resources by 2020.
Hydroelectric generation projects are eligible for compliance under RPS if incremental electricity produced as a result of efficiency improvements completed after March 31, 1999, are made to:
i) Hydroelectric projects owned by a utility subject to this standard and located in the Pacific Northwest; or to
ii) Hydroelectric generation in irrigation pipes and canals located in the Pacific Northwest, where the additional generation in either case does not result in new water diversions or impoundments.
Washington Hydro Facility
West Virginia does not currently have a small hydropower program.
West Virginia does not have a mandatory or a voluntary renewable portfolio standard.
West Virginia Hydro Facility
Wisconsin does not currently have a small hydropower program.
Wisconsin implemented an increasing renewable electricity schedule for electric providers to reach a statewide renewable energy goal of 10% renewable electricity by 2015. After 2015, Wisconsin requires electric providers to maintain a 6% increase in renewable electricity based on a (2001-2003) baseline. 196 Wis. Stat. §196.378.
"Hydroelectric generation projects less than 60 MW receive credit for the sum of:
all hydropower purchased in a reporting year;
the average of the hydropower produced by the utility adjusted to reflect capacity increases from improvements or removal from service;
the amount of hydropower generated in the reporting year by facilities owned by the electric provider placed in service in 2004.
Hydroelectric generation projects greater than 60 MW can be counted toward an RPS requirement if the facility was placed in service on or after December 31, 2010.
Wisconsin uses the Midwest Renewable Energy Tracking System (M-RETS) to track and verify RECs.
Wisconsin Hydro Facility
Wyoming Hydro Facility
Hydropower Transmission Comparison
The siting of a hydroelectric facility requires the developer to consider issues related to associated transmission lines and interconnection of the facility to the electric grid.
Pursuant to the Federal Power Act, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has jurisdiction over interconnection of wholesale generators that need to connect their generation facilities to a transmission system. FERC has authority over “public utilities,” which under 16 USC 824a(e) includes any person who owns or operates facilities subject to jurisdiction of FERC.
Depending on the requirements of the particular state, the developer may need to obtain a Certificate of Public Good (CPG), a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN), or other approval from a state utility regulatory authority such as a public utilities commission for transmission line extension projects outside of the FERC license boundary. In some cases, the CPCN process for interconnection may be combined with the CPCN process for the generation facility. Whether the transmission facility will require a CPCN differs by state, possible requirements include:
Transmission Interconnection Request Process
Interconnection Request Regulatory Agency
Interconnection Request Threshold
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has jurisdiction over the primary transmission lines for most hydroelectric projects. However, a public utility may need to obtain a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the Regulatory Commission of Alaska before the construction or operation of a transmission line extension projects located outside of a FERC license boundary.
Alaska does not currently have a state specific interconnection request process.
A public service, in part, includes any product or commodity furnished and the plant, equipment…and facilities employed by any public utility…” Ark. Code Ann. §23-1-1(12) (2017). A public utility is defined, in part, as “persons and corporations… owning or operating equipment or facilities for producing, generating, transmitting, delivering or furnishing electricity for the production of light, heat, or power to or for the public for compensation.” Ark. Code Ann. §23-1-101(9) (2017).
Arkansas does not currently have a state specific interconnection request process.
Public utilities may need to obtain a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the California Public Utilities Commission.
Any proposed hydropower project for the construction of a transmission line of 200 kV or more.
"Public utilities" include an "electric corporation...where the service is performed for, or commodity is delivered to, the public or any portion thereof." An "electric corporation" includes "every corporation or person owning, controlling, operating, or managing any electric plant for compensation...". Cal. Pub. Util. Cde § 216; Cal. Pub. Util. Cde § 218.
An interconnection customer who wants to connect a generating facility to the California ISO grid must apply and meet the requirements set out by the California Independent System Operator.
