Pennsylvania legislators have unveiled a new legislative package designed to implement Governor Josh Shapiro’s “Lightning Plan,” a comprehensive strategy focused on accelerating energy development, reducing energy expenses, and modernizing the state’s electrical grid. This initiative builds upon prior proposals like PRESS and PACER, aiming to remove obstacles to clean energy projects and ensure equitable access to benefits for all Pennsylvanians. The proposed legislation formalizes key components of the governor's energy vision, notably establishing the Pennsylvania Reliable Energy Siting and Electric Transition (RESET) Board to expedite project permitting processes. Further enhancements to energy efficiency standards and strategic investments in community energy initiatives are also included, specifically targeting support for rural and low-income areas. Julia Kortrey, Deputy State Policy Director at Evergreen Action, emphasized that the legislation demonstrates Governor Shapiro’s recognition of the need for change, addressing issues with PJM’s approval procedures that are hindering clean energy projects, increasing costs, and impeding economic growth. The Lightning Plan is presented as a vital adjustment to reflect the urgency of the situation and the consequences of inaction, promising more reliable and affordable power. Kortrey lauded the focus on siting reform and community energy, highlighting their potential to lower costs, create jobs, and broaden access to clean energy. A recent report from Synapse Energy Economics, "Tackling the PJM Electricity Cost Crisis," analyzed PJM's policies and shortcomings in bringing energy online, illustrating potential economic benefits for Pennsylvania and the Mid-Atlantic region through systemic improvements to the interconnection queue. The report's findings were recently showcased at an event attended by Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Acting Secretary Jessica Shirley, Rep. Mandy Steele, and the Keystone Energy Efficiency Alliance, alongside Evergreen.