Press Release

PUC Chairman Powelson Encourages PA Utilities to Participate in Programs to Create Energy Jobs

Published on 2/16/2012

Filed under: Electric Gas

HARRISBURG – Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission Chairman Robert F. Powelson today urged the state’s public utilities to participate in several new programs proposed by Gov. Tom Corbett and the Edison Electric Institute (EEI) to create jobs in the energy sector.  The Chairman also noted that the time is right for job growth with the development of the Marcellus Shale industry and electric competition across the state.

“Today, I encourage Pennsylvania’s electric and natural gas utilities to learn from the example set by EEI and participate in the Troops to Energy Jobs program, as well as Governor Corbett’s Jobs First PA initiative," Chairman Powelson said in a statement at the PUC’s Public Meeting.  "In the days ahead, the PUC will be coordinating with EEI and the Corbett Administration to connect our energy companies with these innovative programs.”

The Chairman referenced Gov. Corbett's annual budget address to the General Assembly last week.

“In his address, the Governor recognized that the energy sector has enormous potential for producing new jobs and putting the unemployed back to work,” Chairman Powelson said.  “In announcing his new Jobs First program, the Governor stated that, ‘as our energy sector expands, Pennsylvania needs a trained workforce ready to meet the demand for workers.’”

Chairman Powelson said the EEI launched its Troops for Energy Jobs initiative, which is designed to accelerate the training and employability of veterans in key energy programs.  EEI is currently piloting this program through five energy companies throughout the nation. For more information on the Troops for Energy Jobs initiative, visit http://www.troopstoenergyjobs.com.   

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases, audio of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.state.pa.us.

# # #

Contact:

• Tom Charles
  Director of Communications
  717-787-9504
  thcharles@pa.gov