Selina Pedi-Smith with
Guest Writer: Colin Russ of RAD Solar
Despite some uncertain weather conditions, we had a great turnout at the Bright Futures Fall Fest! Thank you to everyone who stopped by to learn more about our work, and for those who couldn’t make it, we invite you to join us at our next Coffee Chat on October 9th at Iron Furnace Coffee in Franklin.
One of the great things about the LEAP project is the chance to collaborate with people who are deeply passionate about energy and our community’s future. Colin Russ from RAD Solar is one of those partners, and he recently shared some thoughts on how projects like ours can help Pennsylvania seize new opportunities. His take really gets to the heart of why this work matters, and I’m excited to pass it along:
Colin Russ of RAD Solar:
PA has a long and proud history in energy production, starting with the nation’s first oil well 165 years ago. Our region’s rich resources have shaped America’s energy story. But as we look to the future, we must ensure we’re not stuck reminiscing about the past. Pennsylvania is poised to become an energy leader again, this time with renewables: solar, wind, hydrogen, and beyond.
Our Commonwealth’s contributions to traditional energy sources are impressive, but today we have an opportunity to re-industrialize Pennsylvania with homegrown energy solutions. Renewable energy, which some may see as a ‘political’ issue, actually offers us a practical, non-partisan chance to build economic and energy resilience.
A recent report found that jobs in the natural gas sector of electric generation are shrinking and have been for decades, while jobs in solar and wind power are growing. In fact, by the end of 2023, Pennsylvania’s clean energy labor market surpassed 145,000 jobs. These jobs are now the majority in our energy sector.
These trends aren’t a reflection of any one administration—they’re part of a natural shift as older industries wind down and new technologies take their place. Just as people once grumbled about “horseless carriages” replacing horses and carts, it’s no surprise that there’s some resistance to change now. But by investing in renewables, we can ensure that the benefits of local energy production—such as job creation and economic development—stay in Pennsylvania
Rachel Brosnahan is the Community Engagement Coordinator for River Roots Redevelopment. She can be reached by email at rachel@riverrootsredevelopment.org
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