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Public utilities

Vermont Public Utility Commission Approves Changes to Molly's Falls Hydroelectric Facility

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Vermont Public Utility Commission has approved modifications to the emergency spillway project at the Molly's Falls Dam in Cabot, Vermont, as requested by Green Mountain Power Corporation. The changes aim to improve public safety during the construction period and address environmental concerns raised by the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Commission adopted the proposed changes to the emergency spillway project, which include tree clearing, design modifications, and access road improvements.
  • Green Mountain Power Corporation will modify the construction laydown area to avoid a Class II wetland area and widen the access road to 14 feet, allowing for safe travel of construction vehicles.
  • Approximately 2.5 acres of trees will be cleared, including 0.49 acres in 2022, in accordance with the conditions of the Tree Clearing MOU.
  • The Commission determined that the changes to the ES Project will not have an undue adverse effect on the public good, considering the criteria of 10 V.S.A. § 1086.
  • Green Mountain Power Corporation will obtain an amendment to Wetlands Permit No. 2018-513.03 before beginning any unpermitted earth disturbance or construction activities.
  • All conditions of Orders in Case Nos. 20-2570-PET, 21-2501-INV, and 18-2549-PET remain in full force and effect.

Statistics:

  • Approximately 2.5 acres of trees will be cleared.
  • 0.49 acres of trees will be cleared in 2022.
  • 2 acres of trees were previously cleared in the deer wintering area subject to the investigation and penalty in Case No. 21-2501-INV.
  • The Commission determined that the changes to the ES Project will not affect current electric rates.
  • The improvements to the access road will provide a public safety benefit during construction.

Sources:

  • Vermont Public Utility Commission. [ORDER APPROVING CHANGES TO MOLLY'S FALLS DAM EMERGENCY SPILLWAY PROJECT]. Case No. 22-0231-PET. (03/30/2022).
  • Vermont Public Utility Commission. [FINAL ORDER IN CASE NO. 20-2570-PET APPROVING THE EMERGENCY SPILLWAY PROJECT AT THE MOLLY'S FALLS DAM]. Case No. 20-2570-PET. (March 23, 2021).
  • Vermont Agency of Natural Resources. [COMMENTS]. Case No. 22-0231-PET. (February 15, 2022).
  • Department of Public Service. [COMMENTS]. Case No. 22-0231-PET. (February 23, 2022).

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