Pushing Back The Deadline For A Hydroelectric Project In Idaho (S. 276)

What is S. 276?

(Updated November 13, 2014)

This bill was enacted on September 26, 2014

This bill requires the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to reinstate a license that would extend the deadline for beginning a hydroelectric project in American Falls in Idaho.

The bill seeks to push back the deadline by another three years from when the bill passes.

Argument in favor

Hydro power produces clean energy and is worth investing in. If project managers need more time to plan construction, voters should give it to them.

Argument opposed

The bill could bog down the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s workload, who have already granted extensions for this project.

Impact

People in Idaho, and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

Cost of S. 276

The CBO estimates that S.276 would have no major impact on the federal budget.

Additional Info

In Depth:

Sponsoring Rep. James E. Risch (R-ID), also put forth several related bills that support the development of hydroelectricity throughout the country.

The Hydroelectric project at American Falls in Idaho is not expected to significantly impact recreation.

Media:

Idaho Power

(Photo Credit: Flickr user waterarchives)