Rep. Martin Causer (R-Cameron/McKean/Potter) will again serve as 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 said. “Pennsylvania can play a significant role in meeting this increasing demand, if only government would get out of the way by reducing burdensome regulations and permitting. My goal as chairman is to continue advocating for policies that help realize our untapped energy potential.”

Addressing the reliability of the state’s electric grid is a top priority in the coming session. At a committee hearing in the fall, members were told government subsidies and regulations that

incentivize particular energy sources, especially renewable sources like wind and solar that are less reliable, can threaten the free market design of the energy industry that has historically allowed Pennsylvania to be an energy powerhouse with low costs for consumers.

The proliferation of Artificial Intelligence and data centers, as well as the electrification of heating and transportation, are placing greater demand on the electric grid, while, at the same time, the Shapiro administration is pushing policies that inhibit energy production in the Commonwealth.

“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 said. “The perfect storm is forming, and it’s up to us to step in and make sure we have the resources necessary to maintain a stable, reliable electric grid for our citizens. That means producing energy both from fossil fuels AND renewable sources.

“The key to economic growth in Pennsylvania is increased energy production,” he continued. “With the incoming Trump administration focused on enhanced energy production, I believe this is an opportunity for the state and federal governments to work together on this critical issue. We can grow our economy, put people to work and bring down the cost of energy.”

The Environmental Resources and Energy Committee has broad jurisdiction over the state’s energy resources and development. This includes regulations and conservation efforts; initiatives related to public lands and their renewable resources; policies affecting surface mining, coal, oil and gas, forestry, and mineral leasing; and oversight of air and water resources.

The committee also has legislative oversight of the departments of Environmental Protection and Conservation and Natural Resources.