Hydropower - Regulation
Origin of Hydroelectric Regulation
Hydroelectric power regulation was the first work undertaken by
the Federal Power Commission, the Commission's predecessor, after
Congress passed the Federal Water Power Act of 1920.
Subsequent statutes under which the Commission regulates non-federal
hydroelectric power projects that affect navigable waters, occupy
U.S. lands, use water or water power at a government dam, or affect
the interests of interstate commerce include the FPA (Federal
Power Act), the PURPA (Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act),
the Electric Consumers Protection Act of 1986, and the EPAct (Energy
Policy Act of 1992).
This work includes: Issuing preliminary permits, project licenses
and exemptions from licensing; ensuring dam safety; performing
project compliance activities; investigating and assessing payments
for headwater benefits; and coordinating with other agencies.
Licenses
are issued for a term of between 30 to 50 years, and exemptions
are granted in perpetuity. Commission costs are offset by annual
charges collected from license and exemption holders. The Commission
also determines charges for a licensee's use of federal lands,
federal dams, and Native American reservations.
Licensed
projects receive comprehensive safety inspections from Commission
engineers stationed in Washington and at five regional offices.
The Commission is responsible for dam safety at over 2,600 licensed
and exempted dams and related water retention structures. The
dam safety program is a key Commission priority.
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