S. 1020Signed into lawEnvironment & energy
FERC gains power to extend deadlines for licensed hydropower projects
Data as of July 12, 2026
Hydropower companies licensed before March 13, 2020 can now get up to 6 extra years to start construction.40-second read · 4 questions answered below
Decoded
What does this do?
This law lets FERC grant hydropower companies up to 6 additional years, in three 2-year extensions, beyond the standard 8-year construction start deadline, for projects licensed before March 13, 2020. Companies must request the extension and show good cause. FERC can also reinstate licenses that expired between late 2023 and the law's signing, then apply the new extension.
Who does it affect?
Hydropower project developers with FERC licenses issued before March 13, 2020 are directly affected, along with nearby communities, environmental groups, and electric utilities tied to these projects.
Why does it matter?
The change affects how quickly hydropower projects move forward, potentially slowing the timeline for construction to begin while preserving companies' federal licenses. It does not create new projects or approve new sites.
Where does it stand?
- Introduced
- Senate committee
- Senate vote
- House
- President's desk
Right now: the President signed it. It's law.Now law
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Official title
A bill to require the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to extend the time period during which licensees are required to commence construction of certain hydropower projects.
- Introduced:
- March 13, 2025
- Latest action:
- May 11, 2026
Became Public Law No: 119-90.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
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