Today, Gov. Josh Shapiro announced a new “Lightning Plan” to accelerate energy deployment and reduce costs across Pennsylvania. The governor’s plan includes a strong focus on advancing clean energy development and lowering costs for consumers, including expanding infrastructure and increasing the share of renewable resources in the Commonwealth’s energy grid. Importantly, the plan builds on the governor’s PRESS and PACER proposals from last year with new proposals like the Pennsylvania Reliable Energy Siting and Electric Transition (RESET) Board to expedite the siting and construction of energy projects, updates to energy efficiency standards, and “community energy” to support rural and low-income communities. 

In response, Evergreen Action Deputy State Policy Director Julia Kortrey released the following statement:

“After reaching a $21 billion tentative settlement with PJM earlier this week, Governor Shapiro’s proposed energy plan recognizes that the status quo on energy is not working for consumers. The Lightning Plan is a crucial first step toward building an affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy future for Pennsylvania. By scaling up cheaper clean energy, Pennsylvania can strengthen its grid, lower energy costs, and spark lasting economic growth. We applaud the governor’s prioritization of key policies like PRESS, PACER, and siting reform to develop more clean energy in the state, as well as community energy to help ensure all Pennsylvanians see the financial benefits. While this plan is a promising start, there is still work to be done to fast-track clean energy and expand renewable resources and energy efficiency across the Commonwealth. We look forward to continued progress from the governor in creating a strong, sustainable grid that works for generations to come.”