All generating facilities seeking interconnection with the Distribution Providers Transmission System must apply with CAISO for interconnection and are subject to the CAISO tariff. Those generating facilities, subject to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) jurisdiction must apply under a Distribution Provider’s Wholesale Distribution Tariff (WDT) regardless of whether they interconnect to a Distribution Provider’s Distribution or Transmission System. Cal. Pub. Util. Code, Rule 21 Generating Facility Interconnections; California Public Utility Commission Decision 12-09-018, Revising Tariff Rule 21.
A “public utility” and “cooperative electrical associations” which choose not to be regulated as public utilities must obtain a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the Colorado Public Utilities Commission.4 CCR 723-3-3206, Construction or Extension of Transmission Facilities.
Public utilities before construction and extension of transmission facilities in the state.
A “public utility” includes “every common carrier, pipeline corporation…electrical corporation,… person, or municipality operating for the purpose of supplying the public for domestic, mechanical, or public uses and every corporation, or person declared by law to be affected with a public interest” providing electric, steam, or associated services in the state of Colorado. “Electrical utilities” is defined, in part, as “…every…electrical corporation, person, or municipality operating for the purpose of supplying the public for domestic, mechanical or public uses.” CRS 40-1-103; 4 CCR 723-3-3001(oo); C.R.S. 40-1-103(1)(a)(I).
Both the state and local governments are involved in the transmission permitting process. A developer may need to comply with state and local permitting requirements.
Local governments may regulate areas and activities of state interest. The statute defines “major facilities of a public utility” , in part, as “transmission lines, power plants and substations of electrical utilities.” Colorado - C.R.S. 24-65.1-203 - Activities of State Interest as Determined by Local Government.
A developer must obtain a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity “…prior to any [public] utility construction…” from the Illinois Commerce Commission (“ICC”). Illinois Public Utilities Act (220 I.L.C.S §§ 5 et seq.).
A public utility (developer) constructing any new plant, equipment, property, or facility. 220 I.L.C.S § 5/8-406.
Illinois does not currently have a state specific interconnection request process.
A developer, who does not operate as a public utility in the state of Indiana, but plans to build transmission lines in the state capable of carrying voltages of 100kV or greater, must obtain authority to operate as a public utility from the Indiana Regulatiry Commission. Afterwards, the developer needs to obtain siting permissions from local authorities where the proposed transmission lien will be located. Indiana Code § 8-1-38.
If the developer is a "new electric transmission owner" it must receive authority from the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission to operate as a public utility when constructing new transmission lines.
A "new electric transmission owner" is a corporation, or other organization that on the date of its incorporation or organization do not own operate or maintain an electric transmission facility located in whole or in part in Indiana, but is presently organized to construct, own, operate and maintain an electric transmission facility." An "electric transmission facility" means a high voltage transmission line with a rating of at least one hundred (100) kVs and related transmission facilities and controls. Indiana Code § 8-1-38-4.
Indiana does not currently have a state specific interconnection request process.
A developer must obtain an Electric Transmission Line Franchise ("Franchise") from the Iowa Utilities Board in order to construct transmission lines capable of carrying a voltage of 69kV or greater across public or private lands in the state. Iowa – Iowa Code §§ 478 et seq., Electric Transmission Lines.
A "person [must] not construct, erect, maintain, or operate a transmission line, wire or cable" without first obtaining a Franchise from the Iowa Utilities Board.
A transmission facility under the Iowa Utilities Board's jurisdiction is defined as "a transmission line, wire, or cable that will operate at an electric voltage of less than sixty-nine kV." Iowa – Iowa Code §§ 478 et seq., Electric Transmission Lines.
Iowa does not currently have a state specific interconnection request process.
A Public Utility includes any person or corporation who owns, controls, operates or manages any facility used or to be used for the purpose of generation, production, transmission or distribution of electricity to the public KY. Rev. Stat. Ann. §278.010(3) (2011)
"No utility shall begin the construction or installation of any property, equipment, or facility to establish an electrical interconnection with a merchant electric generating facility in excess of ten megawatts (10MW) until the plans and specifications for the electrical interconnection have been filed with the commission" KY. Rev. Stat. Ann. §278.212(1) (2002)
All generating facilities seeking interconnection must apply with the Kentucky Public Service Commission.
