After decades of relatively slow and steady growth in electricity demand, Pennsylvania now faces a looming energy crisis — one that could result in record-high electric bills and the possibility that light switches may not work.
 
Valley Forge-based PJM Interconnection — which operates the high-voltage power grid covering Pennsylvania and all or parts of 12 other states, serving more than 65 million people (and 21 percent of the nation’s economy) — expects up to 40,000 megawatts (MW) of dispatchable baseload generation to retire without firm replacement sources in place within the next decade.
 
On top of this, PJM further expects a dramatic surge in the amount of electricity consumed. At least 62,000 MW of new load is expected to be added, led by operation of energy-intensive data centers and artificial intelligence as well as electrification of the transportation and commercial heating/cooling sectors.
 
To address this resource adequacy gap, my legislation proposes a moderate, state-focused approach that will provide Pennsylvania with the flexibility to work alongside the existing competitive power supply market to address energy shortfalls. In doing so the bill will insulate consumers from growing electricity price volatility and reliability concerns.
 
My bill would allow:
 
1) Investment Flexibility for Electric Distribution Companies (EDCs). Providing EDCs the option to invest in and potentially own baseload and other generation resources.
2) Pass Through Net Revenue. Ensuring that any net revenue obtained by EDCs that submit generation in PJM markets is passed through to customers. 
 
Allowing EDC investment in electric generation would guarantee new power plants being constructed in Pennsylvania, letting our Commonwealth secure its electric future.
 
Please join me in co-sponsoring this legislation to ensure that Pennsylvania continues to have access to the safe, reliable, and affordable energy needed for economic growth, job creation, and community prosperity.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 1425 (Apr 21, 2025): 66-2803