Oppose Costly Extension of Outdated Coal Plants

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's (FERC) recent decision to approve PJM Interconnection's plan to recover payments for keeping outdated fossil fuel power plants operational. This decision unfairly burdens electricity customers across 13 states with increased costs to prop up a dying industry. The U.S. Department of Energy's extension order for the Eddystone Generating Station in suburban Philadelphia is estimated to cost nearly $70 million annually. This exorbitant expense is being passed on to consumers who may not even benefit from the plant's continued operation. Moreover, experts warn that if this trend of prolonging the life of fossil fuel plants continues, costs could skyrocket to $3-6 billion nationwide by 2029. The Trump administration's energy policy, which focuses heavily on fossil fuels, is misguided and economically detrimental to your constituents. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright, a former oil and mining executive, supports keeping coal plants operational, citing peak electricity demands and growing consumption. However, this approach ignores the rapid advancements and cost-effectiveness of renewable energy sources. While PJM cites concerns about demand growth and power plant retirements affecting reliability and affordability, critics argue that PJM has failed to efficiently process new project connections, contributing to the capacity issues. This suggests that the problem lies not in a lack of fossil fuel plants, but in bureaucratic inefficiencies that hinder the transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy sources. I urge you to take immediate action to reverse this decision and prevent similar future rulings. We need policies that promote the rapid development and integration of renewable energy sources, improve grid infrastructure, and streamline the process for bringing new generating capacity online. This approach will not only address our energy needs but also protect consumers from unnecessary financial burdens and combat climate change. Please advocate for a comprehensive review of FERC's decision-making process and push for legislation that prioritizes clean energy development over propping up outdated and costly fossil fuel infrastructure. Your constituents deserve an energy policy that is both economically sound and environmentally responsible.