Opinion ID: 184033
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: The Designation Order

Text: On October 5, 2007, DOE issued its order formally designating two NIETCs, the Mid-Atlantic Area National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor (the Mid-Atlantic Corridor) and the Southwest Area National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor (the Southwest Corridor). 72 Fed.Reg. 56,992 (Oct. 5, 2007). DOE explained its perspective and its rejection of all comments recommending different approaches. [5] DOE reiterated that no environmental study was necessary, explaining: NEPA review is designed to examine the foreseeable, measurable, and predictable consequences of a proposed Federal action; it is not intended to forecast hypothetical or unknowable proposals or results. National Corridor designations have no environmental impact. They are only designations of geographic areas in which DOE has identified electric congestion or constraint problems. 72 Fed.Reg. at 57,022. Finally, in March 2008, DOE issued an order denying rehearing of its Designation Order. 73 Fed.Reg. 12,959 (Mar. 11, 2008). DOE reiterated its determination that no environmental study was needed and further noted that it would be highly speculative for the Department to make assumptions about whether, when, or where FERC might permit transmission facilities. Id. at 12,969.