
Some Pennsylvania farmers are already benefiting from clean energy. (Photo By Ryan McFadden/MediaNews Group/Reading Eagle via Getty Images)
While Pennsylvania trails behind some states in energy efficiency, new investments and financial incentives could indicate a shift toward prioritizing clean energy in the Commonwealth.
A new battery plant could signal progress toward integrating clean energy into Pennsylvania’s economic growth and affordability strategy.
Last month, the Commonwealth announced a $352.9 million investment by Eos Energy Enterprises to expand its battery manufacturing operations and relocate its headquarters from New Jersey to Pittsburgh. The project is expected to create 735 new jobs and retain 265 additional roles—that’s 1,000 positions in Allegheny County.
Gov. Josh Shapiro called the project, which the state will support with $22 million in grants and capital funding, “a testament to our region’s collaborative spirit and commitment to shared prosperity.”
Eos’s 432,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Marshall Township is expected to partner with institutions like Carnegie Mellon University and local labor unions to build out advanced energy-storage capability.
Local, unlimited, and affordable
Clean energy accounted for just 4% of Pennsylvania’s in-state electricity in 2023. But investments like the Eos facility are part of a growing number of projects that could signal a trend toward prioritizing energy efficiency.
Pennsylvania is home to more than 1,100 solar businesses, 24 wind farms, and an increasing number of smart grid and energy storage projects. The state also manufactures renewable energy components. As those numbers grow, clean energy advocates hope benefits for Pennsylvanians will follow suit.
Expanded and accessible renewable energy in the Commonwealth could bring financial relief for families by protecting consumers from rising utility rates. The return on energy efficient systems is substantial: Every dollar invested in clean energy upgrades generates $2 to $3 in savings. Some Pennsylvanians say this formula has already paid off—in 2023, Somerset County farmer Rich Perkoski installed solar panels on his barn and saw his dairy farm’s monthly electricity bill drop from $2,500 to $74.
Although Pennsylvania still trails many states in renewable energy growth, endeavors like the Eos facility—along with expanded incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act and state policies—could represent a shift in momentum. For households and businesses seeking sustainable solutions, clean energy offers a resource that is cost-effective, locally sourced, and virtually unlimited.
Support Our Cause
Thank you for taking the time to read our work. Before you go, we hope you'll consider supporting our values-driven journalism, which has always strived to make clear what's really at stake for Pennsylvanians and our future.
Since day one, our goal here at The Keystone has always been to empower people across the commonwealth with fact-based news and information. We believe that when people are armed with knowledge about what's happening in their local, state, and federal governments—including who is working on their behalf and who is actively trying to block efforts aimed at improving the daily lives of Pennsylvania families—they will be inspired to become civically engaged.
The Fortune 500 reason Reading’s CRIZ started modestly while Erie’s rocketed to life
The state recently announced two critical numbers in Erie's and Reading’s journeys to get their special development zones off the ground. Each has...
Wheeler warns York County could face tax hikes if state budget impasse isn’t resolved soon
York County President Commissioner Julie Wheeler issued a stark warning this week about the financial strain caused by Pennsylvania’s ongoing state...
The long wait is almost over. New Pittsburgh International Airport terminal close to opening
Airport officials have not announced an official date yet, but have promised it will be before Thanksgiving travel. A sneak peek of the terminal was...
Pa. Gov. Shapiro said electric grid operator PJM needs reform to put consumers first
Energy industry leaders and regulators said they share concern about the 13-state organization’s transparency. The organization that manages the...
Erie’s $72M lead pipe replacement project is ongoing. How much work has been completed?
If noise, heavy equipment and slicing holes into the street helps protect public health, Rebekah Weaver is more than willing to endure some...



