We share the enthusiasm expressed by Jim Welty, president of the Marcellus Shale Coalition, regarding the economic potential tied to Pennsylvania’s energy resources. His recent commentary in the Williamsport Sun-Gazette highlights how northern regions of the state are poised to become hubs for emerging technologies and industrial innovation. n nAlthough questions remain about the practical applications and long-term impact of artificial intelligence, there is confidence that society will eventually harness its full potential. Data centers, in particular, are expected to play a crucial role in supporting digital infrastructure as technological progress accelerates. n nHowever, such advancements depend heavily on reliable energy sources. This is where Pennsylvania holds a distinct advantage—its vast reserves of natural gas. As Welty emphasized, the state’s natural gas is not only plentiful and cost-effective but also uniquely domestic, capable of meeting immediate and expanding energy demands. He noted that expanding its use strengthens the economy, sustains high-quality employment, and ensures the dependable power supply needed for a digital-driven future. n nWhile renewable options like solar and wind will undoubtedly contribute to the energy mix, natural gas stands out as the most dependable component. Unlike some alternatives, it does not rely on energy storage solutions such as batteries to maintain consistent output. Additionally, it emits fewer pollutants compared to other traditional energy sources—commonly referred to as fossil fuels. n nHistorically, a significant drop in U.S. carbon emissions has coincided with the transition from coal and oil to natural gas. Furthermore, as Pennsylvania fosters next-generation industries, technological improvements are likely to further minimize environmental impacts associated with conventional energy production. n nPolicymakers at every level should recognize the transformative potential before them. By supporting responsible development, they can help position northern Pennsylvania as a central force in powering future innovation and economic resilience. n— news from sungazette.com
— News Original —nGas remains ‘keystone’ of future economic growthnWe agree with Marcellus Shale Coalition President Jim Welty’s optimism — and we hope lawmakers across Pennsylvania can recognize the opportunities with which our state has been blessed. n nIn an op-ed column in this past weekend’s edition of the Williamsport Sun-Gazette, Welty detailed how northern Pennsylvania is well-positioned to be at the center of new technologies and industries. n nWhile we still have some reservations about the potential uses and effectiveness of artificial intelligence — or AI — we believe that in time we, as a nation and a society, can find the best applications of this new endeavor. And we don’t doubt how essential data centers will be as so many facets of technological advancement continue. n nBut these industries require energy. Which is why Pennsylvania, rich in natural gas, finds itself in an excellent position for sustained economic opportunity and growth. n n“Pennsylvania natural gas isn’t just abundant and affordable – it’s the only fully American energy source that can meet the growing, immediate demand,” Welty wrote. “Developing and using it strengthens our economy, supports good-paying jobs, and provides the reliability our digital future demands.” n nWhile we also believe there will be a role for solar, wind and other sources of energy to meet the demands of new industries and existing industries, the Marcellus Shale Coalition is right that Pennsylvania’s natural gas is the most critical piece of the puzzle — it does not require battery capacity to meet the economy’s needs consistently and produces less pollution than other conventional sources of energy or, as they are perhaps better known, “fossil fuels.” n nIn fact, as our past editorials have noted, a notable decrease in carbon emissions in the U.S. closely parallels the shift from other “fossil fuels” to natural gas. Moreover, the evolution of technology to which Pennsylvania could play host — and serve as home to newly-created jobs — will almost certainly assist developers in finding new ways of further reducing the impact of conventional energy sources. n nWe hope leaders throughout our region and state, at all levels, can appreciate the awe-inspiring scope of these opportunities and help northern Pennsylvania be the engine that powers future generations’ technologies.