HARRISBURG – Legislation establishing an Independent Energy Office (IEO) in Pennsylvania was approved today by the state Senate, according to Sen. Gene Yaw (R-23), sponsor of the measure.
“Pennsylvania has one of the most diverse energy portfolios in the United States,” Yaw said. “I believe an Independent Energy Office can streamline our approach to responsible energy policy and ensure a more cohesive strategy for managing our vast natural resources.”
Senate Bill 187, Yaw said, would model the IEO after Pennsylvania’s Independent Fiscal Office (IFO), which was created by Act 120 of 2010 and Act 100 of 2016. The IFO does not support or oppose any policy it analyzes and discloses the methodologies, data sources and assumptions used in published reports and estimates.
Numerous industry representatives expressed support for the bill, including the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry.
“Senator Yaw’s leadership on this legislation is a win for Pennsylvania’s economy and our energy future,” said Amy Brinton, the Chamber’s Director of Government Affairs. “Establishing an Independent Energy Office will help us collect and analyze the data and insights needed to make smart energy decisions, strengthen grid reliability and keep Pennsylvania competitive. Energy drives our economy, and this bill helps secure our position as a global energy leader.”
This legislation is part of Yaw’s continued work related to responsible energy development and protecting the reliability of the PJM electric grid. Yaw has also introduced a number of other measures aimed at addressing grid reliability, including legislation establishing the Grid Stabilization and Security Act, legislation to protect the power grid from purposeful damage and legislation to place decisions regarding energy restrictions within the purview of the state.
The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.
For more state-related news and information, constituents can visit Senator Yaw’s website at www.SenatorGeneYaw.com or follow him on Facebook and X @SenatorGeneYaw.
CONTACT:
Elizabeth Weitzel
717-787-3280