HARRISBURG, PA — State Representatives Danielle Friel Otten and Aerion Abney are charting new territory. They have set Pennsylvania on an energetic path forward with newly introduced memos — the first steps toward a groundbreaking new energy plan from the administration of Governor Josh Shapiro.
Both legislators are bringing key components of Gov. Shapiro’s strategy to the table. These include the Pennsylvania Reliable Energy Sustainability Standard (PRESS) and the Pennsylvania Climate Emission Reduction (PACER) Program. The ultimate objective is clear – to usher in a greener, more sustainable Pennsylvania that benefits all constituents.
The PRESS aims to revitalize the Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards. Although these standards have successfully steered the state’s energy policy, their time has come. The updated PRESS program extends its reach to nuclear power and next-generation technologies like fusion, reducing emissions for gas-fired power plants. It requiress 50% of the state’s electricity by 2035 to come from diversified energy resources, with an emphasis on solar, wind, small modular reactors, and fusion.
Rep. Otten declared the conversation on sustainable standards to be a significant phase in the legislature. As a lead sponsor, she feels confident in developing robust standards and furthering an energy plan that not only improves emissions and resilience but also reliability.
PACER stands as an equally formidable pillar of Shapiro’s strategy. It sets a Pennsylvania-specific price on carbon emissions, making large emitters contribute their fair share. The proceeds would fuel utility rebates, job creation in the clean energy sector, and reductions in air pollution.
Rep. Abney voiced support for PACER’s bold vision. He noted that the program provides a much-needed transition to a renewable future, promotes economic growth and brings Pennsylvania closer to achieving environmental justice.
This significant energy plan has also made its foray into the state’s Senate, with companion legislation introduced. “We must act now to reduce our carbon emissions for this generation and the next one,” stated State Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee Minority Chair Carolyn Comitta, sponsor of the Senate PACER bill. She emphasized the legislation’s capacity to support job growth, transition to clean energy, and reduce electricity bills, calling it a win-win for every Pennsylvania family.
State Sen. Steve Santarsiero, sponsor of the Senate PRESS bill, dismissed any notion that creating jobs and saving the environment are mutually exclusive, lauding Gov. Shapiro’s initiative.
Rep. Otten also underscored the importance of upgrading Pennsylvania’s clean energy targets under PRESS. She emphasized the dual benefits of advancing climate goals and helping the state compete for renewable energy projects and jobs. With the potential for federal Inflation Reduction Act funds, the opportunities are ripe for making Pennsylvania a leader in clean energy.
The Shapiro administration projects considerable dividends from these initiatives. If passed by the legislature, the PACER and PRESS programs are expected to save ratepayers an estimated $252 million. They’ll also create nearly 15,000 energy jobs while funneling $5.1 billion into clean, reliable energy sources in the first five years.
This bold energy strategy offers a new vision for Pennsylvania — one that steps away from outdated practices and toward a sustainable future filled with promise. It ensures that Pennsylvania remains active in the clean energy race and works to a greener, more prosperous future for all Pennsylvanians. The stakes are high, and the benefits clear. As the debate continues, Pennsylvanians anticipate a future marked by cleaner air, sustainable energy, job growth, and financial savings. The future, it appears, is indeed bright.
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