WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) today introduced legislation to give the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) authority to extend the Jennings-Randolph hydropower dam license so the project has time to secure other required permits and commence construction before its FERC 2-year license expires. Collaboration and engagement are key to identifying challenges and ensuring all parties have an opportunity to be heard. Part of this process is getting the input of the community and addressing any potential impacts to the surrounding region, including the world class fishery of the North Branch of the Potomac at Barnum.
“Investing in critical infrastructure like dams will lead to a stronger economy,” said Senator Capito. “Our commonsense bill will streamline the permitting process for the Jennings-Randolph Hydropower Dam in Mineral County, resulting in more jobs and affordable energy for West Virginians.”
“I have always been an advocate of an all-of-the-above energy policy,” Senator Manchin said. “This bill will provide greater regulatory certainty to the proposed Jennings-Randolph hydropower project, which could prove to be an incredible asset for Mineral County and the entire state of West Virginia. I know how special this area is, and have enjoyed catching trout at Barnum, as well as visiting Jennings Randolph Lake. I intend to visit Mineral County soon to hear more about this proposed project.”
The Jennings-Randolph proposed hydropower project in Mineral County, West Virginia, will generate domestic local energy, as well as create new business and property tax revenue. The project will generate clean, renewable power for over 6,000 homes and create construction and permanent jobs for project operators. This bill gives FERC the authority to extend the Jennings-Randolph license while the project obtains all necessary regulatory permits and commences construction.
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