Virginia James River Hydro Plan Sparks Public Scoping Session
Published Date: 3/6/2025
Notice
Summary
Scott's Mill Hydro, LLC wants to build a new hydroelectric project on the James River in Virginia. The government is asking the public to share their thoughts by March 28, 2025, to help shape the project’s review. This could affect local communities and the environment, and it’s the first step before any money or construction decisions happen.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
New 4.5 MW Hydroelectric Project Proposed
Scott's Mill Hydro, LLC proposes a new hydroelectric project on the James River that would install nine turbine-generator units (total 4.5 megawatts) and create an impoundment with a 303.4-acre surface area at a normal pool elevation of 516.4 feet NAVD88. The proposal includes modifying the dam (removing the top 6.8 feet of the arch-section spillway and adding 2-foot-high flashboards to the main spillway) and building a new 1,200-foot-long transmission line to connect to an existing substation.
New River Recreation Access Features
Scott's Mill proposes to build recreational facilities including two eel ramps, a fishing pier downstream of the eastern end of the dam, a portage trail around the eastern side of the dam, and a boat ramp with a parking area on the eastern bank near Harris Creek. These features are part of the project proposal described in the filing.
Run‑of‑River Operation and Flow Changes
Scott's Mill proposes to operate the project in run-of-river mode, maintaining the impoundment at least 1 inch above the top of 2-foot flashboards and producing continuous spill flows over the main spillway of between 30 and 40 cubic feet per second (cfs). The applicant notes possible excavation of a downstream riffle area and Anthony Island to balance downstream flows.
Public Scoping Comment Deadline
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is asking for written scoping comments on the Scott's Mill Hydroelectric Project by March 28, 2025. You can file electronically via FERC's eFiling or eComment systems or mail paper comments to the Commission addresses listed in the notice.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-10313 — Commission Information Collection Activity (Ferc-549); Comment Request; Extension
FERC is extending its current paperwork rules for natural gas transactions for another three years with no changes. This affects companies involved in certain gas deals, but there’s no new cost or extra work. If you want to share your thoughts, you’ve got until June 22, 2026, to speak up!
2026-10314 — Western Area Power Administration; Notice of Filing
The Western Area Power Administration fixed a small mistake in its power rate records that started April 1, 2026. This update mainly affects customers and companies using their power rates, with a chance to comment or protest by June 4, 2026. No big money changes are announced, but folks should act fast if they want to speak up!
2026-10223 — Southwest Gas Storage Company; Notice of Request Under Blanket Authorization and Establishing Intervention and Protest Deadline
Southwest Gas Storage Company wants to close and plug five old, leaky wells and related pipes in Oklahoma to keep their gas storage running smoothly. This cleanup helps stop salty water from causing problems and keeps things safe and efficient. If you want to speak up or get involved, you’ve got until a set deadline to file your protest or join the discussion.
2026-10091 — Commission Information Collection Activities (FERC-919); Comment Request; Extension
FERC is extending its current info collection rules for another three years without any changes. This affects public utilities that sell electricity at market-based rates, making sure their prices stay fair. If you want to share your thoughts, you’ve got until July 20, 2026, to comment—no extra costs or new paperwork coming your way!
2026-10095 — Commission Information Collection Activities (FERC-725S); Comment Request; Extension
FERC is asking for public comments to extend the approval of a key info collection about emergency power rules—no changes, just a renewal. This affects electric companies that help keep the lights on during emergencies. Comments are due by July 20, 2026, and there’s no new cost or paperwork increase involved.
2026-09998 — Revisions to Oil Pipeline Regulations Pursuant to the Energy Policy Act of 1992; Notice of Annual Change in the Producer Price Index for Finished Goods
Starting July 1, 2026, oil pipelines will update their maximum rates using a new number based on the Producer Price Index for Finished Goods, adjusted down by 0.55%. This change means pipeline rates can go up by about 1.4% for the next year. Pipeline companies and customers should get ready for this small but important price update that keeps things fair and predictable.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-02471 — Noise Exposure Map Notice; Palm Beach County Park Airport, West Palm Beach, FL
The FAA has reviewed and approved the noise maps for Palm Beach County Park Airport in West Palm Beach, FL. This means the airport’s noise levels and impact areas are officially recognized and meet all rules. Residents and local planners can now use this info to manage noise and plan for the future, with no new costs or changes right now.
Next: 2025-03572 — Appointment of Members of Senior Executive Service Performance Review Board
The ONDCP just named four new members to their Senior Executive Service Performance Review Board, with Ms. Martha Gagné leading as Chair. These folks will help review and rate top executives' work to keep things running smoothly. No big money changes or deadlines, just fresh faces ready to keep the team on track!