Here’s how (and when) the Lightning Plan could save you money

Gov. Josh Shapiro’s Lightning Plan, which has advanced in the General Assembly, is a package of proposals aimed at improving energy efficiency and lowering costs for Pennsylvania families. While lawmakers have already passed some components of the plan, others await legislative approval—including updated renewable energy standards, expanded energy-saving rebates, and new anti-pollution regulations. But what do these initiatives mean for your wallet? Here are six elements of the Lightning Plan that could help everyday Pennsylvanians save money. 

Lower monthly bills

Slashing monthly energy costs is at the heart of the Lightning Plan. The Plan’s PJM Electricity Bill has already passed and will take effect in 2026 with the aim of changing how power is bought and shared throughout the state, while the Community Energy Act has also been approved and will allow residents to split bills between neighbors. Rebates from energy efficient purchases could also offset electric costs for consumers (more on that below). 

Job creation

A healthy economy equals a healthy job market, and the Lightning Plan takes this into account. The plan’s proposed overhaul of the Pennsylvania Economic Development for a Growing Economy (PA EDGE) tax credit program would bring new, energy-conscious businesses and companies to Pennsylvania in exchange for—you guessed it—tax credits. In turn, local economies and the job market could further stabilize for the Pennsylvania workforce over the next few years. 

Stabilized food prices

You might breathe a sigh of relief in the grocery store checkout line thanks to the Lightning Plan’s efforts to promote use of methane digesters on farms. Digesters break down manure and other organic material to create methane gas, which can be used as a renewable energy source. This enables farmers to use their own waste to generate energy needed for farming, thus cutting costs and allowing more stable food prices for consumers. This initiative is already ongoing, with expansion expected to continue for the foreseeable future. 

Cleaner air

Here’s a change you might just be able to feel: If the Lightning Plan’s Pennsylvania Climate Emissions Reduction (PACER) Act is passed, the state would place caps on carbon emissions and require financial payment from companies and businesses that exceed these caps. Over-use payments would be funneled back into the community and applied as rebates on residents’ electric bills. In short, PACER could clear the air and expand your wallet. 

Faster access to cheaper energy 

Organizations prioritizing energy efficiency would find the process more seamless with help from the Lightning Plan’s proposed Reliable Energy Siting and Electric Transition (RESET) Board, a panel of knowledgeable members authorized to approve expedited construction permits for energy-related endeavors in Pennsylvania. Faster implementation of new businesses and projects would also boost local job growth. 

New consumer incentives

In the market for a new washer, dryer, or refrigerator? The Act 129 Energy Efficiency Program has been passed and offers rebates and discounts for Pennsylvanians who purchase energy efficient appliances. Another element of the Lightning Plan, the Expanded Appliances Rebate, has already passed and started its rollout process. The concept is simple: If you opt for an appliance that’s good for Pennsylvania’s energy sector, you’ll get a larger rebate to offset the purchase price.