Harrisburg, PA – Yesterday, Governor Josh Shapiro unveiled his "Lightning Plan," a comprehensive, all-of-the-above energy plan to secure Pennsylvania’s energy future. The plan, rooted in Pennsylvania’s long history of energy innovation — from Ben Franklin’s experiments to today’s advanced technologies — positions the Commonwealth as a national energy leader for decades to come.
Governor Shapiro’s energy plan brings together labor and industry leaders, environmental advocates, and consumer groups to ensure Pennsylvania remains a top energy producer while addressing climate change and reducing costs. The plan introduces new investments in energy projects, streamlines permitting through the creation of a state energy siting board and expands rebates for energy-efficient appliances. It also includes targeted tax incentives to drive the development of reliable energy sources, hydrogen production, and sustainable aviation fuel.
In addition to this plan, this week Governor Shapiro announced an agreement with PJM Interconnection that will save consumers over $21 billion over the next two years. In December, the Governor filed a complaint with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) against PJM, challenging flaws in its capacity auction system that threatened significant price increases. The Governor’s action led to an agreement that will prevent historic price hikes and protect Pennsylvania ratepayers.
Read what labor and industry leaders, advocates, lawmakers, and consumer groups are saying about Governor Shapiro’s energy plan to create jobs, lower costs for consumers, address climate change, and position the Commonwealth as a national energy leader for decades to come:
Gregory Bernarding, Business Manager, Pittsburgh Regional Building and Construction Trades Council: “It is long past time that Pennsylvania unites behind an energy strategy that incentivizes growth, creates good paying union jobs, and does so in a way that keeps costs low for people and keeps our kids and grandkids safe and healthy. While many have talked, Governor Shapiro has acted, and by putting his concrete ideas on the table he shows that he is committed to getting something done on energy. Organized labor is excited by the prospect of a plan that creates thousands of good paying union jobs, and we look forward to working with the Governor and partners in the legislature on a plan that solidifies Pennsylvania as the rightful energy powerhouse of the United States.”
Stefani Pashman, CEO, Allegheny Conference: “It’s an honor to stand with Governor Shapiro, Lieutenant Governor Davis, and our partners who share the vision of Southwestern Pennsylvania leading the future of energy. Our economic prosperity depends on energy affordability and grid reliability, and we appreciate the Governor’s leadership in this space. At this critical moment, a strong state policy framework is essential — not just to create the right conditions for growth, but to signal that Pennsylvania is open for investment. We stand ready to work with the Governor and all elected officials to make this all-of-the-above energy plan a reality.”
David Dardis, Executive Vice President, Constellation Energy: “Pennsylvania has long benefited from abundant, affordable energy, and Governor Shapiro’s energy plan will strengthen that position for the next decade and beyond — at a time when it’s more important than ever. We appreciate the Shapiro Administration’s collaboration and willingness to engage with us on the Commonwealth’s energy future — something that doesn’t happen in every state. This plan strikes the right balance, supporting energy security while preserving the competitive markets that have served Pennsylvania so well.”
Jackson Morris, Director of State Power Sector Policy, Climate & Energy, Natural Resources Defense Council: “I work across over a dozen states, and I can confidently say the Lightning Plan is one of the most ambitious plans we've seen. Pennsylvania is personal to me, and I was honored to work with Governor Shapiro’s diverse working group. Bringing together business, labor, environmental, and consumer groups to find common ground was incredibly rewarding. This plan reflects that collaboration and Governor Shapiro’s leadership in uniting diverse perspectives to move the state forward.”
Lori Brennan, Executive Director, The Nature Conservancy in Pennsylvania: "We are encouraged by Governor Shapiro’s Lightning Plan proposal, which outlines a pathway for Pennsylvania to accelerate clean energy deployment and pursue decarbonization strategies to reduce emissions while providing for the energy needs of the commonwealth and beyond. PACER, PRESS, Community Energy and the Reliable Energy Siting and Electric Transition (RESET) Board all form major components of the Lightning Plan. Taken together, they represent a once-in-a-generation framework to maximize energy outcomes that balance climate, communities and conservation.”
House Majority Leader Representative Matt Bradford: “We commend the Governor’s ability to bring together energy, labor and environmental protection partners for this bold and comprehensive energy plan. We share his commitment to keep Pennsylvania an energy leader to keep costs down for consumers, create and sustain good jobs, provide stability to the grid and address climate change. We look forward to working with him on this energy plan.”
Representative Rob Matzie: “The Lightning Plan is a blueprint for Pennsylvania’s energy future — more energy means more jobs, lower costs, and a stronger economy. Clean energy doesn’t take away — it adds and Pennsylvania’s workforce is second to none. I stand ready to work with Governor Shapiro and all stakeholders to get it done this year.
Congressman Chris Deluzio: “Pennsylvania has long powered the country. Now is the time for the Commonwealth to jump into action to secure Pennsylvania’s energy future and move the nation toward energy security. I applaud Governor Shapiro’s leadership and work to lower energy costs, create strong jobs, and streamline and strengthen our energy system with his new ‘Lightning Project.’ I stand ready to do whatever I can in Congress to support this statewide effort to lower energy costs, protect our air and water, and grow our economy.”
