Maine Hydro Dam to Power Down for Costlier Green Shift
Published Date: 1/22/2025
Notice
Summary
Kennebunk Light and Power District wants to shut down its Lower Mousam Hydroelectric Project in Maine because cheaper electricity options are available. They plan to remove all power equipment and secure the site but keep the dams in place. The government will prepare an environmental report by April 30, 2025, and ask for public feedback before making a final decision.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Environmental Assessment with 30‑day Comment
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission staff will issue an Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Lower Mousam Hydroelectric Project by April 30, 2025. When issued, the EA will be released for a 30-day public comment period, and all comments filed on the EA will be reviewed and considered in the Commission’s final decision.
Planned Decommissioning, Dams Left In Place
The licensee proposes to surrender the Lower Mousam Hydroelectric Project and decommission it by removing all flashboards, disconnecting generator leads, and removing all generation and electrical equipment while securing each project development with fencing; the dams would remain in place and no ground‑disturbing activities are proposed other than fencing.
Public Assistance Offered for Participation
The Commission’s Office of Public Participation (OPP) can help members of the public — including landowners, environmental justice communities, and Tribal members — access project information and navigate filings like interventions and comments; OPP contact information is provided in the notice.
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