HARRISBURG, PA — Union Energy, a coalition dedicated to fostering a sustainable energy economy, has voiced strong support for Governor Josh Shapiro’s ambitious “Lightning Plan.” Announced as a blueprint for Pennsylvania’s energy future, the plan aims to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability while creating thousands of union jobs across the state.
The Lightning Plan focuses on transforming Pennsylvania into a national leader in clean energy innovation. Key components include updated tax credits through the EDGE program, a streamlined energy project approval process under a new state energy siting board, and consumer rebates to reduce utility costs. Among its signature initiatives is the $1.5 billion collaboration between KeyState Energy and CNX Resources to produce hydrogen and sustainable aviation fuel, a project expected to generate 3,000 construction jobs.
Union Energy President Angela Ferritto highlighted how the proposal aligns with the coalition’s mission of ensuring a clean energy transition that brings “good-paying union jobs in a clean energy economy” to Pennsylvania workers. “Governor Shapiro’s leadership is vital to ensuring our Commonwealth continues to lead the way when it comes to energy production and innovation,” Ferritto stated.
The coalition itself represents a partnership between the PA AFL-CIO, the PA Building Trades, Cornell University, and the Climate Jobs National Resource Center. It has been instrumental in crafting policies that expand union opportunities while addressing future energy challenges. Rob Bair, Secretary-Treasurer of Union Energy, emphasized the importance of bipartisan efforts in driving the energy economy forward while maintaining Pennsylvania’s legacy as a leader in energy production.
The Lightning Plan has received broad support from labor unions, environmental groups, and business leaders, all calling it a forward-thinking, pragmatic strategy for tackling global energy instability and fostering grid reliability. The proposal spotlights Pennsylvania’s ability to lead the transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions while spurring job creation and economic development statewide.
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