Energy Outlook

By: Jacob Kim

A recent report from Environment America reveals that Pennsylvania lags behind many states in adopting renewable energy, particularly wind power and energy efficiency. While solar energy production has quadrupled, the state still ranks behind 28 others. Wind power production has decreased by 8%, and energy efficiency efforts have dropped nearly 60% over the past decade, placing Pennsylvania near the bottom in these categories. However, the state has seen notable progress in electric vehicle (EV) adoption, ranking 17th in the nation for EV registrations and 10th for the growth of EV charging stations.

Advocates are pushing for the Pennsylvania Reliable Energy Sustainability Standard, proposed by Governor Josh Shapiro, which would raise the renewable energy share of electricity to 35% by 2035, compared to the current 8% required by the state’s 20-year-old policy. However, bureaucratic delays in approving large-scale solar projects, a lack of community solar mandates, and insufficient incentives for energy efficiency projects have hampered the state’s renewable energy transition. Local efforts, such as the installation of EV chargers in Bucks County, offer some hope, but advocates argue that broader statewide reforms are necessary to catch up with national clean energy trends.

Pennsylvania’s slow progress in adopting renewable energy is concerning, especially given the growing urgency of climate change and the state’s heavy reliance on fossil fuels. The decline in wind power and energy efficiency savings signals that current policies are inadequate. Governor Shapiro’s proposed bill to increase the renewable energy share is a step in the right direction, but more comprehensive reforms are needed to accelerate the state’s transition.

Streamlining bureaucratic processes for solar projects and creating mandates for community solar could unlock significant potential for renewable energy. Additionally, stronger incentives for energy efficiency upgrades and policies encouraging wider EV adoption would help Pennsylvania move forward. Without these changes, Pennsylvania risks falling further behind in both environmental sustainability and economic competitiveness. A stronger commitment to renewable energy is essential for the state’s future, both to mitigate climate impacts and to position itself as a leader in the clean energy economy.

Source

https://insideclimatenews.org/news/25102024/pennsylvania-renewable-energy-report/