Rep. Martin Causer, representing Cameron, McKean, and Potter counties in Pennsylvania, will continue as the Republican chairman of the House Environmental Resources and Energy Committee for the 2025-26 Legislative Session.
"Energy needs continue to grow here in the Commonwealth, across the country and around the world," Causer stated. He emphasized that "Pennsylvania can play a significant role in meeting this increasing demand, if only government would get out of the way." His primary objective as chairman is to advocate for policies that leverage Pennsylvania's energy potential.
One of his priorities is addressing the reliability of Pennsylvania's electric grid. During a recent committee hearing, it was highlighted that government subsidies and regulations favoring renewable energy sources such as wind and solar could disrupt the free market dynamics that have historically made Pennsylvania an energy leader with low consumer costs.
The increasing demand on the electric grid due to factors like Artificial Intelligence, data centers, and electrification of heating and transportation is compounded by policies from the Shapiro administration that limit energy production in Pennsylvania. Causer warned, "At best, this will lead to higher costs for consumers. At worst, it could lead to more frequent power outages or even rolling blackouts."
Causer stressed the importance of producing energy from both fossil fuels and renewable sources to maintain a stable electric grid. He remarked, "The key to economic growth in Pennsylvania is increased energy production." With an incoming federal administration focused on enhanced energy production, he sees an opportunity for state and federal collaboration to boost economic growth and reduce energy costs.
The Environmental Resources and Energy Committee oversees a wide range of responsibilities related to Pennsylvania's energy resources. This includes regulatory oversight, conservation efforts, public land initiatives, surface mining policies, forestry management, mineral leasing activities, and air and water resource management. The committee also holds legislative oversight over the departments of Environmental Protection and Conservation and Natural Resources.
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