State Senators Gene Yaw (R-23) and Nick Miller (D-14) have announced plans to introduce bipartisan legislation aimed at improving the accuracy of electric load forecasting in Pennsylvania. The bill seeks to address concerns about how future electricity demand is predicted, a process that currently relies on forecasts submitted by the state’s electric utilities to PJM, the organization responsible for managing the mid-Atlantic power grid.
The proposed legislation is intended to strengthen oversight by Pennsylvania authorities, specifically by enhancing the role of the Public Utility Commission (PUC) in validating utility forecasts. Senator Yaw emphasized the importance of reliable data for long-term planning, stating, “As demand continues to grow rapidly, it is critical that we have reliable, transparent data to guide long-term planning. This legislation will ensure the Public Utility Commission (PUC) has the tools it needs to validate forecasts and protect ratepayers from unnecessary costs.”
Senator Miller highlighted consumer protection as a key motivation behind the bill. “Now more than ever, we must prioritize consumers and the future of energy in Pennsylvania,” Miller said. “This bipartisan legislation will enhance forecasting tools to facilitate effective planning and cost management, ultimately benefiting Pennsylvania consumers as electricity demand continues to rise. We find ourselves at a pivotal moment where the need for increased energy generation is clear, and it is important that we seek solutions now that do not adversely affect consumers.”
Electricity demand across PJM’s region has been increasing due to factors such as growth in data centers, greater use of electric vehicles, and more electrification of homes and businesses. PJM projects that by 2030, regional demand will increase by 32 gigawatts, with 30 gigawatts attributed to new data centers.
Accurate forecasting is crucial because it determines infrastructure needs and affects decisions impacting consumer costs. A recent report from the Pennsylvania PUC identified inconsistencies in current utility projections and noted significant disparities in how utilities assess new service requests and communicate with PJM.
Yaw and Miller stated that their legislative proposal would give the PUC additional authority to improve load forecasting processes. They described this step as essential for protecting consumers, ensuring grid reliability, and restoring public trust in major energy decisions.
For further information on state-related news or details about this initiative, constituents can visit Senator Yaw’s website at www.SenatorGeneYaw.com or Senator Miller’s website at www.pasenatormiller.com.
