To require the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to extend the time period during which licensees are required to commence construction of certain hydropower projects.

2/17/2026, 9:05 PM

Summary of Bill HR 2072

Bill 119 hr 2072, also known as the "Hydropower Permit Extension Act," is a piece of legislation that aims to require the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to extend the time period in which licensees are required to begin construction on certain hydropower projects. Currently, licensees are required to commence construction within a specific timeframe after receiving a license from FERC. However, this bill seeks to provide more flexibility to licensees by extending this timeframe.

The bill specifically targets hydropower projects, which are a renewable source of energy that harnesses the power of flowing water to generate electricity. By extending the construction commencement deadline, the bill aims to provide licensees with more time to secure necessary permits, funding, and resources to successfully complete their hydropower projects.

Supporters of the bill argue that extending the construction commencement deadline will help promote the development of hydropower projects, which can contribute to a more sustainable and reliable energy grid. Additionally, they believe that providing licensees with more time to complete their projects will ultimately benefit consumers by increasing the availability of clean energy sources. Opponents of the bill may argue that extending the construction commencement deadline could potentially delay the completion of hydropower projects and hinder the overall progress of renewable energy development. They may also raise concerns about the potential environmental impacts of hydropower projects and the need for strict regulations and oversight. Overall, Bill 119 hr 2072 seeks to address the challenges faced by licensees in meeting the current construction commencement deadlines for hydropower projects. By extending this timeframe, the bill aims to support the growth of renewable energy sources and promote a more sustainable energy future for the United States.

Congressional Summary of HR 2072

This bill authorizes the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to extend construction deadlines for hydropower projects that were issued a license before March 13, 2020. FERC is authorized, upon the request of the licensees, to extend the deadline for beginning construction on such projects an additional six years beyond the eight-year extension FERC is authorized to provide under current law. The extension must consist of no more than three consecutive two-year periods.

The bill also provides that FERC may reinstate certain expired licenses for projects with construction deadlines extended under this bill, effective as of the date they expire.

Read the Full Bill

Formatted Text PDF Formatted XML

Current Status of Bill HR 2072

Bill HR 2072 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since March 11, 2025. Bill HR 2072 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on March 11, 2025. Bill HR 2072's most recent activity was Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 408. as of February 2, 2026

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 2072

Total Number of Sponsors

Democrat Sponsors

Republican Sponsors

Unaffiliated Sponsors

Total Number of Cosponsors

Democrat Cosponsors

Republican Cosponsors

Unaffiliated Cosponsors

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 2072

Primary Policy Focus

Energy

Potential Impact Areas

- Alternative and renewable resources

- Dams and canals

- Electric power generation and transmission

- Infrastructure development

- Licensing and registrations

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 2072

To require the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to extend the time period during which licensees are required to commence construction of certain hydropower projects.

Comments

Ricardo West

1,075

6 months ago

I think this bill is a good idea because it gives more time for companies to start building hydropower projects. It will help create more clean energy for our country. Plus, it will create more jobs for people in the construction industry. Did you know that this bill also includes provisions for environmental protections?