House Environmental Committee To Take Testimony On Climate Change Bill

The House Environmental Resources and Energy Committee will hold a hearing Thursday on House Bill 80 (Vitali-D-Delaware) to increase the amount of electricity generated from clean and renewable sources and provide incentives for carbon sequestration to reduce greenhouse gases.

 

Those expected to testify include:

 

The bill would also increase the amount of electricity from solar photovoltaic panels that electricity companies must purchase and use to 3 percent by 2026; require Pennsylvania to develop and operate a carbon capture and sequestration network for coal-burning power plants in Pennsylvania; and require 3 percent of the energy purchased by electric distribution companies in Pennsylvania to come from coal-fired power plants that sequester carbon.

 

Sen. Ted Erickson (R-Delaware) introduced companion legislation in the Senate-- Senate Bill 92.

"This is important energy legislation for Pennsylvania, both environmentally and economically," Rep. Vitali said. "The improved portfolio standards would not only help Pennsylvania reduce its share of harmful carbon emissions that are impacting climate change, and improve our own state's environment, but also position Pennsylvania as a national leader in renewable and clean energy technologies. That will bring with it new jobs and economic growth, and a distinct advantage in our economic recovery efforts."

 

Rep. Camille George (D-Clearfield) serves as Majority Chair of the Committee and Rep. Scott Hutchinson (R-Venango) serves as Minority Chair.