New initiatives aim to fast-track clean energy, create jobs, and modernize the grid.
PITTSBURGH, PA – Governor Josh Shapiro today announced a sweeping clean energy package designed to make Pennsylvania a leader in the energy transition. The plan includes, but is not limited to, the reintroduction of the Pennsylvania Reliable Energy Sustainability Standard (PRESS) and the Pennsylvania Climate Emissions Reduction (PACER) program, alongside new energy efficiency measures, a clean energy siting board initiative, and updates to the EDGE tax credit.
As part of his announcement, Governor Shapiro called on regional grid operator PJM to open up its interconnection queue and prioritize connecting new energy projects to the grid. Addressing the backlog in PJM’s queue is critical to ensuring that Pennsylvania can take full advantage of its clean energy potential and accelerate the deployment of new projects.
“These policies will attract investment, create jobs, and drive innovation, keeping Pennsylvania competitive in the clean energy economy,” said Morgan Pinnell, Mid-Atlantic Policy Director for Advanced Energy United. “Governor Shapiro is rightly focused on energy costs and clean energy investments that will save ratepayers in the long run. We look forward to working with state leaders to turn these bold proposals into action.”
PRESS would raise Pennsylvania’s clean energy requirement to 35% by 2035, bringing it in line with neighboring states. The new plan would increase the requirements from 8%, where they’ve plateaued since 2021, to 35% by 2035. The governor’s new plan would help send a clear market signal to investors that Pennsylvania is open for business. The new siting board initiative aims to remove roadblocks to new projects, ensuring clean energy gets on the grid faster.
“With these policies, Pennsylvania can unlock its vast clean energy potential while delivering economic and environmental benefits to communities statewide,” Pinnell added.
Further details on the proposals will emerge as legislation advances, and Adanced Energy United looks forward to collaborating with policymakers and the administration to make Pennsylvania a clean energy powerhouse.
Click here to learn more about Advanced Energy United's work advocating for clean energy and electrified transportation in Pennsylvania.