Christina Cassotis, CEO, Allegheny County Airport Authority: “At Pittsburgh International (PIT), we are uniquely positioned in the aviation industry to drive energy initiatives. We know that increasing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is necessary for the industry and allows the sector to grow and move toward a cleaner, greener future. Because we believe that it can be developed right here at PIT, we’ve pursued multiple pathways to produce this much needed asset. We are happy to see a SAF tax credit so well received in Harrisburg and look forward to working with our partners on this issue.”
See what Pennsylvanians are reading about Governor Shapiro’s energy plan:
Politics PA: Shapiro Unveils “Lightning Plan” To Fast-Track Energy Projects in Commonwealth
E&E News: Pennsylvania governor pitches Trump-era climate and energy plan
PennLive: Shapiro deal on electricity price caps will likely spur fresh debate on clean energy
The Daily Item: Shapiro seeks ‘Lightning’ action to bolster Pa. energy sector
The Center Square: Pennsylvania's 'lightning' energy plan lacks critical legislative support
Axios Pittsburgh: Shapiro wants to boost state energy production
Pennsylvania Business Report: Shapiro proposes statewide energy strategy
CBS21: Gov. Shapiro Announces New Energy Plan
ABC27: Governor Shapiro Energy Plan
Read what labor and industry leaders, advocates, and consumer groups are saying about the Governor’s agreement with PJM:
David Masur, PennEnvironment Research & Policy Center Executive Director: “We thank Governor Shapiro for his action — and so should all of Pennsylvania’s utility customers. Now, it’s critical that PJM allows more renewable energy onto the grid.”
Abe Scarr, U.S. PIRG Education Fund Energy and Utilities Program Director: “Thanks to Governor Shapiro and the other governors who supported this complaint, consumers will be spared from billions of dollars in excessive utility bill charges. But while this is welcome news, PJM must still fix its broken interconnection process and stop holding up clean energy.”
Julia Kortrey, Evergreen Action Deputy State Policy Director: “Today’s settlement is a major victory for consumers across the region. It shouldn’t have taken a lawsuit for PJM to prioritize protecting ratepayers, but we’re deeply grateful for the leadership of Governor Shapiro.”
Rob Gramlich, President of Grid Strategies: “Governor Shapiro navigated the quagmire of power market and regulatory complexity in order to reach an agreement. Approvals are required at the PJM and FERC levels, so it’s not assured, but this is very big step.”
Tom Rutigliano, senior advocate for climate and energy, Natural Resources Defense Council: “It buys time to try to fix the problem. It essentially stabilizes [the upcoming auction] and prevents perhaps tens of billions of excess charges.”
Minta Livengood, a Pennsylvania senior from Indiana County: “As someone who relies on programs like LIHEAP, SNAP, and the waiver program, I understand how rising costs impact seniors. These programs help me stay independent and connected to my community. Since 1981, I’ve advocated for others, volunteering in Indiana County and working with CAUSE-PA to lower utility bills. Rising costs force seniors on fixed incomes to choose between basic needs. I’m grateful the Governor intervened to prevent electricity prices from increasing, which would have devastated families.
Rhodia Thomas, Executive Director, Mid-Penn Legal Services: “A significant part of the work we do at Mid-Penn focuses on assisting low-income Pennsylvanians who struggle with utility costs, especially during these harsh winter months. Many of our clients face difficult choices just to keep their homes warm and their families safe due to rising energy prices. That’s why we are honored to host Governor Shapiro and his team today — his efforts to lower electricity bills and create affordable energy solutions directly impact the communities we serve, providing families with critical relief and much-needed hope.”
Elizabeth Marx, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Utility Law Project: “I’m proud to lead the Pennsylvania Utility Law Project in ensuring that Pennsylvanians with limited means can access safe, affordable utilities. In 2024, over 377,000 families faced service shutoffs due to unaffordable bills — a 15% increase from 2023. This growing crisis highlights the ‘heat or eat’ dilemma many are facing. Standing with Governor Shapiro to celebrate his leadership in advancing energy affordability is an honor, as his swift action will save Pennsylvanians billions and prevent unnecessary waste.”
Bill Johnston-Walsh, AARP Pennsylvania State Director: “We hear daily about how rising utility costs strain Pennsylvanians — especially those who want to stay in the homes they worked so hard to purchase. By taking action to prevent rising energy costs, Governor Shapiro is helping them maintain financial stability. We commend his leadership and remain committed to protecting consumers now and into the future.”
Representative Elizabeth Fiedler: “I applaud the Governor’s work to create a price ceiling with PJM for the upcoming capacity auctions. His intervention is going to save Pennsylvanians billions on their energy bills. As Chair of the House Energy committee, I know there is more work to do to ensure everyone’s heat and electricity bills are affordable, but this action will provide us time to address the great challenges we face.
See what Pennsylvanians are reading and hearing about the Governor’s agreement with PJM:
E&E News: Pennsylvania governor negotiates a deal with PJM over power prices
Reuters: Pennsylvania Governor and PJM reach agreement over capacity payments
Lehigh Valley Business: Shapiro announces agreement with PJM to prevent unnecessary price hikes
The Center Square: Price cap possible as rising energy costs loom
The Daily Item: Shapiro says deal pending with power grid operator to limit potential price hikes
Billy Penn: Electric grid operator agrees to Shapiro demand on power price cap
Utility Dive: PJM agrees to lower price cap for upcoming capacity auctions
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