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Independent regulatory commissions

FERC Delays Construction Authorization for Oro Fino Underground Alignment

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has issued a response to Pacific Gas and Electric Company's construction authorization request for the Oro Fino underground alignment, a part of the DeSabla-Centerville Hydroelectric Project, FERC No. 803. The commission's review of the submittal has identified concerns raised by the Wilton Rancheria Tribe regarding some PG&E undergrounding projects on ancestral lands in the Sacramento Valley. PG&E is required to confirm consultation with the tribe and address their concerns before the authorization can be granted.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has delayed the construction authorization for the Oro Fino underground alignment due to concerns raised by the Wilton Rancheria Tribe.
  • The commission has requested that PG&E confirm consultation with the tribe and address their concerns within 45 days.
  • The DeSabla-Centerville Hydroelectric Project, FERC No. 803, will not proceed until the tribe's concerns are addressed.
  • The commission's review is part of its dam safety program and is aimed at ensuring the project meets safety and environmental standards.
  • Pacific Gas and Electric Company has been directed to eFile their response using the FERC online system and provide a plan and schedule to address the commission's comment.
  • The eFiling system is accessible at https://www.ferc.gov/ferc-online/overview, and assistance can be obtained by contacting FERC Online Support at FERCOnlineSupport@ferc.gov or (866) 208-3676 (toll-free).

Statistics:

  • The commission requires PG&E to address the tribe's concerns within 45 days.
  • The DeSabla-Centerville Hydroelectric Project, FERC No. 803, is a part of the Sacramento Valley hydropower infrastructure.
  • The commission's Division of Hydropower Administration and Compliance is responsible for ensuring the dam safety and environmental compliance of the project.
  • FERC's eFiling system is used for submissions, and assistance is available at FERCOnlineSupport@ferc.gov or (866) 208-3676 (toll-free).

Sources:

  • Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, FERC No. 803, DeSabla-Centerville Hydroelectric Project, 2025
  • Letter dated August 18, 2025, from Frank L. Blackett, P.E., Regional Engineer, San Francisco Regional Office, FERC Document No. 20250818-3035
  • Pacific Gas and Electric Company, Oro Fino Underground Alignment, Project No. 803-CA

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