Sugar River Hydro Eyes Quiet Decommission, Environment Gets Say
Published Date: 8/28/2025
Notice
Summary
Sugar River Hydro II, LLC wants to shut down its hydroelectric project on the Sugar River in New Hampshire by removing electrical gear and closing the water intake, but leaving the dam in place. The government is preparing an environmental check to make sure this shutdown won’t harm the area, with a report expected by March 2026. Local groups and the public have already shared their thoughts, and more feedback will be welcomed soon.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Hydro plant will stop producing power
Sugar River Hydro II filed to surrender its license and proposes to disconnect all generator leads, remove transformers and other electrical equipment, remove hydraulic and governor fluids and reservoirs, and close the penstock intake. The dam and gates would remain in place and an emergency backup system with a dedicated generator would be kept.
FERC will prepare an environmental assessment
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission staff will prepare an environmental assessment (EA) under the National Environmental Policy Act and plans to issue the EA by March 2, 2026. Once issued, the EA will be available for a 30-day public comment period.
No new ground disturbance planned
The licensee does not anticipate any new ground disturbance while securing the powerhouse and closing the penstock intake. The penstock closure plan will be developed with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau.
Public help available to participate
The Commission's Office of Public Participation (OPP) offers assistance to members of the public—including landowners, community organizations, and Tribal members—to access information and help make filings such as comments or interventions. OPP contact information is provided (phone: (202) 502-6595 and email: OPP@ferc.gov).
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