FERC issues new operating license for Conowingo Hydroelectric Project
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) issued a new 50-year operating license for the Conowingo Hydroelectric Project in Pennsylvania and Maryland.
The project – owned by Exelon Generation — provides 570.15 megawatts of renewable capacity. It is located on the Susquehanna River in Lancaster and York Counties, Penn., and Cecil and Harford Counties, Md.
Exelon officials say the license paves the way for long-term investments that will enhance water quality, fish and eel passage, aquatic habitats, and debris removal. It also enables the continued operation of Maryland’s largest source of renewable energy.
“This license renewal is a big win for Maryland’s environment and economy, paving the way for up to $700 million in improvements that will benefit Chesapeake Bay water quality and aquatic life,” said Bryan Hanson, executive vice president and chief generation officer at Exelon. “As a result, the Conowingo Dam will continue to help Maryland achieve its long-term renewable and clean energy goals, combatting air pollution and helping preserve the Bay for another half-century.”
The issue had been pending before FERC for almost eight years. The renewal incorporates settlements involving Exelon, the Department of the Interior, and the Maryland Department of the Environment. It includes conditions to enhance fish migration, protect Bald Eagles and other wildlife, upgrade 13 public recreation sites, address sediment issues and protect archaeological and historic sites.
Specifically, the new license conditions include changes in the flow regime that will enhance habitat for aquatic species like American shad and river herring and submerged aquatic vegetation. Further, there are new programs for mussel restoration, fish and eel-passage, turtle management, and waterfowl-nesting.
“As Conowingo Dam employees, we take pride in knowing that we have provided clean energy to our region for over 90 years and will continue to make this state a better place to live,” Conowingo Dam Plant Manager Dusty McKeown said. “This new license will further our efforts to protect and preserve the Chesapeake Bay and allow future generations of Marylanders to enjoy the many benefits of the dam for the next half-century.”
