The Commonwealth Foundation's Elizabeth B. Stelle: Restoring Pennsylvania's Energy Edge

WASHINGTON — July 20, 2026 — Elizabeth B. Stelle, Vice President of Policy at The Commonwealth Foundation, discusses Pennsylvania's energy landscape and the state's potential to address rising energy costs in a recent episode of the Powering America Podcast.

In the episode, Stelle highlights Pennsylvania's significant role in the energy sector, noting that it is the second-largest producer of coal and natural gas in the United States. She emphasizes the importance of state policies in shaping the future of energy affordability and reliability, especially as the demand for electricity increases.

This discussion is crucial as Pennsylvania faces rising electricity rates, which have surpassed the national average. Stelle argues that poor state policies have hindered the construction of new power plants, contributing to the increase in costs for consumers.

"Wouldn't you rather benefit from it?" Stelle said, addressing the need for investment in Pennsylvania's energy infrastructure. "When we shut the door to these types of innovations, we drive the young people away."

Stelle also noted, "The investment is going to happen somewhere. We want to ensure it happens in Pennsylvania, done responsibly and transparently."

The conversation underscores the challenges and opportunities facing Pennsylvania as it navigates its energy future, with potential implications for the broader national energy landscape.