In Minnesota, a developer must obtain a Certificate of Need from the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission to site or construct a large energy facility. Minn. Stat. §216B.243(2).
A person constructing any high-voltage transmission line with a capacity of 200 kV or more and longer than 1,500 feet, or greater than 10 miles of its length is located in the State of Minnesota.
A “large energy facility” includes “…any high-voltage transmission line with a capacity of 200 kV or more and greater than ten (10) miles of its length in Minnesota or that crosses a state line…” or “…any high-voltage transmission line with a capacity of 200 kV or more and greater than 1,500 feet in length…” Minn. Stat. §216B.2421(2)(2)-(3).
Minnesota does not currently have a state specific interconnection request process.
A developer may need to obtain a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the Mississippi Public Service Commission for the construction of transmission lines associated with a hydropower facility. Miss. Code Ann. § 77-3-14(1).
To “construct, acquire, extend, or operate equipment” manufacturing, generating, transmitting, or distributing electricity for public sale. Miss. Code Ann. § 77-3-14(1).
A public utility is defined as “persons and corporations…owning or operating…equipment or facilities for: the generation, manufacture, transmission or distribution of electricity to or for the public for consumption.” Miss. Code Ann. § 77-3-3(d)(i).
Mississippi does not currently have a state specific interconnection request process.
In Missouri, an electrical corporation must obtain a Certificate of Convenience and Necessity (CCN) from the Missouri Public Service Commission (MPSC) prior to constructing an electric plant. Mo. Rev. Stat. § 393.170.1.
An electrical corporation constructing an electric plant. Mo. Rev. Stat. § 393.170.1.
An “electric corporation” includes an owner or operator of an electric plant, unless the electric plant exists only for its own use and not for the sale of electricity to others for the purpose of furnishing or transmitting electricity for light, heat, or power. Mo. Rev. Stat. § 393.140.1; Mo. Rev. Stat. § 386.020. An “electric plant” is defined as “. . . all real estate, fixtures and personal property operated, controlled, owned, used or to be used for or in connection with or to facilitate the generation, transmission, distribution, sale or furnishing of electricity for light, heat or power; and any conduits, ducts or other devices, materials, apparatus or property for containing, holding or carrying conductors used or to be used for the transmission of electricity for light, heat or power.” Mo. Rev. Stat. § 386.020(14).
Missouri does not currently have a state specific interconnection request process.
A “major utility transmission facility" is:
An electric transmission line of a design capacity of one hundred twenty-five (125) kilovolts; or more extending a distance of one (1) mile or more, or;
A electric transmission line of one hundred (100) kilovolts or more and less than one hundred twenty-five (125) kilovolts or more, extending a distance of ten (10) miles or more, including associated equipment.”
N.Y. Pub. Serv. Law §120 (2), Definitions
A hydropower developer must file an Interconnection Request with the New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) in order to connect a new generating facility, or merchant transmission facility to the New York State (NYS) Transmission System. A developer may also need to file an Interconnection Request with NYISO for material modifications to an existing large facility or modifications to an existing Interconnection Request. NYISO Transmission Expansion and Interconnection Manual.
"Depending on whether the facility is a large facility or a small generating facility will determine which NYISO Open Access Transmission Tariff (OATT) provisions apply and which NYISO Interconnection Request procedures the developer should adhere to. A generating facility of 20 MW or More or a Merchant Transmission Facility the developer must file a Large Facility Interconnection Request. A small generator project falls under NYISO’s Small Generator Interconnection Procedures (SGIP) if:
The small generator proposes to interconnect to either the NYS Transmission System, or FERC-jurisdictional distribution, and
At least some of the small generator project’s output may be available to the wholesale market."
NYISO Transmission Expansion and Interconnection Manual.
A developer must obtain a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the North Dakota Public Service Commission before constructing transmission lines. N.D.C.C. § 49-03-01(2).
