Press Release · Powering America Podcast
The Net-Zero Illusion: Gordon Tomb on Green Mandates and the Grid
Published · Featuring Gordon W Tomb of The Commonwealth Foundation
Gordon W. Tomb, Senior Fellow at The Commonwealth Foundation, discusses the impact of green energy mandates on electricity costs in the latest Powering America
Gordon W Tomb, a Senior Fellow at The Commonwealth Foundation, discusses the implications of Green Energy Mandates, Electricity Pricing, Nuclear Energy, and Fossil Fuels on the latest episode of the Powering America Podcast. The conversation highlights the challenges and costs associated with current energy policies.
WASHINGTON — November 3, 2026 — In the latest episode of the Powering America Podcast, Gordon W Tomb, a Senior Fellow at The Commonwealth Foundation, addresses the impact of green energy mandates on electricity pricing and the viability of nuclear energy and fossil fuels. The discussion reveals the complexities of energy policy and its effects on consumers and the economy.
Tomb critiques Pennsylvania's Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards, which mandate that electricity sellers provide a certain percentage of energy from renewable sources. He notes that despite billions spent over 20 years, only 4% of the state's electricity comes from these sources. "At this point, of all the electricity generated in Pennsylvania, 4% comes from so-called renewable sources. After 20 years, and billions of dollars. What is the point?" Tomb emphasizes the lack of tangible benefits from these mandates.
The conversation also touches on the political landscape surrounding energy policies. Tomb remarks on the growing pushback against green energy mandates due to rising electricity prices and potential shortages. He states, "It's totally irrational. And as I mentioned, people are starting to back away from it." He points out that even politicians who once supported these mandates are reconsidering their positions as the economic realities become clearer.
The Commonwealth Foundation is a free market think tank based in Pennsylvania that advances policies rooted in free market principles.
About the Powering America Podcast
The Powering America Podcast focuses on energy, infrastructure, policy, and economic growth, providing insights and discussions on the current state of America's energy landscape.
About The Commonwealth Foundation
The Commonwealth Foundation is a free-market public policy think tank based in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, focusing on educational opportunity, fiscal responsibility, and government accountability
About the Powering America Podcast
The Powering America Podcast hosts conversations on energy, infrastructure, policy and economic growth — interviewing the operators, regulators, and innovators powering America's grid, gas, nuclear, and industrial future. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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