For decades, district energy systems have provided heating and cooling services in Pittsburgh and the downtown Harrisburg area, including the State Capitol Complex. These systems generate heat at a centralized location and distribute heating and cooling through underground pipes to networks of buildings in a neighborhood or community. While most district energy systems and heat providers rely on fossil fuels, Thermal Energy Networks (TENs) are now emerging as a cleaner, more energy-efficient alternative to traditional heating and cooling methods.
 
TENs operate much like district energy systems but instead harness heat from thermal energy sources, such as geothermal, waste heat, surface water, and the air. With this technology, we can efficiently heat and cool multiple building networks at once, while lowering energy costs and reducing strain on our electric grid. Unlike other renewable technologies, widespread adoption of TENs will also create new opportunities for Pennsylvania’s natural gas workers, enabling them to transition their skills and expertise into the clean energy sector.
 
Neighboring states like Maryland and New York have already taken steps to modernize their utility laws to include TENs, and I believe we should do the same. I will soon be introducing legislation to authorize natural gas utilities to sell heat from thermal energy sources, including TENs. With these changes, we can open the door to large-scale deployment of TENs in communities throughout the Commonwealth.
 
Now is the time to make bold investments to secure Pennsylvania’s energy independence. I invite you to join me in co-sponsoring this legislation to lower energy costs, create family-sustaining jobs, and strengthen our energy infrastructure for the next generation.