Before constructing transmission lines with a capacity of 115 kV or greater and is longer than one mile. N.D.C.C. § 49-03-01(2).
An Electric Transmission Provider is defined as, “an owner or operator, other than a rural electric cooperative, of a transmission line the costs of which are recovered directly or indirectly through transmission charges to an Electric Public Utility.” N.D.C.C. § 49-03-01.5(4) . An Electric Transmission Line is defined as, “facilities for conducting electric energy at a design voltage of 115 kV or greater phase to phase and more than one mile [1.61 kilometers] long.” N.D.C.C. § 49-03-01.5(3).
North Dakota does not currently have a state specific interconnection request process.
A major utility facility may need to obtain a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need from the Ohio Power Siting Board prior to preparing a site for the construction of an electric transmission line. Ohio Rev. Code. § 4906.04; Ohio Rev. Code. § 4906.98(A)
Ohio Siting Board
Before construction of a "major utility facility," including electric transmission lines and associated facilities with a design capacity of 125 kV or more. Ohio Rev. Code. § 4906.01.
A "major utility facility" means an "electric generating plant and associated facilities designed for, or capable of, operation at a capacity of 50 MW or more and transmission lines and associated facilities with a design capacity of 125 kV or more." Ohio Rev. Code. § 4906.01.
Ohio does not currently have a state specific interconnection request process.
A "public utility" includes any person or corporation owning or operating a facility or equipment for the production, generation, transmission and distribution of electricity to of for the public 66 PA. Const. Stat §102 (1978).
Pennsylvania does not currently have a state specific interconnection request process.
A developer must obtain a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CCN) from the Tennessee Public Utility Commission to construct or operate a "line, plant, or system" for the public sale of electricity. Tenn. Code Ann. §65-4-208(a).
A person, public utility, or corporation, operating, constructing, or extending a transmission line. Tenn. Code Ann. §65-4-201(a).
Tennessee does not currently have a state specific interconnection request process.
A "company" must obtain a Certificate of Public Good from the Vermont Public Service Board to construct any transmission or generation facility. 30 V.S.A. § 248 et seq.
Before construction or operation of transmission line extension projects, or a group net-metered hydroelectric power system interconnections.
A "company" includes individuals, partnerships, associations, corporations, municipalities and certain cooperatives owning or conducting any public service business.
Vermont does not currently have a state specific interconnection request process.
Washington does not a have a state specific certificate process for transmission line development.
A public utility includes an person or incorporation engaged in any business held to be a public service. W. VA. Code §24-1-2 (1913).
West Virginia does not currently have a state specific interconnection request process
A developer may need to obtain a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the Wisconsin Public Service Commission before constructing transmission lines with a capacity of 100 kV or greater. 196 Wis. Stat.§ 196.491.
Before constructing transmission lines with a capacity greater than 100 kV.
"An electric public utility is defined as ""every corporation, company, indvidual, asssociation, town, village, or city that may own, operate, manage or control...all or any pary of a plant or eqipment within thestate, for the production, transmission, delivery or furnishing of hear, light, water, or power either directly or indirectly to or for the public. 196 Wis. Stat. § 196.01(5)(a)-(b). "
Wisconsin does not currently have a state specific interconnection request process.
Hydropower Environmental Review Comparison
Hydropower projects maybe subject to federal and state environmental review. Some states have developed state environmental review processes similar to the federal National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
A developer will be required to go through the NEPA process if the project involves a "major federal action." The level and scope of the NEPA review will vary depending on the nature of the project and to what degree the federal government will be involved. Some actions and projects will receive a categorical exclusion while others may require a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). NEPA review is handled by a "lead agency." A “lead agency" is the federal agency responsible for writing the main NEPA document(s) and coordinating with any other federal, state, or tribal agencies.
State environmental review processes vary between states, but are often similar to NEPA and designate a lead agency to conduct and coordinate the review.
Environmental Review Regulatory Agency
Environmental Review Threshold
Applicable MOU with FERC
Alaska does not currently have a state specific environmental review process.
