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Lafayette Reporter

Friday, November 22, 2024

Senate passes Kennedy bill to protect Louisiana hydropower projects

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Senator John Kennedy | John Kennedy Official Website

Senator John Kennedy | John Kennedy Official Website

The Senate has approved a bill introduced by Sens. John Kennedy and Bill Cassidy to safeguard two hydropower construction projects in Louisiana's Red River. The legislation allows the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to extend hydropower construction permits for the projects, ensuring they can move forward despite pandemic-related delays.

Kennedy emphasized the importance of hydropower in Louisiana's energy policy, stating, "Hydropower is an important part of our all-of-the-above energy policy, and these projects would bring construction jobs to our state. It would be foolish to allow supply chain issues from the pandemic to derail Louisiana’s hydropower developments."

Cassidy also expressed his support for the bill, highlighting the benefits of hydropower and the need for government support. He stated, "Hydropower is reliable, safe, and responsible. The federal government should be enabling projects, not standing in the way. Today’s actions are bipartisan, pro-jobs, and pro-American energy. I’m glad to see Congress cut the red tape holding up the Red River and Overton Lock projects."

The bill, which now moves to the House of Representatives for further consideration, aims to address the challenges faced by hydropower projects in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to supply chain issues and high labor costs, many projects require more than the standard 10-year permit timeframe to reach completion.

Kennedy's efforts in expanding America's hydropower capabilities have been evident through his work on the Energy and Water appropriation package, which included significant investments for dam and levee infrastructure. His advocacy for the bill allowing FERC to extend permits for projects facing pandemic-related delays has been crucial in ensuring the progress of hydropower developments in Louisiana.

Overall, the passage of this bill signifies a bipartisan commitment to supporting clean energy projects and job creation in Louisiana, while also addressing the challenges posed by the pandemic.

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