Summary of HR 2072: Extension of Construction Time for Hydropower Projects

Bill Number: HR 2072

Title: To require the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to extend the time period during which licensees are required to commence construction of certain hydropower projects.

Status: Introduced in House

Introduced Date: March 11, 2025

Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

HR 2072 aims to provide flexibility to licensees of certain hydropower projects by extending the time frame within which they must commence construction. This bill is particularly focused on projects that received their licenses before March 13, 2020, allowing for an additional six years beyond the existing eight-year requirement set forth in the Federal Power Act.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several important provisions:

1. Definition of Covered Projects:

   • A "covered project" is defined as any hydropower project licensed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) before March 13, 2020.

2. Extension of Construction Period:

   • FERC may extend the period for commencing construction of a covered project for up to six additional years.
   • This extension can be granted upon the request of the licensee and must be justified with reasonable notice and good cause.

3. Structure of Extensions:

   • The extension can consist of three consecutive two-year periods.
   • The extension period begins when the final extension under the existing law expires and must conclude no later than six years after that expiration.

4. Reinstatement of Licenses:

   • If the construction commencement period expires after December 31, 2023, and before the enactment of this bill, FERC has the authority to reinstate the license effective from the expiration date.
   • The extension will take effect on the date of the license expiration.

Impact

Who Would Be Affected

• Licensees of Hydropower Projects: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are the licensees of hydropower projects that meet the criteria of being licensed before March 13, 2020. This includes various stakeholders in the hydropower industry who may face challenges in meeting construction deadlines.

• Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC): The bill places additional responsibilities on FERC to manage the extension requests and reinstatement of licenses.

Broader Implications

• Energy Sector: By allowing more time for construction, the bill may facilitate the development of hydropower projects, potentially contributing to renewable energy goals and energy security.

• Environmental Considerations: Extended timelines may also provide opportunities for better environmental assessments and community engagement regarding hydropower projects.

Legislative Actions

• March 11, 2025: The bill was referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce and introduced in the House.

Sponsors

The bill is sponsored by:
- Dan Newhouse (Primary)
- Christopher R. Deluzio (Cosponsor)
- Julia Letlow (Cosponsor)
- Russ Fulcher (Cosponsor)
- CLEO FIELDS (Cosponsor)
- Summer L. Lee (Cosponsor)
- Michael Baumgartner (Cosponsor)

Related Bills

• S 1020: This bill serves as a companion to HR 2072, indicating a parallel legislative effort in the Senate.

This summary provides an overview of HR 2072, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on stakeholders within the hydropower sector.