Arkansas does not currently have a state specific environmental review process.
"The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) is California’s state legislation governing environmental protection issues. The CEQA process runs concurrently to the permit process triggering CEQA. During pre-application, the developer is to identify the appropriate agencies with a stake in the permitting process as well as collect as much background information as possible.
During the application phase, the developer begins filing the necessary environmental permit applications with the appropriate permitting agencies. The lead agency is responsible for coordinating all the environmental permits and initiating the CEQA process.
14 CCR § 15060.
Unless exempt, all “discretionary projects” proposed to be carried out or approved by public agencies, including but not limited to licensing, must go through CEQA review. Discretionary projects are those, which require the exercise of judgment or deliberation, as opposed to merely determining whether there has been compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Cal. Pub. Res. Code § 21080.
Yes, the MOU establishes the principles governing the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s and the California State Water Resources Control Board’s coordination of pre-application activities. Memorandum of Understanding 2013.
Colorado does not currently have a state specific environmental review process.
Illinois does not have a state specific environmental review process.
Indiana's State Environmental Policy Act does not apply to state agencies in the issuing of permits or licenses.
Iowa has an optional environmental review that a developer can choose to initiate. The developer may send a request for an environmental review to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), and IDNR will conduct an environmental review.
The review process is optional.
Kentucky does not currently have a state specific environmental review process.
In Minnesota, a hydropower developer must comply with the Minnesota Environmental Policy Act (MEPA).
Minnesota Department of Commerce, Minnesota Public Utilities Commission
Unless otherwise exempt any governmental unit action or project must comply with MEPA. Minn. Stat. § 116D.04.
Mississippi does not currently have a state specific environmental review process
Missouri does not have a state specific environmental review process.
North Dakota does not have a state specific environmental review process.
Ohio does not currently have a state specific environmental review process.
Pennsylvania does not currently have a state specific environmental review process.
Tennessee does not currently have a state specific environmental review process.
Vermont does not currently have a state specific environmental review process.
The Washington State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) requires all governmental agencies to consider the environmental impacts of a proposal before making decisions. Washington uses an Environmental Checklist and Environmental Review to provide information to help government agencies identify impacts from their proposals and determine whether an Environmental Impact Statement is necessary. Washington State Environmental Policy Act
Washington’s State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) governs Washington’s environmental protection issues within the state. SEPA environmental review is required for any state or local agency decision that meets the definition of an “action” and is not categorically or statutorily exempt. To determine if SEPA review is required, the developer should accurately define the proposal, identifying all related and interdependent pieces of the project, including all permits that the project will require. WAC 197-11-060, Washington State Environmental Policy Act.
West Virginia does not currently have a state specific environmental review process.
The Wisconsin Environmental Policy Act (WEPA) requires state agencies to consider environmental impacts of a proposed project in their decision-making process. State agencies must also look at appropriate alternatives to a particular course of action they are proposing. 1 Wis. Stat. § 1.11.
WEPA requires state agencies to consider environmental impacts in their decision-making process for all proposed projects. If the action is a "major action significantly affecting the quality of the human environment," WEPA requires agencies to consult with other agencies about potential environmental impacts, prepare an environmental impact statement, and hold a public hearing. Citizen Guide to WEPA, a p. 1.
Hydropower Water Quality Comparison
The Clean Water Act (CWA) (33 U.S.C. § 1251 et seq.) requires a Section 404 permit to discharge dredge or fill material into navigable waters of the United States and Section 401 compliance with state water quality standards through a Water Quality Certification process. Both a CWA Section 404 Dredge and Fill Discharge Permit and a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) license require the developer to obtain a CWA 401 Water Quality Certification.
States have the primary responsibility in issuing 401 Water Quality Certifications. Under Section 401(a)(1) of the CWA (33 U.S.C. § 1341), states have the authority to review and approve, condition, waive, or deny a 401 WQC. See also 10 V.S.A. §1004. Some states also require a 401 WQC for FERC exemptions.
