Governor Shapiro Proposes Legislation to Curb Power Plant Pollution, Grow Clean Energy Jobs

(HARRISBURG, Pa. – March 13, 2024) Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) issued the following statement in response to Governor Josh Shapiro’s announcement of legislation including the Pennsylvania Reliable Energy Sustainability Standard (“PRESS”) Act and the Pennsylvania Climate Emissions Reduction (“PACER”) Act to implement a power sector cap-and-invest program.

“We thank Governor Josh Shapiro for creating the opportunity for the Pennsylvania legislature to step up on climate – particularly to curb harmful pollution from the state’s power plants and take meaningful steps forward to deploy more clean electricity across the state, said Kate Courtin, Senior Manager for State Climate Policy & Strategy at EDF. “Today’s climate and clean energy legislative proposals are an important step in furthering the dialogue on how the State can limit climate pollution, better position Pennsylvania to compete in the growing clean energy economy, and secure healthier communities.

“The Governor’s Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) working group found that a cap-and-invest program is the most effective and efficient way to reduce power sector pollution and invest in the Commonwealth’s energy transition. RGGI remains a proven and effective approach to implement this type of program and EDF strongly supports Pennsylvania’s participation in RGGI as a core part of the State’s climate plan. We are hopeful that the PACER proposal can advance a conversation with the General Assembly on the best path forward for the State to limit power sector carbon pollution. 

“We encourage legislators in both caucuses to engage in dialogue on a serious cap-and-invest program that limits power sector emissions in line with state and national climate goals, creates sustainable job growth, benefits consumers, and ensures the Commonwealth is ready to compete in the new economy.”