Energy Thirst Quenched: Millions of Gallons Approved Daily
Published Date: 3/12/2026
Notice
Summary
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission renewed water use approvals for several energy projects in Pennsylvania during February 2026. These projects, mostly drilling pads, can each use millions of gallons of water daily, helping keep energy production flowing smoothly. If you live or work near Susquehanna, Lycoming, Clinton, or Bradford counties, these updates might affect local water use and energy jobs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 0 costs, 2 mixed.
High Daily Withdrawals Approved (Up to 7.5000 mgd)
Several renewed approvals authorize individual drilling pads to consumptively use up to 4.0000, 5.0000, 6.0000, or 7.5000 million gallons per day (mgd). Examples include multiple pads authorized for up to 5.0000 mgd on February 18, 2026 and several Expand Operating LLC pads authorized for up to 7.5000 mgd on February 20–27, 2026.
Renewed Water-Use Approvals in Pennsylvania
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission renewed approvals by rule during February 1–28, 2026 for multiple energy project sites in Pennsylvania. The notice lists specific drilling pads in Susquehanna, Lycoming, Clinton, Bradford, Tioga, Centre, and Wyoming counties with their approval dates (e.g., February 18, 20, 23, 24, and 27, 2026).
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-09314 — Grandfathering Registration Notice
If you run a water project in the Susquehanna River Basin, this notice is for you! The Commission is reissuing 'grandfathered' registrations for certain projects, like Danville’s water system, during April 2026. This means some projects keep their old permissions without new fees or changes, but you gotta act within the set dates to stay in the clear.
2026-07201 — Grandfathering Registration Notice
If you run certain water projects in the Susquehanna River Basin, you needed to register by March 31, 2026, to keep your old permissions (called 'grandfathering'). This notice lists two companies that got their registrations approved, so they can keep using water without new permits. No new fees were mentioned, but missing the deadline could mean extra paperwork or costs later.
2026-07199 — Projects Approved for Consumptive Uses of Water
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission gave the green light to several water use projects in March 2026, mostly renewing permits for companies to use millions of gallons of water daily. These approvals affect local businesses in Pennsylvania, allowing them to keep operating without interruption. If you’re in the area, expect these projects to continue smoothly, with no new fees or delays announced.
2026-05817 — Public Hearing
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission is hosting a public hearing on April 23, 2026, where folks can speak up about water projects that might affect local water use. This is the only chance to give live comments before the Commission decides on these projects at their June 4 meeting. Written comments are due by May 4, so don’t miss your shot to weigh in on water withdrawals and renewals that impact communities in Pennsylvania.
2026-05822 — Actions Taken at the March 12, 2026 Meeting
On March 12, 2026, the Susquehanna River Basin Commission gave the green light to 16 water projects, including some big renewals and a water use increase for Amazon’s data center. They also updated their investment rules and approved new grants to support environmental efforts. These moves affect local communities and businesses by managing water use wisely and supporting conservation, with some changes kicking in right away.
2026-04864 — General Permit Notice
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission gave the green light to several fish nursery projects in Pennsylvania during February 2026. These permits let groups withdraw specific amounts of water from local streams and wells to support fish farming without extra fees or delays. If you’re involved in water use or fish nurseries in this area, these approvals keep things flowing smoothly and on schedule.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-04861 — Notice of Continuation and Request for Applications for the Industry Trade Advisory Committees
The U.S. government is renewing the Industry Trade Advisory Committees (ITACs) for another four years and is looking for new members to join. If you’re interested in helping shape trade policies and agreements, apply by April 2, 2026. This is a great chance for qualified folks to influence important trade decisions and be part of a key advisory team.
Next: 2026-04863 — Grandfathering Registration Notice
If you have water projects in the Susquehanna River Basin, this notice is for you! The Susquehanna River Basin Commission is listing projects that got special 'grandfathered' registration during February 2026, meaning they’re officially recognized under old rules. This helps certain companies keep using water without new fees or permits, but only if they registered by February 28, 2026.