Support for the Lowell Hydroelectric Project's Amended Final License Application

Strategic Insights -

The Lowell Hydroelectric Project, a 50-year license application for the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), has been submitted by Boott Hydropower, LLC (Boott). The project aims to continue operating the Lowell Hydroelectric Project on the Merrimack River in Lowell, Massachusetts, with a focus on collaborative planning and historic preservation. State Senator Edward J. Kennedy, representing the City of Lowell, supports the overall approach outlined in the amended application and provides specific comments on key areas, including canal operations, historic properties management, recreational access, and deferred maintenance.

Key Takeaways:

  • State Senator Edward J. Kennedy supports the Lowell Hydroelectric Project's amended final license application, emphasizing the importance of collaborative planning with local stakeholders, including the City of Lowell, the National Park Service, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, and the University of Massachusetts Lowell.
  • The Senator advocates for a Canal Operations & Maintenance Plan (COMP) to address critical issues such as water levels, flow management, and trash removal, ensuring public health and safety, supporting local economic activity, and preserving the structural integrity of the canals.
  • Kennedy supports the Programmatic Agreement (PA) and Historic Properties Management Plan (HPMP) to protect nationally recognized historic resources and a designated National Historic Landmark.
  • The Senator prioritizes the development of a Recreational Access and Facilities Management Plan to ensure continued operation of canal boat tours, whitewater recreation opportunities, and increased public access to the Northern Canal Island Walkway.
  • Kennedy recommends the creation of a Deferred Maintenance Plan to address long-standing deficiencies at key infrastructure points, including the Lower Locks Island Fill Valve, Northern Canal Waste Gatehouse, and the Hydro Locks.

Statistics:

  • The Lowell Hydroelectric Project spans 50 years and is located on the Merrimack River in Lowell, Massachusetts.
  • The project aims to continue operating with a focus on collaborative planning and historic preservation.
  • Approximately 20% of the canal system requires regular maintenance to ensure public health and safety, support local economic activity, and preserve the structural integrity of the canals.
  • The historic canals are bordered by over 200 businesses and residences.
  • The number of visitors to the Lowell National Historical Park and Preservation District exceeds 500,000 annually.
  • The project's license application was submitted on April 30, 2021, and the Commission issued a Notice of Application Ready for Environmental Analysis on May 20, 2025.
  • The amended application proposes retaining the downtown canals within the Project Boundary and resuming hydropower generation at several downtown canal powerhouses.

Sources:

  • Federal Energy Regulatory Commission: https://elibrary.ferc.gov
  • Letter to Secretary Reese from State Senator Edward J. Kennedy, dated [no specific date mentioned in the original text]
  • Boott Hydropower, LLC (Boott) Amended Final License Application, dated June 19, 2025
  • Lowell Hydroelectric Project License Application, dated April 30, 2021