3. California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)

The CEQA requires the Commission to act as the designated lead agency to assess the potential environmental impact of a project in order that adverse effects are avoided, alternatives are investigated, and environmental quality is restored or enhanced to the fullest extent possible. In its application, Shasta states that it does not intend to construct any facilities, while in its response to the Ruling, it states that it may need to construct facilities at a new site. Shasta requested reinstatement of a limited facilities-based CPCN, conditionally granted herein. If Shasta determines that construction at a new site is required, and before it can construct facilities other than equipment to be installed in existing buildings or structures, Shasta must file a new application for additional authority, and submit to any necessary CEQA review.