SCRANTON, Pa. — Governor Shapiro says his team has put together an energy plan that will bring the Commonwealth to the top in energy production. He announced the plan while making a visit to the Pipe Fitters Union office in Scranton.
From coal to natural gas and new technology like the state's hydrogen hub networks, Pennsylvania has always been at the forefront of energy production.
The plan lays out two parts that will create more than 14,000 jobs in Pennsylvania and save over $250 million, all while fighting climate change with clean energy production.
"We've got to reject the false choice between protecting energy jobs and protecting the planet. We can do both. We must do both," said Governor Josh Shapiro.
The Governor's plan creates an emissions reduction program for companies that produce energy, which will lower prices for residents.
"It's going to incentivize innovation. It's going to help us move toward more clean energy, and hear me on this: it's going to create 1000s of good-paying jobs right here in Pennsylvania," added Shapiro.
Governor Shapiro was met with opposition from people whose water was contaminated by natural gas drilling in Susquehanna County several years ago.
"You're right here. Come up to Dimock and meet the people. These are the children who have been poisoned. That's their water. Okay," said Craig Stevens of Silver Lake Township.
However, residents whose water was affected say Pennsylvania should focus more on the problems created by already existing energy production before moving forward with new technology.
"You know what a good energy policy is? Stop poisoning people to get energy. That's a really good energy policy. If they can't drill holes without poisoning my neighbors and my family. Then guess what? Stop drilling holes in the ground for energy until you figure out how to do it right," added Stevens.
"Here it is two years after the court case. I still don't have water in my house. I'm tired of all the chucking jibe of the government," said Raymond Kemble of Dimock Township.
The governor's plan must be passed by the state legislature. Governor Shapiro expects it to be introduced in the coming days.