## Governors Unite too Demand PJM Reform, Lower Energy Costs
A bipartisan coalition of governors from across the Mid-Atlantic and Midwest have formed a collaborative to address soaring electricity prices and concerns over the management of PJM, the regional grid operator. the group, led by New Jersey Governor Phil murphy, aims to increase transparency and accountability within PJM and advocate for reforms that prioritize affordability and reliability for consumers.
“We need to build a system that is fairer and more clear for the people we serve, and the states that represent them,” Governor Murphy stated. “I’m glad to see our region coming together across party lines to demand better.”
The collaborative, formalized in a Statement of Intent, will serve as a unified voice for the states in discussions wiht PJM and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Governors plan to coordinate strategies, develop joint positions on key issues, and maximize their collective impact.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “For nearly a century, Pennsylvanians have trusted PJM to keep the lights on, but PJM has been too slow to bring new generation online and too quick to saddle families with higher bills. It’s not working anymore.” He added that Pennsylvania and partner states are prepared to “chart a new course” if PJM doesn’t accelerate reforms.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore highlighted the economic impact of rising energy costs, noting that “Maryland families see double-digit rate increases and Maryland businesses see the ability to compete threatened.” he affirmed the group’s commitment to a ”safe,reliable,and affordable” grid.Illinois Governor JB Pritzker echoed these concerns, stating that PJM has historically made decisions “with minimal input from the states,” leading to increased costs and reliability risks. he stressed the need for states to have a “meaningful voice” in shaping the region’s energy future.
The collaborative’s formation follows earlier efforts by the region’s governors, including securing a temporary capacity market cap that mitigated perhaps even higher electricity costs this summer. the states are also pushing for broader market reforms at PJM to address the root causes of price spikes and advocating for the appointment of bipartisan candidates to fill vacancies within the organization, ensuring representation of state interests.
Signatories to the collaborative include Governors Matt Meyer (Delaware), Mike Braun (Indiana), Mike DeWine (Ohio), Bill lee (Tennessee), Glenn youngkin (Virginia), Wes Moore (Maryland), Gretchen Whitmer (michigan), Josh stein (North Carolina), JB Pritzker (Illinois), and Josh Shapiro (Pennsylvania).
