The Democratic governor said the legislation takes away “local decision-making” from municipalities that are looking to address climate change.
Natural gas prices hit an average of $4.10 per million British thermal units in the first three months of 2022.
‘Blue’ hydrogen still emits some carbon dioxide, whereas ‘green’ hydrogen doesn’t. But right now, blue hydrogen is more cost-efficient than because it relies on technology that’s been around for almost a century.
With natural gas prices rising and amid another report stressing the urgency of cutting carbon emissions, it’s a ‘reasonable reaction’ that people would look to renewables and efficiency measures, one analyst said.
The importance of the natural gas industry is emerging as a top issue among Republican contenders for governor before the state’s May 17 primary.
A slate of bills reference the energy situation in Europe caused by Russia’s war with Ukraine, though many of the issues the bills would address have lingered in the legislature for years.
Production of gas gained by fracking grew faster than in 2020, but not as fast as it did pre-pandemic.
The bill, spearheaded by gas industry lobbyists and sponsored by state Sen. Gene Yaw (R-Lycoming), would block municipalities from limiting fossil fuel use and promoting electrification.
By Susan Phillips 
