Kinkead: Governor’s clean energy initiative is the right step for PA

HARRISBURG, March 22 – State Rep. Emily Kinkead, D-Allegheny, issued the following statement on Gov. Tom Wolf’s announcement on the Project to Utilize Light and Solar Energy, part of the GreenGov initiative:

“I fully support and applaud the Wolf administration’s efforts, which will positively impact our state and move us further away from a fossil fuel-based economy.

“Nearly two years ago, an executive order was introduced that paved the way for our state to join the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative. The fact that we have not moved closer to joining RGGI is beyond frustrating, especially when you consider that in July of last year, our nation tied with July 2016 as the second hottest month on record. Our polar caps are continuing to melt, sea levels and temperatures rise, and forest areas in the Amazon and across our world continue to burn.

“It’s imperative we do more to combat climate change, and today’s announcement will make a significant impact. PULSE will launch the largest solar energy commitment by any government entity in our country. It will supply about half the energy used by state government, creating hundreds of jobs and making a huge impact in lowering carbon dioxide emissions. This effort closely aligns with my bill, H.B. 989, to be known as the Energy Transition Recovery Act, which would direct funds from the sale of carbon allowances sold at auction through RGGI to methods designed to reduce carbon dioxide emission in our state to zero by 2050.

Our right to clean air and water is guaranteed in our state constitution. Our current and future generations are counting on us, and we have the tools and resources necessary to do so. The time to act is now.”