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Understanding the Federal Power Act: A Comprehensive Overview
Definition & Meaning
The Federal Power Act is a federal law enacted in 1935 that governs the regulation of non-federal hydropower projects in the United States. Its primary purpose is to ensure the comprehensive development of rivers for energy generation. Officially titled the "Federal Regulation and Development of Power," the Act transformed the Federal Power Commission from an interdepartmental body into an independent agency. This agency, now known as the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), consists of five members who are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. The Act grants the Commission the authority to issue licenses for hydroelectric projects, including the construction of dams and reservoirs, to enhance navigation and power generation.
Table of content
Legal Use & context
The Federal Power Act is primarily used in the context of energy regulation and environmental law. It is relevant for legal professionals working with hydropower projects, energy companies, and environmental advocacy groups. Legal practitioners may encounter this Act when dealing with licensing, regulatory compliance, and disputes related to hydropower development. Users can benefit from legal templates available through US Legal Forms to navigate the licensing process and other related procedures efficiently.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A company seeks to build a new hydroelectric dam on a river. They must apply for a license from FERC under the Federal Power Act, ensuring they meet all regulatory requirements and consider environmental impacts.
Example 2: A local community opposes a proposed hydropower project due to concerns about its environmental effects. They can participate in the licensing process to voice their concerns and influence the decision (hypothetical example).
Relevant laws & statutes
The Federal Power Act itself is the primary statute governing hydropower regulation in the U.S. Other relevant laws include the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), which mandates environmental reviews for federal projects, including those licensed under the Federal Power Act.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Difference
Federal Power Act
A federal law regulating non-federal hydropower projects.
Focuses specifically on hydropower and energy generation.
National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
A law requiring environmental assessments for federal projects.