The demand for electricity is rising rapidly and families, seniors, and small businesses are already struggling with rising costs.  

To maintain reliable and affordable service for everyone, we must make the most of our existing infrastructure and ensure that the cost of building out new transmission infrastructure is not unfairly passed on to consumers. And if costly, new infrastructure must be built, then we should implement the most efficient technologies.  

To this end, I will soon introduce legislation that would require electric utilities to evaluate and consider the use of advanced transmission technologies (or ATTs) on new and existing service lines within their transmission siting applications filed with the PUC, which are currently required by law for all newly proposed transmission facilities.   

This legislation will not prevent utilities from building new transmission lines, but will instead require them to first consider modern, cost-effective solutions—such as advanced conductors, grid-enhancing technologies, or power-flow controls—that can increase capacity on new and existing transmission lines. Under the bill, if the PUC determines ATTs will eliminate the need for new infrastructure or are crucial for new lines, the Commission would be authorized to deny or conditionally approve a utility’s siting application depending upon whether ATTs will be integrated.  

By requiring a transparent evaluation of ATTs and giving the PUC greater authority to encourage their adoption, this bill protects ratepayers, fosters innovation, and ensures we build the grid of the future in the most efficient and responsible way possible. 

Please join me in co-sponsoring this common-sense legislation to improve grid reliability and keep electric bills as low as possible for Pennsylvania's residents and small businesses.