Frequently Asked Questions

What is FERC relicensing?
Why does the relicensing process last so long?

When will Dominion receive a new license for the Saluda Hydro Project?
How can I get involved in the relicensing process?

What is FERC relicensing?

Most non-Federal hydroelectric projects in the United States are operated under licenses issued by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). The Federal Power Act (FPA) gives FERC the exclusive authority to issue licenses to construct, operate, and maintain certain non-Federal hydropower projects. The relicensing process addresses not only the generation of electricity, but also the natural resources that are present and which may be affected - both positively and negatively - by a project's operation. FERC is required by federal law to consider both power and non-power issues in relicensing hydroelectric facilities.
MORE INFO...

Why does the relicensing process last so long?

The relicensing process will ultimately result in a new license for the Saluda Hydro Project that will govern how the project is operated and its associated resources are managed for the next 30 to 50 years. As such, the process is designed to ensure that all resource issues are identified and that the best available information is used to determine conditions that will best serve and protect the multiple uses of this project.

When will Dominion receive a new license for the Saluda Hydro Project?

The current license for the Saluda Hydro Project is due to expire on August 31, 2010. A new license application must be filed two years before the current license expires. Typically, FERC issues new licenses on or prior to the expiration of the current license.

How can I get involved in the relicensing process?

There are several ways individual and organizations can get involved in the Saluda Hydro Project Relicense. If you would simply like to stay informed about relicensing, you can visit this website often, as it will be updated with information about the process as it begins and progresses. If you would like to make sure that any issues you have are addressed during the process or would like to become actively involved in the process, use the Comment Form on this website to send a note inidicating your interest to the Saluda Hydro Relicense Project Manager.