The Pennsylvania Senate recently passed SB 832, a bill aimed at improving the state’s permitting process for energy projects. The bill seeks to address frustrations from energy producers who have found Pennsylvania’s permitting system slow and inconsistent. While Governor Josh Shapiro initially expressed opposition to an early version of the bill, he should reconsider his stance and recognize the benefits it could bring to the state. SB 832 introduces separate tracks for small-scale and large-scale energy projects, an alternative permitting pathway for small projects, an accelerated review process for large projects, and a regulatory waiver program to cut through red tape.
The legislation also creates two new offices to tackle Pennsylvania’s energy and permitting challenges. The Independent Energy Office will study the state’s energy policies and make recommendations to the legislature, while the Pennsylvania Opportunities with Energy Reliability Authority (POWER) will run the new programs set up by SB 832. Democrats in the state House of Representatives have voiced opposition to the bill, but it aligns with efforts Governor Shapiro has been making to address permitting challenges. Shapiro’s PAyback initiative offers businesses refunds when state agencies miss permit deadlines, but SB 832 provides a more proactive solution for businesses facing obstacles in the permitting process.
Despite Governor Shapiro’s initiatives, the permitting process in Pennsylvania, especially for energy projects, still faces delays and inconsistencies. The state has seen high-profile projects canceled or paused due to permitting issues, such as Bechtel Corporation’s decision to scrap plans for a natural gas-fired power plant and Encina’s hold on a plastics recycling facility proposal. These lost opportunities represent a significant economic impact that Pennsylvania cannot afford to miss out on. By embracing the reforms in SB 832, Governor Shapiro can show that Pennsylvania is open for business and committed to utilizing its abundant energy resources for economic growth.
Governor Shapiro’s PAyback initiative demonstrates his commitment to meeting permit decision deadlines, but businesses ultimately desire permit approval over refunds. SB 832 offers a logical next step for reform by providing alternative review pathways and regulatory waivers for businesses facing obstacles in the permitting process. By working with the legislature to craft a permitting system that works for all Pennsylvanians, Governor Shapiro can address the longstanding issue of permitting challenges in the state. Embracing the reforms in SB 832 would send a positive signal to businesses and investors that Pennsylvania is proactive in facilitating economic development through its energy projects.
It is crucial for Governor Shapiro to consider the benefits of SB 832 and collaborate with the legislature to address the longstanding permitting challenges in Pennsylvania. The bill offers practical solutions to streamline the permitting process for energy projects of varying sizes and provides a pathway for businesses to navigate through regulatory obstacles. By supporting SB 832, Governor Shapiro can demonstrate a commitment to economic development in the state and encourage businesses to invest in Pennsylvania’s energy resources. It is time for Pennsylvania to embrace reform and create a more efficient permitting system that supports growth and job creation in the state.
