Understanding the Qualifying Small Power Production Facility: Legal Insights
Definition & meaning
A qualifying small power production facility is a type of energy production site that meets specific criteria set by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). To qualify, the facility must:
Be classified as a small power production facility.
Meet requirements regarding fuel use, efficiency, and reliability as determined by FERC.
Be owned by an individual or entity not primarily engaged in the generation or sale of electric power, except for power generated from cogeneration or small power production facilities.
Table of content
Everything you need for legal paperwork
Access 85,000+ trusted legal forms and simple tools to fill, manage, and organize your documents.
This term is primarily used in energy regulation and environmental law. It pertains to facilities that generate electricity from renewable resources, such as wind or solar power. Legal practitioners may encounter this term when dealing with energy regulations, permits, and compliance issues. Users can manage related forms and procedures using resources like US Legal Forms, which provides templates for various legal documents.
Key Legal Elements
Real-World Examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A community-owned solar farm that produces electricity solely for local consumption and is not operated by a commercial electric utility may qualify as a qualifying small power production facility.
Example 2: A wind turbine installation owned by a farmer who uses the electricity for their farm operations, rather than selling it commercially, could also meet the criteria. (hypothetical example)
Relevant Laws & Statutes
The primary statute governing qualifying small power production facilities is found in the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act (PURPA), specifically under 16 USCS § 796. This law outlines the definitions and regulatory framework for small power production facilities.
Comparison with Related Terms
Term
Definition
Key Differences
Small Power Production Facility
A facility that generates electricity using renewable resources.
Qualifying small power production facilities must meet specific ownership and regulatory criteria.
Cogeneration Facility
A facility that produces electricity and useful heat simultaneously.
Cogeneration facilities focus on producing both electricity and heat, while qualifying small power facilities primarily generate electricity.
Common Misunderstandings
What to Do If This Term Applies to You
If you believe your facility may qualify as a qualifying small power production facility, consider the following steps:
Review the criteria set by FERC to ensure compliance.
Consult with a legal professional who specializes in energy law for tailored advice.
Explore US Legal Forms for templates related to energy regulation and compliance.
Quick Facts
Typical Fees: Varies by state and facility size.
Jurisdiction: Federal and state energy regulatory bodies.
Possible Penalties: Non-compliance can result in fines or revocation of operating permits.
