The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission on Friday approved a 90-day public comment extension so Ocean Power Technologies can work with local stakeholders – particularly the Southern Oregon Ocean Resource Coalition — on whether it should use a traditional licensing process or an integrated licensing process.

 OPT requested use of the traditional licensing process. It would be a way for OPT to work more closely with those who could be affected by a wave energy project than it could through the integrated licensing process.

“We believe that SOORC, comprised of the Port of Coos Bay, the local fishing and crabbing fleets, seafood processors, marine suppliers, and state and local government representatives, will serve an important role as you develop your license application for the project,”  Office of Energy Projects  Director J. Mark Robinson wrote in the letter. “Based on your anticipation that SOORC will be active in developing issues and negotiating resolutions to complex and difficult issues as part of a potential TLP, I am granting your request.”

The new due date for public comments is July 7.

Robinson also said in the letter that OPT may want to consider developing a smaller project, instead of a 200-buoy project, that could take advantage of FERC’s recent approval for small pilot projects.

Source: TheWorldLink.com 

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