Pennsylvania's Environmental and Energy Events: What You Need to Know

Legislative and Regulatory Activities

Pennsylvania's Senate and House are set for busy sessions in 2025 and 2026, focusing on budget discussions and environmental regulations.

December 17 Hearings: The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will hold crucial hearings on air quality permits for:
A natural gas power plant in Lackawanna County
A facility in Northampton County aiming to attract an AI data center project
Environmental Quality Board: Accepted a petition to study increasing setback safety zones from shale gas wells, potentially enhancing protection for homes, schools, and streams near drilling sites.
Senator Yaw's Bill: Proposes subsidizing natural gas power plants to meet the energy demands of AI data centers, continuing the state's "one of the above" energy policy.

Chesapeake Bay Foundation: Highlights the persistent dead zone in the Chesapeake Bay, underscoring pollution problems.
Penn State Hershey Researchers: Found a link between skin cancer rates and herbicide use in farming areas, emphasizing the need for continued environmental vigilance.

Community Hearings: Communities like Mayfield Boro and Springdale are holding hearings and gatherings to discuss the potential impact of AI data centers.
Electricity Bills: Rising costs are under scrutiny, with state officials investigating but offering little relief for ratepayers.
National Energy Trends: The US Energy Information Administration predicts a record high in power use for 2025 and 2026, with natural gas generation expected to slide slightly while renewables increase. This shift could significantly impact Pennsylvania, a major producer of natural gas.

Opioid Settlement Funds: Spending is facing scrutiny, with a new documentary revealing faults in the state's system to protect older adults from abuse and neglect.
Governor Shapiro's Discussions: Recently discussed polarization and political violence with Utah's governor at the National Cathedral.
Voter Turnout: Topped 42% in the November election, showing strong civic engagement.
Health Insurance Subsidies: Expiring federal subsidies have prompted thousands to drop insurance in the state, highlighting the interconnectedness of environmental, energy, and political matters in Pennsylvania.