The MoU will facilitate a more efficient and coordinated process for license applications and water quality certifications that include consultation, environmental scoping, study planning and commenting on an applicant’s preliminary licensing proposal.
As per the MoU, the parties have also agreed to set deadlines to ensure a timely process and actively participate in study plan development.
Additionally, SWRCB will participate in FERC’s environmental scoping process and identify studies and information necessary for water quality certification.
The MoU will also focus on conventional hydropower projects including pumped storage projects, and will not pertain to offshore hydrokinetic projects.
FERC office of energy projects director Jeff Wright said the MoU will offer for a more coordinated process that will help FERC, the California Water Board and stakeholders associated with hydropower development in California.
"Thank you to FERC staff and the staff at the State Water Board who worked diligently to make this MoU a reality," added Wright.
