In response to Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro’s 2025-2026 state budget proposal, including its clean energy and transportation investments, Evergreen Action Deputy State Policy Director Julia Kortrey released the following statement: 

“Now more than ever, strong leadership at the state level is essential to protecting working families from rising energy costs and the climate crisis. And following last week’s victory settlement with PJM and release of his ‘Lightning Plan,’ Governor Shapiro has released a forward-thinking state budget that offers real solutions to begin addressing energy affordability and protect the commonwealth’s energy future. By prioritizing investments in building out renewable sources like solar, wind, and battery storage, this plan would address Pennsylvania’s growing energy demand while directly cutting costs for consumers. And with an expanded community energy program and a nearly $300 million investment in mass transit, Shapiro’s budget aims to ensure all Pennsylvanians—no matter where they live—can access affordable and sustainable energy and transportation options. 

“We’re grateful that the governor continues to advocate for the passage of the PRESS Act to strengthen the Commonwealth’s alternative energy portfolio standards. Paired with the creation of a statewide siting board, updates to energy efficiency standards, and the PACER Act, these pieces of legislation would allow Pennsylvania to bring online the renewable energy sources needed to strengthen the grid and lower energy costs. We urge the Pennsylvania General Assembly to act swiftly to pass these investments and encourage the governor to continue pushing for more clean energy solutions that lower costs for Pennsylvanians.”