15328. SMALL HYDROELECTRIC PROJECTS AT EXISTING FACILITIES

Class 28 consists of the installation of hydroelectric generating facilities in connection with existing dams, canals, and pipelines where:

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Association of Environmental Professionals 2025

CEQA Guidelines

• (a) The capacity of the generating facilities is 5 megawatts or less;

• (b) Operation of the generating facilities will not change the flow regime in the affected stream, canal, or pipeline including but not limited to:

  • (1) Rate and volume of flow;

  • (2) Temperature;

  • (3) Amounts of dissolved oxygen to a degree that could adversely affect aquatic life; and

  • (4) Timing of release.

• (c) New power lines to connect the generating facilities to existing power lines will not exceed one mile in length if located on a new right of way and will not be located adjacent to a wild or scenic river;

• (d) Repair or reconstruction of the diversion structure will not raise the normal maximum surface elevation of the impoundment;

• (e) There will be no significant upstream or downstream passage of fish affected by the project;

• (f) The discharge from the power house will not be located more than 300 feet from the toe of the diversion structure;

• (g) The project will not cause violations of applicable state or federal water quality standards;

• (h) The project will not entail any construction on or alteration of a site included in or eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places; and

• (i) Construction will not occur in the vicinity of any endangered, rare, or threatened species.

Note: Authority cited: Section 21083, Public Resources Code; Reference: Section 21084, Public Resources Code.