The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has certified incremental generation at the 39.35-MW Rumford Falls hydroelectric project in Maine to be eligible for renewable energy production tax credits.
FERC certified incremental generation from upgrades to runners of both turbines at 12.8-MW Lower Station, one of two powerhouses at Rumford Falls (No. 2333). Lower Station began operating in 1954 on the Androscoggin River. The other powerhouse, 26.55-MW Upper Station, began service in 1903.
FERC certified the incremental generation June 27. Historic average annual energy production of both developments is 271,470 MWh. The increase in generation from the Lower Station upgrades is expected to boost average annual generation by about 8,600 MWh, a 3.2 percent increase.
Licensee Rumford Falls Hydro LLC is affiliated with Brookfield Renewable Power, which submitted the application for certification. Brookfield purchased the project for C$165 million (US$162 million) in 2006. (HNN 6/9/06)
The Energy Policy Act of 2005 provides that FERC certify incremental hydropower generation for renewable energy production tax credits. Incremental production gains from efficiency improvements or capacity additions to existing hydro facilities must be placed in service before Jan. 1, 2009.
Congress is considering legislation that would extend expiring production tax credits for renewables, including some hydropower. (HNN 6/26/08)
