Northern Tier News

Rep. Martin Causer will return as the Republican chairman of the House Environmental Resources and Energy Committee for the 2025-26 Legislative Session. In a statement, Causer emphasized Pennsylvania's potential in meeting growing energy demands if government interference is minimized. "Energy needs continue to grow here in the Commonwealth, across the country and around the world," he stated. "My goal as chairman is to continue advocating for policies that help realize our untapped energy potential."

The reliability of Pennsylvania’s electric grid is set to be a primary focus. A recent committee hearing highlighted concerns that government subsidies and regulations favoring renewable sources like wind and solar could disrupt the free market design that has traditionally benefited Pennsylvania's energy sector.

Causer pointed out the increasing demand on the electric grid due to factors such as Artificial Intelligence proliferation, data centers, and electrification of heating and transportation. He also criticized policies from the Shapiro administration that may restrict energy production within Pennsylvania. "At best, this will lead to higher costs for consumers," he said. "At worst, it could lead to more frequent power outages or even rolling blackouts."

Causer advocates for producing energy from both fossil fuels and renewable sources to maintain a stable grid. "The key to economic growth in Pennsylvania is increased energy production," he continued. With an incoming Trump administration focused on enhancing energy production, Causer sees an opportunity for state and federal collaboration on this issue.

The Environmental Resources and Energy Committee oversees various aspects of Pennsylvania’s energy resources, including regulations, conservation efforts, public lands initiatives, surface mining policies, forestry management, mineral leasing, and air and water resource oversight.