Docket No. RM26-3-000 | Federal Register Publication Date November 25, 2025
At a Glance
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) is seeking public input on whether and how to streamline authorizations for certain post-licensing activities at licensed hydropower projects—such as maintenance, repairs, and upgrades—and whether some activities could occur without case-specific approval under Part I of the Federal Power Act.
Who May Be Interested
Hydropower licensees
Tribes
Landowners
Recreation groups
State and local agencies
Communities near hydropower facilities
What you can do
Submit comments by January 26, 2026.
Overview
FERC opened this proceeding as a Notice of Inquiry (NOI) to gather public input on potential process changes related to post-licensing activities at hydropower facilities. These activities can include routine maintenance, repairs, or infrastructure upgrades that occur during the term of a hydropower license.
The NOI focuses on whether FERC’s existing processes could be improved or streamlined—consistent with the Federal Power Act and other applicable laws—and whether certain post-licensing activities could proceed under existing license authority or a new authorization framework, rather than through case-specific amendment proceedings.
A NOI is not a final decision. It’s a way for FERC to collect perspectives and data before deciding whether to propose changes.
FERC is seeking stakeholder input on topics including, but not limited to:
Which post-licensing activities may be appropriate for a faster, clearer authorization pathway.
Whether there are categories of activities that could occur without case-specific authorization, and what conditions or documentation should apply.
How FERC should ensure continued protection of environmental, cultural, recreational, and community resources while improving clarity and predictability.
Whether FERC should adopt a process similar to existing “blanket authorization” programs used in other contexts, and how such a process could work for hydropower projects.
How to Participate
You can share your views by filing a comment in the docket:
Use eComment for shorter, text-only comments (no attachments), or
Use eFiling if you want to upload a document or include attachments.
You can follow filings and issuances through eLibrary and subscribe to updates through eSubscription.
Tip: In your filing, reference Docket No. RM26-3-000.
There are three methods you can use to submit your comments to FERC.
1. eComment
You can file your comments electronically using the eComment feature in FERC Online. Using eComment is an easy method for submitting brief, text-only comments.
2. eFiling
You can file your comments electronically by using the eFiling feature in FERC Online. With eFiling, you can provide comments in a variety of formats by attaching them as a file with your submission. New eFiling users must first create an account by clicking on “eRegister.” You will be asked to select the type of filing you are making.
3. File a paper copy
You can file a paper copy of your comments by mailing them to FERC. Be sure to reference the Project Docket No. P-14890 on your letter. Submissions sent via the U.S. Postal Service must be addressed to:
Debbie-Anne A. Reese, Secretary
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
888 First Street NE, Room 1A
Washington, DC 20426
Submissions sent via any other carrier must be addressed to:
Debbie-Anne A. Reese, Secretary
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
12225 Wilkins Avenue
Rockville, Maryland 20852
Need help?
The Office of Public Participation (OPP) supports meaningful public engagement in FERC proceedings and can help you navigate FERC processes and filings. You are encouraged to contact OPP staff to learn more about this proposed rulemaking and how to participate by emailing [email protected] or phone at 202-502-6595. All media inquiries should be directed to [email protected].