Vermont Hydro Projects Under Federal Commerce Microscope
Published Date: 8/26/2025
Notice
Summary
Green Mountain Power’s Middlesex and Gorge Hydroelectric Projects in Vermont might need new federal licenses because the government is checking if they fall under federal rules. This could affect how the projects operate and might lead to changes in costs or regulations. People and groups have until a set deadline to share their thoughts or get involved in the decision.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Projects May Need Federal Licenses
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is reexamining whether the Middlesex (river mile 49.3) and Gorge (river mile 10.6) Hydroelectric Projects on the Winooski River in Vermont must be federally licensed under section 23(b)(1) of the Federal Power Act. If the Commission finds they meet those criteria (navigability, use of federal lands, use of waterpower from a government dam, or post‑August 26, 1935 construction affecting interstate commerce), the projects would be subject to federal licensing requirements.
Navigability Standards That Will Be Applied
The Commission will evaluate navigability under FPA section 3(8) using whether the stream is currently used, was used in the past, or could be made suitable for interstate or foreign commerce, including demonstrations based on physical characteristics or evidence of recreational boating or seasonal log flotation. The 1979 non‑jurisdictional finding relied on lack of evidence of running logs above Winooski Falls and will be reexamined.
Public Comment and Intervention Deadline
The Commission is soliciting comments, protests, and motions to intervene in the jurisdictional inquiry; submissions must be filed by October 6, 2025, by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Anyone may file comments or protests, but only those who file a motion to intervene may become a party to the proceedings (use docket numbers UL25-2-000 and/or UL25-4-000).
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