House Bill 505 proposes reforms to modernize Pennsylvania's Act 129 energy efficiency program

The Pennsylvania House of Representatives' Consumer Protection, Technology & Utilities Committee convened on June 24, 2025, to discuss significant reforms proposed in House Bill 505, aimed at modernizing the state's energy efficiency programs.

The meeting highlighted the need for updates to Act 129, which governs energy efficiency initiatives. Stakeholders emphasized that the energy efficiency landscape has evolved since the act's inception in 2008, necessitating a more comprehensive approach to energy management. The proposed reforms in House Bill 505 are seen as crucial steps toward empowering consumers to better manage their energy usage.

Key discussions included the introduction of penalty reforms. The current mandatory penalty structure, which imposes fines ranging from $1 million to $20 million regardless of the circumstances, would be replaced with a system that allows for greater discretion by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC). This change aims to ensure that penalties are more proportional to the efforts made by utilities to comply with regulations.

The committee acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the governor's office, the Energy Association, and other stakeholders in drafting amendments to House Bill 505. These amendments are designed to enhance the effectiveness of energy efficiency programs and foster cooperation among various energy efficiency offerings.

In conclusion, the committee's discussions reflect a growing recognition of the need to adapt Pennsylvania's energy policies to current market conditions, with House Bill 505 poised to play a pivotal role in this transformation. The next steps will involve further deliberation on the proposed reforms and their potential impact on consumers and utilities alike.