Robert Baer advocates for local labor and community benefits in Pennsylvania energy policy

The Pennsylvania House of Representatives' Environmental & Natural Resource Protection Committee convened on May 19, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding the state's energy policy and workforce development in the renewable energy sector. The meeting highlighted the need for a balanced approach to energy generation that supports local jobs while addressing rising costs for consumers.

Robert Baer, president of the Pennsylvania Building Trades, emphasized the importance of ensuring that local labor is utilized in renewable energy projects. He expressed concern that many jobs in the renewable sector are not being filled by Pennsylvania workers, which he believes undermines the state's economic potential. Baer advocated for closing the tier 1 borders to prioritize local labor, although he acknowledged that this may be an ambitious goal.

Baer also addressed the financial implications of energy policy changes, noting that previous decisions, such as closing tier 2 borders, resulted in significant costs for Pennsylvania ratepayers. He urged the committee to consider community benefit agreements for new energy projects, suggesting that these agreements could provide incentives for local communities to support renewable initiatives. He argued that without tangible benefits, rural areas may resist the development of solar and other renewable projects.

The discussion underscored a collective recognition among committee members of the need for a comprehensive energy strategy that includes various energy sources, including gas, nuclear, and renewables. Baer praised the governor's recent efforts to advance energy policy discussions and expressed optimism about the potential for collaboration among legislators to create effective legislation.

In conclusion, the committee's meeting reflected a growing consensus on the importance of developing a responsible energy policy that not only addresses environmental concerns but also fosters job creation and economic growth in Pennsylvania. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential revisions to proposed legislation to ensure it meets the needs of both the environment and the state's workforce.