401 Certification Regulatory Agency
401 Certification Threshold
Alabama Water Quality
The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) reviews and issues 401 Water Quality Certifications (WQC). The ADEC reviews hydropower projects filed with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) in accordance with 18 AAC 15.180 and may issue a 401 WQC or waiver. 18 AAC 15.180.
Section 401 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) (33 U.S.C. § 1251 et seq.) requires developers, subject to a federal license or permit (e.g., Clean Water Act Section 404 permit, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission license, etc.), to obtain a WQC if the project may result in any discharge into navigable waters of the United States.
Alaska Water Quality
Arizona Water Quality
Arkansas Water Quality
The developer must submit a Section 401 Water Quality Certification Application to the California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) where there is an appropriation of water, a hydroelectric facility licensed or exempted by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), or any other diversion of water for domestic, irrigation, power, municipal, industrial or other beneficial use, if such activity may result in any discharge to a navigable water of the United States. 23 CCR 3855.
Section 401 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) (33 U.S.C. § 1251 et seq.) requires developers subject to a federal license or permit to obtain a 401 Water Quality Certification (WQC) if the project may result in any discharge into the navigable waters of the United States.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) Water Quality Control Division (WQCD) reviews and issues Water Quality Certifications pursuant to Colorado Code of Regulations 5 CCR 1002-82, 401 Water Quality Certification Regulationand Colorado – C.R.S. 25-8-302, Duties of Water Quality Control Division. Under Section 401(a)(1) of the CWA (33 U.S.C. § 1341), states have the authority to review and approve, condition, waive, or deny a 401 WQC . See, also Colorado Code of Regulations 5 CCR 1002-82, 401 Water Quality Certification Regulation and Colorado – C.R.S. 25-8-302, Duties of Water Quality Control Division.
Section 401 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) (33 U.S.C. § 1251 et seq.) requires developers, subject to a federal license or permit (i.e., Clean Water Act Section 404 permit, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission license, etc.) to obtain a 401 Water Quality Certification (WQC) if the project may result in any discharge into navigable waters of the U.S. Water Qualification Certificates issued by the WQCD apply to both the construction and operation of the project for which a federal license or permit is required and apply to all water quality impacts associated with the project, including wetland impact. 5 CCR 1002-82.1. CRS § 25-8-103(19); 5 CCR § 1002-31.27; 5 CCR § 1002-31.5(50).
Colorado Water Quality
Connecticut Water Quality
Delaware Water Quality
United States Water Quality
Georgia Water Quality
Hawaii Water Quality
Idaho Water Quality
The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency reviews and issues site specific 401 Water Quality Certifications. Under Process 401(a)(1) of the CWA (33 U.S.C. § 1341), states have the authority to review and approve, condition, waive, or deny a 401 WQC .
Illinois Water Quality
The Indiana Department of Environmental Management reviews and issues site specific 401 Water Quality Certifications. Under Process 401(a)(1) of the CWA (33 U.S.C. § 1341), states have the authority to review and approve, condition, waive, or deny a 401 WQC .
Indiana Water Quality
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources reviews and issues site specific 401 Water Quality Certifications. Under Process 401(a)(1) of the CWA (33 U.S.C. § 1341), states have the authority to review and approve, condition, waive, or deny a 401 WQC .
Kansas Water Quality
Louisiana Water Quality
Maine Water Quality
Maryland Water Quality
Massachusetts Water Quality
Michigan Water Quality
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency reviews and issues site specific 401 Water Quality Certifications. Under Process 401(a)(1) of the CWA (33 U.S.C. § 1341), states have the authority to review and approve, condition, waive, or deny a 401 WQC .
Minnesota Water Quality
The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality reviews and issues 401 Water Quality Certifications for projects filed with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission that may result in any discharge into the navigable waters of the U.S. Under Process 401(a)(1) of the CWA (33 U.S.C. § 1341), states have the authority to review and approve, condition, waive, or deny a 401 WQC.
