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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Hydropower
- What type of turbines are used in hydro projects on the lower Penobscot?
- Why are some projects exempt from FERC regulation?
- How do I file sufficient notice of intent to develop a hydroelectric facility and what information is needed?
- What type of turbines are used in hydro projects on the lower Penobscot?
If you consider the Lower Penobscot to be the stretch of river below Howland, Maine, the following Projects would apply:- 2312-ME, Old Town - 11 turbines, 3 Kaplan; 8 Francis
- 2403-ME, Veazie - 17 turbines, 2 Fixed Blade; 15 Francis
- 2534-ME, Milford - 4 turbines, 1 Fixed Blade; 3 Kaplan
- 2600-ME, West Enfield - 2 turbines, 2 Kaplan
- 2710-ME, Orono - 4 turbines, 4 Camel Back
- 2712-ME, Stillwater - 4 turbines, 4 Camel Back
The application for license for the Basin Mills Project, 10981-ME, which would have included a new dam and changed the operation of the Veazie and Orono Projects, was rejected by the Commission several years ago. Also Stillwater and Orono are actually on the Stillwater River, close to the confluence to the Penobscot. The Orono Project has not been in operation for several years while the licensee reviews the Project's operability in lieu of the Basin Mills application being rejected. - Why are some projects exempt from FERC regulation?
The issuance of an exemption does not mean exempt from regulation or deregulation. It is a less comprehensive form of regulation (as compared with regulations governing the issuance of a license) intended for projects that should, by their size and location, have minimal impacts. The Commission may exempt from some or all licensing requirements two types of projects where new capacity is being added: (1) conduit-projects on manmade conduits (generally irrigation works); and (2) 5 megawatt-projects proposing additional capacity (for a total of 5 MW or less) and using an existing dam or natural water feature. The extent of information required in an exemption application is generally much less than what is required in a license application. However, most of the same procedural steps apply to both license and exemption applications. Exemptees must comply with the terms and conditions of their exemptions, which generally are conditions set by federal and state fish and wildlife agencies, just as licensees must comply with the terms and conditions of their license. The Commission ensures that conditions in both licenses and exemptions are complied with. Also, Commission dam safety engineers inspect all licensed and exempted projects. - How do I file sufficient notice of intent to develop a hydroelectric facility and what information is needed?
Compliance information can be found in our Hydroelectric Compliance page, and more information about Hydropower is located in our Hydropower section.
