The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) held a public information session on October 10, 2024, to discuss the ongoing licensing process for the FirstLight Northfield project. The meeting focused on the implications of the project’s certification and the potential environmental impacts, drawing significant public interest and concern.

A key topic of discussion was the status of the existing license for the power plants involved in the project. Officials clarified that the current license would likely remain in effect until a new license is issued, which could take years. This raised questions about the potential for the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to approve the license even if MassDEP denies the necessary certification. Attendees were informed that a denial could lead to lengthy court battles, during which the existing operations would continue unchanged.

Public sentiment was strongly expressed during the session, particularly by local residents who voiced their opposition to the project. One resident, Gary Seldon from Greenfield, passionately urged MassDEP to deny the certification, citing environmental degradation and harm to local wildlife as major concerns. He emphasized the need for the department to take a stronger stance in protecting the river and its ecosystem.

Another resident, Donna Riggs, raised questions about the likelihood of the settlement agreement being incorporated into the FERC license. Officials indicated that there is a high probability of this happening, as FERC tends to favor settlement agreements that have been supported by various wildlife agencies. Riggs expressed frustration over the perception that FirstLight holds significant power in the negotiations, questioning what it would take for MassDEP to take a more decisive action against the project.

The meeting concluded with officials acknowledging the complexity of the decision-making process, balancing environmental concerns with legal risks associated with potential litigation. They reiterated that while denial of the certification is an option, it comes with significant uncertainties that must be carefully weighed.

As the process moves forward, the community remains engaged, advocating for environmental protection and transparency in the decision-making related to the FirstLight project. The next steps will involve continued discussions and evaluations as stakeholders navigate the intricate regulatory landscape.