Mississippi Water Quality
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources reviews and issues site specific 401 Water Quality Certifications. Under Process 401(a)(1) of the CWA (33 U.S.C. § 1341), states have the authority to review and approve, condition, waive, or deny a 401 WQC .
Montana Water Quality
Nebraska Water Quality
Nevada Water Quality
New Hampshire Water Quality
New Jersey Water Quality
New Mexico Water Quality
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Division of Water Resources reviews and issues 401 Water Quality Certifications (WQC). In addition to projects requiring a 401 WQC for a FERC license or exemption , a 401 WQC is required for projects triggered by a Clean Water Act Section 404 permit from the US Army Corps of Engineers.
Section 401 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) (33 U.S.C. § 1251 et seq.) requires developers, subject to a federal license or permit (e.g., Clean Water Act Section 404 permit, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission license, etc.), to obtain a 401 WQC if the project may result in any discharge into the navigable waters of the U.S.
New York Water Quality
North Carolina Water Quality
The North Dakota Department of Health reviews and issues site specific 401 Water Quality Certifications. Under Process 401(a)(1) of the CWA (33 U.S.C. § 1341), states have the authority to review and approve, condition, waive, or deny a 401 WQC .
North Dakota Water Quality
The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency reviews and issues 401 Water Quality Certifications pursuant to Ohio Admin. Code § 3745-32-01;Ohio Rev. Code § 6111.01.Under Process 401(a)(1) of the CWA (33 U.S.C. § 1341), states have the authority to review and approve, condition, waive, or deny a 401 WQC.
Section 401 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) (33 U.S.C. § 1251 et seq.) requires developers, subject to a federal license or permit (e.g., Clean Water Act Process 404 permit, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission license, etc.), to obtain a 401 WQC if the project may result in any discharge into the navigable waters of the U.S.
Oregon Water Quality
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection ("DEP") reviews and issues 401 Water Quality Certifications pursuant to Pa. Code § 1021. Under Process 401(a)(1) of the CWA (33 U.S.C. § 1341), states have the authority to review and approve, condition, waive, or deny a 401 WQC.
Pennsylvania Water Quality
Rhode Island Water Quality
South Carolina Water Quality
South Dakota Water Quality
The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation reviews and issues 401 Water Quality Certifications pursuant to Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. § 0400-40-07; Tenn. Code Ann. § 69-3. Under Process 401(a)(1) of the CWA (33 U.S.C. § 1341), states have the authority to review and approve, condition, waive, or deny a 401 WQC.
Tennessee Water Quality
The Department of Environmental Conservation, a department within the Agency of Natural Resources reviews and issues 401 Water Quality Certifications. Under Section 401(a)(1) of the CWA (33 U.S.C. § 1341), states have the authority to review and approve, condition, waive, or deny a 401 WQC. 10 V.S.A. §1004.
Section 401 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) (33 U.S.C. § 1251 et seq.) requires developers, subject to a federal license or permit, to obtain a 401 WQC if the project may result in any discharge into the navigable waters of the U.S. In Vermont, ANR also requires a 401 WQC for Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) exemptions. Vermont Agency of Natural Resources Section 401 Water Quality Certification Practice.
Vermont Water Quality
The Washington State Department of Ecology reviews and issues 401 Water Quality Certifications (WQC). Section 401 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) (33 U.S.C. § 1251 et seq.) requires developers subject to a federal license or permit (i.e., Clean Water Act Section 404 permit, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission license, etc.) to obtain a 401 WQC if the project may result in any discharge into the navigable waters of the United States. Under Section 401(a)(1) of the CWA (33 U.S.C. § 1341), states have the authority to review and approve, condition, waive, or deny a 401 WQC.
Section 401 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) (33 U.S.C. § 1251 et seq.) requires developers subject to a federal license or permit (i.e., Clean Water Act Section 404 permit, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission license, etc.) to obtain a 401 Water Quality Certificate (WQC) if the project may result in any discharge into the navigable waters of the United States. Under Section 401(a)(1) of the CWA (33 U.S.C. § 1341), states have the authority to review and approve, condition, waive, or deny a 401 Water Quality Certificate. The developer must submit a 401 WQC application for any hydropower project requiring a FERC license, license amendment, or re-licensing. Washington may require a 401 WQC for FERC exempted hydropower projects.
