Pennsylvania is facing an energy crisis both with the growing demand for energy and bottlenecked electrical transmission infrastructure. This crisis is already placing a burden on consumers wallets as utilities scramble to cover the cost of new connections to their aging systems, passing the cost off on residential consumers.

As our utilities continue to file for higher distribution rates as a part of their Long-Term Infrastructure Improvement Plans (LTIIP), one simple solution this legislature can take is to require that these utilities assess the use of grid-enhancing technologies (GETs) before they plan on replacing or building new transmission lines.

GETs are near-term solutions that can improve how our existing lines deliver electricity at a significantly lower cost. GETs include technologies such as sensors, power flow control devices, and analytical tools that work together to maximize the transmission capacity of our existing infrastructure. For instance, these sensors can allow greater transmission during cold or windy days, maximizing capacity, while redirecting flow to paths of least resistance.

By requiring utilities to invest in GETs as a part of their LTIIPs we can protect Pennsylvania ratepayers from unnecessary expenses and ensure our utilities prioritize investments in affordability and reliability before they pass along the cost of new transmission to consumers.

Please join me in cosponsoring this legislation to protect Pennsylvania ratepayers and ensure that Pennsylvania’s electric grid remains reliable and affordable.