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Show 282 thereof to carry on the business of developing, transmitting, utilizing, or distributing power.129 But such preference applies only if the plans submitted are deemed by the Commission equally well adapted to "conserve and utilize in the public interest the water resources of the region," or may be made equally well adapted within a reasonable time fixed by the Commission.130 As between other applicants, the Commis- sion "may" give preference to an applicant with plans best adapted to "develop, conserve, and utilize in the public inter- est the water resources of the region."131 Term of License.-The Act provides that licenses shall be issued for a period "not exceeding 50 years."132 Exception to this requirement is not permitted even in the case of "minor part" licenses, or those for a complete project of not more than 100 horsepower installed capacity, with respect to which the Commission is authorized to waive certain other requirements.133 Time-limit provisions are stipulated respecting the com- mencement and completion of construction.134 So also as to termination of a license on failure to commence construction within the prescribed time, and as to revocation where con- struction is begun but not completed within the prescribed time.135 In addition, provision is made for approval of power contracts extending beyond the termination date of the license, "whenever the public interest requires or justifies" such action.186 Although Congress expressly reserved the right to alter the Act, it stipulated that no such alteration shall affect licenses theretofore issued under the Act, or a licensee's rights there- under.137 But expressly reserved is the right of the United States or of any state or municipality to take over a licensed m§ 7, 41 Stat. 1067, as amended, 16 U. S. 0. 800; § 3, 41 Stat. 1063, as amended, 16 U. S. C. 796(7). 180 Id. 1SiId. lsa § 6,41 Stat. 1067, as amended, 16 U. S. C. 799. 138 § 10(i), 41 Stat. 1070, as amended, 16 U. S. C. 803(i). ™ § 13, 41 Stat. 1071, 16 U. S. O. 806. 185 Id., and § 26,41 Stat. 1076,16 U. S. G. 820. 188 § 22, 41 Stat. 1074,16 U. S. C. 815. 187 § 28, 41 Stat. 1077,16 U. S. O. 822. |