Federal Power Act

Federal Power Act
66th United States Congress
  • An Act to provide for the regulation of interstate commerce in the public interest
Enacted by66th United States Congress
EnactedJune 10, 1920
Amended by
Various amendments, including the Energy Policy Act of 2005
Summary
The Federal Power Act, initially enacted as the Federal Water Power Act, established the Federal Power Commission (now the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission) as the licensing authority for hydroelectric projects in the United States. It regulates interstate electricity transmission, wholesale power sales, and reliability of electric service.
Status: In force (amended)

The Federal Power Act is a law appearing in Chapter 12 of Title 16 of the United States Code, entitled "Federal Regulation and Development of Power". Enacted as the Federal Water Power Act on June 10, 1920, and amended many times since,[1] its original purpose was to more effectively coordinate the development of hydroelectric projects in the United States. Representative John J. Esch (R-Wisconsin) was the sponsor.

  1. ^ Digest of Federal Resource Laws of Interest to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service