ALLENTOWN, PA − January 23, 2025 − Today Senate Democratic Policy Committee Chair Nick Miller held a hearing to examine Pennsylvania’s outlook of future electric generation needs and reliability due to growing demands on the grid. The hearing underscored several critical areas, including long-term investments in clean energy, while strengthening consumer protections and ensuring affordability for ratepayers.
“Today’s hearing was an important look into Pennsylvania’s energy economy, and I’m grateful for the testimony of all our panelists,” said Senator Miller. “The insights shared today will be critical as we craft forward-looking energy policies that support families, workers, and businesses across Pennsylvania. Using this detailed expert testimony, I look forward to further policy and legislation that will best position our commonwealth to create and deliver affordable energy for every Pennsylvanian.”
The energy landscape for electricity generation has shifted in recent years due to market forces, environmental policies and the increasing economic viability of alternative energy sources. Experts from the utility industry discussed their role in ensuring access to affordable service and balancing the needs of adequate energy generation and technologic investments versus reliably delivering service amid record growing customer and commercial demands.
Testimony also focused on the importance of maintaining state programs like the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and regulations that protect vulnerable populations, such as the restoration of the state’s Responsible Utility Customer Protection Act known as Chapter 14, which sunset at the end of 2024.
The panelists for today’s hearing and a short summary of their testimony were as follows:
- Christine Martin, President of PPL Electric Utilities highlighted the company’s role in grid modernization facing increasing demands;
- Amy Brinton, Government Affairs Director, PA Chamber emphasized the need for comprehensive energy policies that balance environmental and economic goals;
- Donna Clark, Vice President and General Counsel, Energy Association of Pennsylvania discussed the regulatory framework that impacts energy prices;
- Rob Altenburg, Senior Director for Energy and Climate, PennFuture spoke about the benefits of the transition to renewable energy sources;
- Paul Anthony, Business Manager/Financial Secretary, IBEW Local #375 provided insights on workforce needs and opportunities tied to clean energy projects;
- and Elizabeth Marx, Esq., Executive Director, Pennsylvania Utility Law Project addressed the importance of consumer protection programs and equitable energy policies.
“While our trade association is supportive of reinstating Chapter 14 as it was at the end of the last legislative session, it recognizes that modest changes could be made to the prior Chapter 14 to improve safety for utility workers, respond to changes in technology, and improve operation efficiency,” said Donna Clark, VP and CC of the Energy Association of PA (EAP). “We look forward to working with both parties and both chambers to reauthorize this essential statute. EAP remains committed to collaborating with the General Assembly, the Public Utility Commission, and other stakeholders to ensure Pennsylvania’s energy future is reliable, affordable, safe, and sustainable. By addressing generation needs, modernizing infrastructure, reauthorizing Chapter 14, and balancing renewable integration with resource adequacy, we can position Pennsylvania as a leader in energy resilience and innovation.”
The enhancement of renewable energy sources in the state’s energy portfolio is a priority for many Pennsylvanians, with 68% supporting accelerated investments in renewables. These commitments promise long-term, stable jobs while addressing growing energy demands and preparing the state for future challenges.
“Affordable and reliable energy may be one of the defining issues for this legislative session. While costs are skyrocketing, worries are increasing that our energy system can reliably meet future demand,” said Robert Altenburg, the senior director for energy and climate at PennFuture. “Pennsylvania has long been the country’s leader in innovation when it comes to electricity. The next generation of power is literally waiting in the queue to be unleashed, reducing energy costs, providing jobs, and improving our quality of life. It is time to ensure we are doing everything we can to deliver on that promise for Pennsylvania.”
“Building and maintaining the electrical grid, including transmitting and generating energy to supply Americans with safe, reliable electricity is one of the most important responsibilities of IBEW members,” said Paul Anthony, Business Manager for IBEW Local 375. “A just transition for energy workers is vital to maintaining good-paying jobs, stabilizing local economies, and leveraging the skills of experienced energy workers in emerging renewable energy sectors. The IBEW urges you to consider meaningful legislation that ensures fossil fuel workers are not left behind as the future of energy is realized. I look forward to working with legislators to uplift our communities as we work to construct a cleaner future.”
Senator Nick Miller was elected Policy Chair of the Senate Democratic Caucus in December 2024. Today’s hearing was his first of the 2025-26 legislative session as Chair.
Footage of the hearing, as well as the written testimony of the panel, is available at PASenatorMiller.com/Policy. Photographs and downloadable video are available upon request.
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Testimony
Panel 1: Utilities and Industry
- Christine Martin, President, PPL Electric Utilities
- Amy Brinton, Government Affairs Director, PA Chamber of Business & Industry
- Donna Clark, Vice President and General Counsel, Energy Association of Pennsylvania (EAP)
Panel II: Consumers and Environmental Considerations
- Rob Altenburg, Senior Director for Energy and Climate, PennFuture Energy Center
- Elizabeth Marx, Esq., Executive Director, PA Utility Law Project (PULP)
Panel III: Infrastructure and Workforce
Written Submission Only