The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection reviews and issues 401 Water Quality Certifications for projects pursuant to W.V. Code of State Rules § 47-5A;W.V. Code of State Rules §§ 47-2. Under Process 401(a)(1) of the CWA (33 U.S.C. § 1341), states have the authority to review and approve, condition, waive, or deny a 401 WQC.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources reviews and issues 401 Water Quality Certifications. Section 401 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) (33 U.S.C. § 1251 et seq.) requires developers subject to a federal license or permit (i.e., Clean Water Act Process 404 permit, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission license, etc.) to obtain a 401 WQC if the project may result in any discharge into the navigable waters of the United States. Under Process 401(a)(1) of the CWA (33 U.S.C. § 1341), states have the authority to review and approve, condition, waive, or deny a 401 WQC.
Wisconsin Water Quality
Wyoming Water Quality
Hydropower Water Access & Rights Comparison
Water access and water rights are predominantly governed by state law. Based on the nature of the energy resource, hydropower projects require access to water, which in many instances will require a determination by the relevant state authority as to whether a water right is necessary. In addition, a developer may require water for, among other uses, dust suppression for roads and construction activities. Depending on the situation and demands of a project, a developer may seek water from a lease-holder, a municipality, or a permanent water right.
In the western United States, surface water rights are most often governed by a system of prior-appropriation, which allocates rights by priority based on the date of application to a beneficial use; first in time, first in right. While in the eastern United States, surface water rights are governed by a system of riparian rights, which allocates rights based on property ownership adjacent to a body of water. In addition, some states have a hybrid system, such as California, which integrates both the riparian and prior-appropriation doctrines.
Is a Water Right Required for the Project?
A developer must obtain a water right from the DMLW for a hydropower project. In Alaska, a water right is required even for non-consumptive uses of water. 11 AAC 93.035(b).
Prior Appropriation/Riparian Rights Hybrid
Based on the nature of the energy resource, hydropower projects require access to water, which in many instances will require a determination by the state authority as to whether a water right is necessary. Depending on the type of hydropower facility (dam, run-of-river, or pumped storage), the developer may rely upon surface water, groundwater, or municipal wastewater to meet the hydropower project’s water needs. The developer of a hydropower project may also require water for other purposes, such as dust suppression for roads and construction activities.
A developer needs a water right for consumptive surface or groundwater uses. A hydropower developer will need a water right for the construction of a reservoir to hold water or a canal that feeds a hydropower plant or pump storage facility. All surface and groundwater in Colorado is a public resource and must be put to beneficial use. Colorado considers power generation a beneficial use, along with commercial, industrial, and water storage uses, instream flows, and dust suppression. Colorado Small Hydropower Handbook, at p. 10; Citizens Guide to Colorado Water Law, at p. 7.
Georgia Water
Massachusetts Water
New Hampshire Water
No, but a developer may need to obtain a Protection of Waters Permit from the Department of Environmental Conservation if the project will modify or disturb the course, channel or bed of any stream or remove any sand, gravel or other material from the bed or banks of a stream.
Rhode Island Water
South Carolina Water
South Dakota Water
No, but a developer may need to obtain a Lake Encroachment Permit or a Stream Alteration Permit from the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation.
Yes, a hydropower developer must obtain a water right or other approval from the Washington Department of Ecology or a local conservancy board to withdraw or divert public surface or groundwater of the State for beneficial use. A developer may also need to obtain a Reservoir Permit from the Department of Ecology to construct an impoundment and store water, for beneficial use, in a reservoir. In addition, a developer may need to obtain a Hydraulic Project Approval for any project that diverts, obstructs, or changes the natural flow or bed of any State water.
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This page was last modified on 24 August 2017, at 14:09.