MassDEP Public Hearings Wednesday, May 29 Regarding 401 WQC for the FirstLight Hydroelectric Re-Licensing Project
FirstLight Power (FirstLight) has filed an application with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to relicense the Connecticut River hydroelectric facilities in Turners Falls and Montague and the pumped storage facility in Northfield under the Federal Power Act, 16 U.S.C. § 797(e). As a part of the federal relicense application filed with FERC, FirstLight must also apply for a 401 Water Quality Certification (WQC) from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP).
MassDEP opened public comment period on Monday, April 29. The public will have these opportunities to submit comment:
Formal written public comments will be accepted until 5:00PM on June 3, 2024. Written comments may be sent electronically via email to dep.hydro@mass.gov which must include "FirstLight 401 WQC" in the subject line in order to be considered by MassDEP. Do not use the contact form on this webpage to submit comments on the WQC application during this comment period that lasts until June 3, 2024. In lieu of electronic submittal, paper comments may be mailed to:
MassDEP will conduct two virtual public hearings to hear oral comments regarding the WQC application on May 29, 2024 at 1:30PM and 7:00PM. Please register in advance by clicking the date and time of the hearing you would like to attend:MassDEP - BWR
Attn: FirstLight 401WQC
100 Cambridge Street, Suite 900
Boston, MA 02114
1:30 PM Registration
7:30 PM Registration