The past year marked the start of the license renewal application for a Lawrence hydro-power operation with implications for the city’s future.
The license holder is the Essex Company, a subsidiary of Patriot Hydro, owned by LS Power.
Earlier this year Essex announced plans to re-license its 16 MW hydro-electric plant, powered by the Merrimack River at the Great Dam.
The current license, issued in 1978, was granted for 50 years. The renewal would be for 30-50 years.
Essex also owns the 900-foot Great Dam and two historic canals in Lawrence.
In September, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission toured the hydro-plant, historic structures on the property and the two canals.
Also, the Washington, D.C.-based FERC hosted two public hearings and took comments from those whose interests include safeguarding fish, water quality and the canals’ condition.
Among them were history minded residents, elected officials, health and environmental advocates and fish and wildlife biologists.
The Essex Company submitted a proposed studies plan for reviewing its final application, due in 2026.
Meanwhile, the pre-application review provides for public questions and comments.
The next opportunities are Jan. 4 and 5, 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, 652 Andover St., Lawrence, to comment on Essex’s proposed studies.
For more information contact Kevin Webb at (978) 935-6039 or kwebb@patriothydro.com.