Report: Beaver County population, employment decline despite taxpayer-backed chemical plant

Reid FrazierFebruary 7, 2025

A report by the Ohio River Valley Institute found population, gross domestic product and employment declined since 2012, when the Shell ethane cracker was announced.

EconomyEnergyThe Coming Chemical Boom

Campaign pushes for more voices in the fight against air pollution in Allegheny County

Kara HolsoppleFebruary 5, 2025

The "Freedom to Breathe" campaign was launched in Allegheny County to address the disproportionate impact of pollution on Black and brown communities.

EconomyEnergyEnvironmental JusticeHealthPollution

Pa. Gov. Josh Shapiro touts agreement to prevent spike in electricity bills

90.5 WESAJanuary 31, 2025

Governor Josh Shapiro said Pennsylvanians will be spared a steep rate increase proposed last year by the operator of the state's electric grid.

EconomyEnergy

Trump’s executive orders champion fossil fuels, knock back wind power

Kara HolsoppleJanuary 24, 2025

We break down President Donald Trump's executive orders that declare an energy emergency, prioritize drilling and pull back on wind and EV development.

Climate ChangeEconomyEnergyPollutionTransportationTrump on Earth

Report: Clean energy workforce is growing in Pennsylvania, but challenges remain

Reid FrazierJanuary 22, 2025

The number of clean energy jobs is growing in Pennsylvania, but what will it take to keep the momentum going?

Climate ChangeEconomyEnergyYour Environment Update

Biden administration awarded home energy rebate money to Pa. in final days

Sophia SchmidtJanuary 22, 2025

The rebates will reduce the cost of electric heat pumps, electric stoves, wiring and insulation. They’re expected to roll out this year.

Climate ChangeEconomyEnergy

One community’s journey to create ‘energy democracy’ through solar

Julie GrantJanuary 17, 2025

Residents came together to build a community-owned solar array in their neighborhood, which has faced historic disinvestment. It’s been a long road.

Climate ChangeEconomyEnergyEnvironmental Justice

How manufacturing in southwestern Pa. is building a clean, green future

Julia FraserJanuary 15, 2025

Federal clean energy funds have fueled growth in manufacturing in the region. A skilled workforce and continued investments are key.

Climate ChangeEconomy

Coal was on its way out. But surging electricity demand is keeping it alive

FloodlightJanuary 15, 2025

Utilities are delaying coal plant retirements and running them even when they cost more than renewable sources.

Climate ChangeEconomyEnergyPollutionYour Environment Update

How could blocking Nippon Steel’s bid to buy U.S. Steel impact the region’s air quality?

Reid FrazierJanuary 8, 2025

President Biden blocked Nippon Steel's bid to buy U.S. Steel, the region's largest source of air pollution. What might that mean for air quality?

EconomyHealth