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Show 275 power to secure information as a basis for recommending leg- islation.82 "So far as practicable/' it must secure and keep current information regarding the ownership, operation, management, and control of "all facilities" for generation, transmission, distribution, and sale of electric energy, however produced. So also as to the "capacity and output of such facilities and the relationship between the two; the cost of- generation, transmission, and distribution; the rates, charges, and contracts in respect of the sale of electric energy and its service to residential, rural, commercial, and industrial con- sumers by private and public agencies." Moreover, this duty to secure and keep current information includes the relation of the foregoing facts to "the development of navigation, indus- try, commerce, and the national defense." Multiple Uses and Comprehensive Development.-The nature and scope of the Commission's authority with respect to investigations and surveys indicate a legislative expectation that the functions delegated to the Commission would require its consideration of multiple uses of projects and comprehen- sive development.83 Moreover, preference among applicants for a license depends in part upon which has plans best adapted to develop, conserve, and utilize in the public interest the water resources of the region.84 Other provisions leave no room for doubt as to the importance under the Act of multiple use and comprehensive development. For example, the project adopted must be such as in the judgment of the Commission will be:85 best adapted to a comprehensive plan for improving or developing a waterway or waterways for the use or bene- fit of interstate or foreign commerce, for the improve- ment and utilization of waterpower development, and for other beneficial public uses, including recreational purposes. 82 § 311, 49 Stat. 859,16 U. S. C. 825j. 88 See infra, pp. 276-281. 84 See infra, pp. 281-282. 86 § 10(a), 41 Stat. 1068, as amended, 16 U. S. 0. 803(a). |