2025-03674Notice

Maine Rivers' Hydro Future: Final Eco Report Hits the Shelves

Published Date: 3/7/2025

Notice

Summary

The final environmental report is out for four hydroelectric projects on Maine’s Kennebec River, checking how they affect nature and local communities. This update affects local residents, Native tribes, and environmental groups, guiding future project licenses and protection plans. You can review the report online now, with important decisions and possible changes coming soon that could impact the river and energy use.

Analyzed Economic Effects

4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.

Final EIS for Four Kennebec Projects

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission published a Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for four hydroelectric projects on the Kennebec River: Shawmut (FERC No. 2322), Lockwood (FERC No. 2574), Hydro-Kennebec (FERC No. 2611), and Weston (FERC No. 2325). The Final EIS contains staff analysis of the applicant's proposal and alternatives for licensing Shawmut and for amending the licenses for all four projects in Kennebec and Somerset Counties, Maine.

Species Protection Plans Included

The Final EIS includes the proposed Interim Species Protection Plan for the Shawmut Project (FERC No. 2322) and Final Species Protection Plans for the Lockwood (FERC No. 2574), Hydro-Kennebec (FERC No. 2611), and Weston (FERC No. 2325) projects. These plans are part of the Commission's analysis that will inform how licenses address species protection along the Kennebec River.

EIS Available Online via FERC eLibrary

You can view and print the Final EIS on the Commission's website through the FERC eLibrary by entering the docket number (exclude the last three digits). For help, contact FERC Online Support at [email protected], toll-free (866) 208-3676, or TTY (202) 502-8659.

Public Participation Assistance Offered

The Commission's Office of Public Participation (OPP) offers help to the public — including landowners, community organizations, and Tribal members — to access information and navigate FERC processes. For assistance with interventions, comments, or rehearing requests, contact OPP at (202) 502-6595 or [email protected].

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Key Dates

Published Date
3/7/2025

Department and Agencies

Department
Independent Agency
Agency
Energy Department
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
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