PITTSBURGH, PA — Governor Josh Shapiro unveiled the ambitious “Lightning Plan” on Thursday at Pittsburgh International Airport, setting a new standard for energy leadership in Pennsylvania. This comprehensive and forward-thinking strategy is designed to secure the Commonwealth’s position as a national energy powerhouse, create thousands of jobs, lower utility costs, and tackle the mounting challenges presented by climate change.
“Pennsylvania has long been a national energy leader, from Ben Franklin to today, but right now, we’re letting other states outcompete us and we’re losing out on jobs, new investment, and innovation – that has to change,” said Governor Shapiro. “My energy plan will power Pennsylvania forward by incentivizing the building of next generation energy projects in the Commonwealth. We have to meet this moment.”
A Comprehensive Plan for Energy Leadership
The Lightning Plan promises to deliver on multiple fronts. With a $1.5 billion partnership already in the works between KeyState Energy and CNX Resources to produce hydrogen and sustainable aviation fuel, the Governor is aiming to drive innovation and economic growth across Pennsylvania. The project is expected to support 3,000 construction jobs and position the state as a hub for next-generation energy development.
The plan also outlines major policy shifts, including updated tax credits through the Pennsylvania Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) program to fund new energy projects and a streamlined approval process via a newly created state energy siting board. Together, these measures aim to reduce bureaucratic red tape, encourage investment, and bring communities together to harness shared energy resources. For consumers, the plan offers increased rebates for energy-efficient appliances to help lower household energy costs.
This multi-pronged approach has drawn support from key business leaders, labor unions, and environmental advocates alike. Gregory Bernarding, Business Manager of the Pittsburgh Regional Building and Construction Trades Council, applauded the plan, noting it will “create thousands of good-paying union jobs” while keeping utility costs low and the Commonwealth’s workforce poised for leadership in burgeoning clean energy markets.
Confronting Challenges Head-On
Pennsylvania faces mounting energy challenges. Utility costs are on the rise, grid reliability is being stretched thin by extreme weather, and global instability threatens energy markets. Governor Shapiro’s plan directly addresses these issues, offering a cohesive strategy that blends economic development, environmental protection, and consumer relief.
The bold vision extends to positioning the state as a clean energy innovator. Christina Cassotis, CEO of the Allegheny County Airport Authority, emphasized the growing need for sustainable aviation fuel. “At Pittsburgh International (PIT), we are uniquely positioned in the aviation industry to drive energy initiatives,” Cassotis said. “Increasing sustainable aviation fuel is necessary for the industry and allows the sector to grow and move toward a cleaner, greener future.”
A Blueprint for National Success
While Pennsylvania may already stand as an energy giant, Governor Shapiro makes it clear that any hesitation to act could leave the Commonwealth trailing behind other states. The Lightning Plan attempts to blend the needs of all stakeholders—workers, businesses, environmentalists, and everyday consumers—to maintain leadership while fostering sustainable growth.
Lt. Governor Austin Davis highlighted the importance of bipartisan cooperation to achieve the plan’s ambitious goals. “This is the arms race of our lifetime, and we need to win—that’s why our Lightning Plan is so important,” said Davis. “We want to bring together elected leaders at the federal, state, and local level, and we hope folks can take off their red and blue jerseys and put on their Pennsylvania jerseys.”
The plan’s implications extend far beyond state borders. By prioritizing clean and affordable energy development, Pennsylvania could serve as a model for other states grappling with similar challenges. Additionally, the plan’s emphasis on innovation and energy efficiency could contribute to broader efforts to combat climate change while boosting national energy independence.
Building on Pennsylvanian Legacy
Governor Shapiro framed the Lightning Plan as a performance-driven commitment to reclaiming the state’s historical prominence in energy leadership. By aiming to lower energy costs, create union jobs, and forge a sustainable path forward, the administration’s strategy entails more than just policy—it embodies a vision for enduring prosperity.
“It is long past time that Pennsylvania unites behind an energy strategy that incentivizes growth, creates good-paying union jobs, and does so in a way that keeps costs low for people and keeps our kids and grandkids safe and healthy,” said Bernarding. “Organized labor is excited by the prospect of a plan that solidifies Pennsylvania as the rightful energy powerhouse of the United States.”
The Lightning Plan marks a clear turning point for Pennsylvania, where energy’s bright future will not just power homes and industries but also secure the Commonwealth’s—and the nation’s—place at the forefront of economic and environmental progress.
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