The state Senate Local Government Committee recently advanced legislation that gives Pennsylvania residents options regarding fuel availability.
Senate Bill 143, the Energy Choice legislation, would limit municipalities from banning a specific type of fuel source heating homes or businesses or for appliances. The bill does not specify one energy source.
The bill is in response to cities nationwide banning fuels used in newly constructed buildings.
“It’s about consumer choice and keeping energy costs low,” Sen. Gene Yaw (R-Bradford), the bill’s prime sponsor, said. “As many states seek to ban fuel sources, such as natural gas, Pennsylvania residents have a myriad of energy options to choose from, and we should keep it that way.”
The bill moves to the full Senate for consideration. It has the support of the Energy Association of Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, and Pittsburgh Works Together.
“Over the past decade, natural gas utilities in Pennsylvania have added many new customers,” Terrance J. Fitzpatrick, Energy Association of Pennsylvania president and CEO, said. “These residents and businesses chose natural gas because it was the best way to meet their needs and stay within their budgets. This legislation preserves the right of citizens to make those choices, and we hope legislators of both parties will support it.”