New York is once again taking aim at its energy sector, with state lawmakers now pushing a $75 billion fee on energy producers. After obstructing the development of pipeline infrastructure for years, this is just the latest in a series of policies that have driven energy costs through the roof for our neighbors to the north, creating uncertainty for businesses in the Empire State that rely on affordable, reliable power.
As we have seen, the impacts of these policies can easily cross state borders, as businesses and industries are forced to adapt or relocate.
Meanwhile, in Pennsylvania, we have taken a different approach. With our vast natural gas reserves and a growing energy infrastructure, Pennsylvania is and should be focused on ensuring businesses have access to the affordable energy they need to thrive.
By embracing our natural resources, Pennsylvania has emerged as a national energy leader. We are the second-largest natural gas producing state in the country and the No. 1 exporter of electricity nationwide. Because of this, the commonwealth offers businesses a stable environment where they can grow without the fear of skyrocketing costs or supply shortages.
I sometimes joke that we should put billboards along our northern border inviting New Yorkers to move and relocate their businesses to Pennsylvania. The contrast between Pennsylvania’s forward-looking strategy and New York’s restrictive policies couldn’t be clearer, and the economic benefits for our state are already taking shape.
Natural gas has been a major driver of Pennsylvania’s economic development for over a decade. The industry has created thousands of jobs, revitalized local economies and provided a reliable energy source that keeps costs low for businesses and residents alike. Additionally, the increased usage of natural gas has not only lowered our emissions, but its production has helped position Pennsylvania as a top energy producer nationally, giving us a competitive advantage in attracting manufacturers and energy-intensive industries.
Our elected officials have also prioritized common sense, bipartisan solutions to support this growth, such as the improvement of Pennsylvania’s state permitting processes enacted in this year’s state budget. The state’s new Streamlining Permits for Economic Expansion and Development (SPEED) Program is designed to help businesses get the approvals they need without any unnecessary delays or altering environmental safeguards — a critical factor for employers in deciding where to invest.
Pennsylvania’s focus on maintaining a stable, business-friendly energy environment has paid dividends across the state. Thanks to the availability of affordable, reliable power, we have attracted investment in critical industries, including manufacturing, logistics and high-tech sectors. This growth has ripple effects, boosting employment, increasing local revenue, as well as driving infrastructure improvements in communities throughout the commonwealth.
Because energy costs are often among businesses’ largest expenses, Pennsylvania’s competitive energy landscape enables employers to keep costs down. As other states like New York burden their energy sector with new fees and restrictions, Pennsylvania’s energy policies have become a major asset for attracting businesses that need reliable, low-cost power to grow and expand.
As noted, Pennsylvania’s energy leadership does not come at the expense of environmental stewardship. By leveraging innovative technologies and working closely with state regulators, Pennsylvania’s energy sector has demonstrated that economic growth and environmental protection can go hand-in-hand. This pragmatic approach has allowed our commonwealth to increase energy development while reducing emissions at the same time.
As Pennsylvania continues to lead in energy production, we must remain committed to policies that encourage growth and innovation. The global energy landscape is constantly evolving, and, fortunately, Pennsylvania’s pro-energy approach positions us well to adapt to these changes while maintaining our competitive edge.
Meanwhile, states like New York only stand to fall further behind. Its restrictive policies are creating more uncertainty and driving businesses away, while Pennsylvania’s forward-thinking approach aims to attract new investment and foster our long-term economic stability.
For policymakers, the lesson is simple: Pennsylvania’s balanced, pro-business energy strategy is the key to sustaining growth and prosperity, not just for today, but for decades to come.
(Luke Bernstein is the president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry.)
