What does Preamble of FLOWS Act do?

This bill amends the Federal Power Act. The bill addresses alterations in, and the maintenance and repair of, project works. It provides for the licensing of micro hydrokinetic energy projects. The bill includes provisions for other purposes.

What does SHORT TITLE. of FLOWS Act do?

This bill is formally titled the Fair Licensing for Operations of Water Structures Act.

What does HYDROPOWER MAINTENANCE AND TEMPORARY ADJUSTMENTS. of FLOWS Act do?

This section amends the Federal Power Act to streamline the approval process for certain alterations and maintenance activities at hydropower projects. Specifically, licensees are no longer required to obtain Commission approval for nonsubstantial alterations or additions to project works already approved by the Commission. Similarly, licensees are exempt from Commission approval for routine maintenance, repair, or replacement of project works, as well as seasonal or temporary adjustments to project operations. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission retains the authority to require notice from licensees and to enforce safety requirements. The Commission can also engage in informal consultations with licensees regarding the safety of dams and related structures.

What does MICRO HYDROKINETIC ENERGY PROJECTS. of FLOWS Act do?

This section amends the Federal Power Act to add Section 37, concerning the licensing of micro hydrokinetic energy projects. A 'micro hydrokinetic energy project' is defined as a project with an installed capacity of not more than 5 megawatts that converts hydrokinetic energy from waves, tides, currents, or free-flowing water, and does not impound water. The Commission can issue licenses for these projects for a term of 10 to 20 years. The section establishes an expedited licensing process, including a notification of intent, application filing deadlines, and a deadline for the Commission to take final action. The Commission is required to promulgate regulations within 180 days of enactment to expedite deployment while ensuring safe operation and compliance with laws. These regulations should include the use of categorical exclusions under the National Environmental Policy Act for low-disturbance activities. The Commission must submit a report to Congress describing the impacts of licensed projects on the environment, economy, and electricity reliability and affordability.

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FLOWS Act

Last updated: 3/17/2026 · Introduced: 12/17/2025

Author: Lisa Murkowski (R-AK)

TL;DR (AI)

The bill streamlines the approval process for maintenance and minor alterations at existing hydropower projects, exempting licensees from Commission approval for routine activities and seasonal adjustments while maintaining safety oversight.
It establishes a licensing framework for 'micro hydrokinetic energy projects' (up to 5 megawatts) that harness energy from water currents and waves, creating an expedited licensing process.
The bill requires the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to develop regulations to expedite the deployment of micro hydrokinetic projects while ensuring environmental protection and compliance.

119th Congressin committeeOfficial page

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Other Sections

Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 2 more.

4 sections

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