Various federal environmental laws apply to DOE loans and loan guarantees, including Title XVII loan guarantees. These laws include:
NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT (NEPA)
The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requires DOE to consider the environmental effects of proposed actions to inform agency decision making. Analyses and documentation prepared to comply with NEPA may include a Categorical Exclusion, Environmental Assessment, or an Environmental Impact Statement.
- Environmental Impact Statements
- Environmental Assessments
- Categorical Exclusions
- Interagency Agreements
NEPA-RELATED PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT
The above link presents the Loan Programs Office’s NEPA-related hearings, public meetings, and public notices (e.g. public scoping meeting, public hearing, notice of proposed floodplain or wetland action).
OTHER APPLICABLE ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS
NATIONAL HISTORIC PRESERVATION ACT
The National Historic Preservation Act requires that DOE assess the effects of proposed actions on historic and archeological resources, and sites of religious and cultural significance to Tribes. DOE must consult with state historic preservation officials and Tribes to determine if an action adversely affects any historic properties.
The Endangered Species Act requires that DOE assess the impact of proposed actions on federally listed threatened and endangered species and their critical habitat. DOE must consult with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service if endangered species are affected by a project.
Other Federal laws, regulations and Executive Orders concerning wetlands and floodplains may require consultation with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers or Federal Emergency Management Agency. Other laws that apply to both federal and private projects, such as the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and hazardous waste management laws.
The Environmental Compliance Division is responsible for assuring that the LPO complies with these and other environmental review requirements. In cooperation with applicants, the team prepares environmental review documents, consults with relevant federal, state, local, and Tribal agencies, and oversees public involvement in the environmental review of DOE’s proposed actions.