FERC-510, Application for Surrender of Hydropower License

The Commission is responsible for licensing non-federal hydropower projects if they are on lands or waters subject to Congressional authority. Part I of the Federal Power Act (FPA) gives the Commission the authority to issue licenses for hydroelectric projects on these waters. The Commission issues licenses for terms of up to 50 years that best adapted to a comprehensive plan for improving or developing a waterway or for the use or benefit of interstate or foreign commerce. Licenses are also issued for the improvement and utilization of waterpower development; for the adequate protection, mitigation, and enhancement of fish and wildlife; and for other beneficial public uses, including irrigation, flood control, water supply, recreation. Licenses may be surrendered, but only after the licensee fulfills all obligations of the license and any conditions imposed by the Commission necessary to protect dam safety, public safety and environmental resources. The Commission often needs certain information from the licensee in order to determine the conditions under which a surrender application can be granted.

The latest form for FERC-510, Application for Surrender of Hydropower License expires 2023-10-31 and can be found here.