Section 401 Hydropower Certification

Overview

DEQ issues 401 certifications for hydroelectric projects and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission administers the federal licensing process. The water quality certification typically includes operating conditions designed to ensure project operations will not violate water quality standards.

DEQ coordinates the section 401 certification licensing process with Oregon's hydroelectric water rights program administered by the Oregon Water Resources Department and conducted independently under the state's administrative rules (OAR 340-048).