Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) today announced two strategic partnerships that will expand energy job opportunities across the Commonwealth while helping small and mid-sized manufacturers reduce costs, lower emissions, and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving energy economy.
Through the RISE PA (Reducing Industrial Sector Emissions in Pennsylvania) initiative, DEP is partnering with Penn State’s Pennsylvania Technical Assistance Program (PennTAP), which provides no-cost technical assistance to help small and mid-sized businesses improve energy efficiency and environmental performance, and Catalyst Connection, a Pittsburgh-based economic development organization focused on manufacturing innovation.
"These partnerships are a win-win for Pennsylvania," said DEP Acting Secretary Jessica Shirley. "RISE PA is about investing in our people, our planet, and our economy. By helping manufacturers reduce energy waste and adopt cutting-edge technologies, we're not only supporting cleaner air and lower energy costs—we’re also creating more good-paying energy jobs right here in Pennsylvania."
The collaboration with PennTAP will provide hands-on technical assistance to help manufacturers identify and implement practical, energy-saving solutions. Leveraging decades of experience, PennTAP empowers businesses to increase efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and lower operational costs, all while driving sustainable growth. The PennTAP partnership will support approximately 800 small and medium size manufacturing businesses.
"RISE PA is a game-changer for Pennsylvania manufacturers," said Tanna Pugh, director of PennTAP. "By helping manufacturers adopt energy-efficient technology, this program lowers costs, boosts sustainability and keeps Pennsylvania industries competitive in a changing economy."
Catalyst Connection, a long-standing leader in southwestern Pennsylvania’s manufacturing sector, will provide direct support to companies applying for RISE PA grants, including technical training. These grants, managed by DEP, will fund projects that create opportunities for energy contractors, engineers, and skilled workers across the state.
Together, these efforts will support workforce development and innovation in the clean energy economy.
“RISE PA is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform Pennsylvania’s industrial economy,” said Petra Mitchell, President and CEO of Catalyst Connection. “It enables manufacturers— especially small and mid-sized companies— to invest in sustainable technologies that will reduce emissions, lower costs, and ensure long-term growth.”
This announcement aligns with Governor Josh Shapiro’s “Lightning Plan”, an “all of the above” energy plan to spark new energy development in Pennsylvania, create energy jobs, lower costs for consumers, and position the Commonwealth as a national energy leader for decades to come.
For more information on RISE PA and how to apply for technical assistance or funding, visit: dep.pa.gov/RISE-PA
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