Pennsylvanians could be forgiven for feeling a bit whipsawed when it comes to recent energy-related news.
On one hand, the federal One Big Beautiful Bill pulls back from recent progress made in clean energy production, limiting our energy options instead of supporting an “all-of-the-above” energy strategy. That means fewer jobs, less economic growth and an electric grid that will become increasingly strained from an unprecedented demand for more power.
On the other hand, U.S. Sen. Dave McCormick and President Donald Trump recently announced $90 billion in energy and technology investments in Pennsylvania. Among them is a plan from Westinghouse to build 10 new nuclear power plant reactors nationwide, projected to generate $6 billion in investment and 15,000 new jobs in Pennsylvania.
There is widespread support for more investment in safe, reliable nuclear power. Pennsylvania has a strong nuclear legacy and generates the second most nuclear energy in the country. But it’s not enough. We must lead the new nuclear resurgence.
That’s why we’re calling on federal and state leaders to renew their commitment to an energy future that keeps Pennsylvania at the forefront of energy dominance. That means setting aside party labels and advancing commonsense energy policy that is solution-driven and puts Pennsylvanians first — including making smart investments in nuclear power, clean hydrogen and carbon capture.
Only through a comprehensive approach to our energy policy can we ensure our power supply is reliable, clean and affordable — not just today, but for future generations.
Kate Harper
Lower Gwynned, Montgomery County
Conor Lamb
Mt. Lebanon
The writers are co-chairs of Energy Future PA.