March 13, 2024
Audubon Mid-Atlantic is pleased that Governor Shapiro has proposed a new and much-needed renewable energy standard that will expand options for more clean, renewable energy for Pennsylvania. The science tells us that pollution related climate change is the single greatest threat to birds and bird habitat in Pennsylania. Currently, only 3% of Pennsylvania's energy comes from renewable sources, ranking the state 45th in the country.
Audubon Mid-Atlantic Executive Director Suzanne Biemiller notes, “The state must diversify its electricity generation through appropriately-sited renewable energy sources like wind and solar. Doing so is one of the most significant actions we can take to protect birds and the places they need survive.”
The Pennsylvania Reliable Energy Sustainability Standard (PRESS) proposed by Governor Shapiro aims to do that. However there are still details to be worked out to ensure that PRESS is as effective as possible in reducing emisions. Audubon looks forward to working with the governor and the legislature to ensure that Pennsylvania transitions to a robust clean energy economy as soon as possible.
The Governor’s announcement today also includes the Pennsylvania Climate Emissions Reduction plan (PACER) to explore a state power sector cap-and-invest program, demonstrating the governor’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas pollution. While Audubon supports a cap-and-invest program, we strongly believe that the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), which was created in 2009, is the best option for Pennsylvania’s birds, our environment and our communities. If PACER is to become Pennsylvania’s alternative to being a member of RGGI, it must meet or exceed RGGI’s pollution reduction, job creation, clean energy and natural climate solutions investments. The state’s 55 powerplants and the fact that Pennsylvania is a net energy exporter provide an opportunity for the Commonwealth to become a leader in generating revenue from polluters and reinvest in our communities and our natural resources. This also means Pennsylvania has the oppurtinty to be a clean energy exporter.
Audubon, our members in every corner of Pennsylvania, and partners look forward to real action leading to a healthier and cleaner environment. Suzanne Biemiller adds, “We urge the legislature to collaborate with the governor to implement effective solutions that can achieve the goals of reducing pollution and take climate action that will protect Pennsylvania’s natural resources ensuring a healthy and sustainable future for birds, people, and the economy.”
Pennsylvania must be a leader in both conservation and accelerated climate action.
