(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of ORS 537.140 to 537.350, in accordance with the applicable provisions of ORS chapter 183, the Water Resources Commission shall by rule establish a procedure for processing applications to appropriate water for hydroelectric power under ORS 537.140 to 537.320.
(2) Rules adopted under subsection (1) of this section:
(a) To the extent possible, shall be consistent with the process established for other applications to appropriate water for other beneficial uses under ORS 537.140 to 537.252.
(b) Shall not supersede any provision pertaining to hydroelectric power established under this chapter or ORS chapter 543, to the extent such provisions are applicable to applications to appropriate water for hydroelectric power purposes.
(c) Need not comply with the mandatory time limits or notice provisions established under ORS 537.140 to 537.350 if such provisions are incompatible with the substantive requirements applicable to applications to appropriate water for hydroelectric power purposes.