Require FERC to extend construction time for hydropower projects
May 11, 2026
May 11, 2026
Summary
Allows the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to grant up to six more years for companies to start building certain hydropower projects.
What problem does this solve?
Some companies with licenses to build hydropower projects were running out of time to start construction, risking the loss of their licenses. This law allows the government to give these companies up to six extra years to begin building, and can even bring back recently expired licenses.
What does this law do?
Authorizes construction deadline extensions
Allows the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to grant up to an additional 6 years for licensees to start building certain hydropower projects, upon request and for good reason.
Reinstates recently expired licenses
Allows FERC to bring back licenses for eligible projects that expired after December 31, 2023, but before this law was passed, making them eligible for the extension.
Defines eligible hydropower projects
Specifies that only hydropower projects licensed by FERC before March 13, 2020, are eligible for the construction deadline extension.
Structures the extension period
States that the 6-year extension must be given in no more than three consecutive 2-year periods.
Who does this affect?
- Hydropower companies
- Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
What is the real world impact?
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Supports renewable energy development
Prevents the cancellation of licensed hydropower projects by giving developers more time to overcome construction delays, helping to increase the nation's supply of clean energy.
When does this start?
This law becomes effective on May 11, 2026.