Williams and Governor Shapiro Address Energy Affordability

February 3, 2026

HARRISBURG – Rep. Craig Williams (R-Chester/Delaware) issued the following statement in response to Gov. Josh Shapiro’s state budget address Tuesday:

“Last year, the General Assembly passed a bipartisan budget which delivered real progress for Pennsylvanians. I supported that outcome, because it reflected responsible investment in the issues that matter most to families across the Commonwealth.

“This year, I focused closely on the governor’s energy message during his budget address, especially his recognition that data centers and other large power users are already driving electricity costs higher. Pennsylvanians face unacceptable electric bills. Families and small businesses should not shoulder even higher costs, because there is no viable plan to dramatically increase our electricity supply.

“I agree with the Governor’s core principle. Hyper-scalers must bring their own generation. Ratepayers must not subsidize their energy needs through higher prices. Pennsylvania produces electricity for much of the region, and our residents deserve affordability and fairness first.

“The Governor’s Responsible Infrastructure Development standards point in the right direction. However, its precepts require some professional insight. I hope the Governor is open to refining these principles to foster a gold-rush of new Pennsylvania power. It is the only cure for high prices.

“This budget cycle must deliver energy policies that expand generation in Pennsylvania, assign costs fairly and protect consumers as demand rises across the PJM region. I will keep pressing that work with colleagues in both parties, so the final budget serves Pennsylvanians well.”


Representative Craig Williams
160th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives