Pennsylvania governor's energy plan draws backlash over fossil fuel reliance

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro’s new energy plan aims to cut costs and boost production, but critics argue it prioritizes fossil fuels over real climate solutions.

Kiley Bense reports for Inside Climate News.

In short:

• Shapiro’s “Lightning Plan” proposes tax credits for hydrogen and sustainable aviation fuels, streamlined permitting and updated energy standards.
• Some environmentalists support the plan, but others call it “greenwashing,” citing its continued reliance on fossil fuels, including natural gas-derived hydrogen.
• Critics say the plan does little to address emissions and ignores the health and environmental harms of Pennsylvania’s decades-long fracking boom.

Key quote:

“It’s not a climate plan, it’s not an energy plan, it’s a plan to keep the fossil fuel industry happy.”

— Megan McDonough, Pennsylvania state director at Food & Water Watch

Why this matters:

Pennsylvania is the second-largest natural gas producer in the U.S. but ranks near the bottom in renewable energy growth. The state’s energy policies influence both local public health and national climate efforts. Critics argue Shapiro’s plan props up fossil fuels rather than steering the state toward a sustainable future.

Related:

• Pennsylvania accelerates into carbon capture with new legislation
• Hydrogen hubs test new federal environmental justice rules