HARRISBURG – Sen. Joe Pittman (R-41) joined with colleagues today to submit public comments in strong support of the proposed consent decree between the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and Keystone-Conemaugh Projects, LLC (Key-Con), operator of the Keystone and Conemaugh Generating Stations. The decree is currently under public review in the Court of Common Pleas of Indiana County.
The proposed consent decree was announced in December and establishes a schedule for the two coal-fired plants to install and begin operating bottom ash system upgrades to meet EPA requirements for wastewater discharges.
Pittman highlighted the agreement represents a pragmatic approach to successfully achieve both environmental compliance and the preservation of critical baseload power generation.
“For decades, the Keystone and Conemaugh Generating Stations have been cornerstones of Pennsylvania’s economy and energy security,” Pittman stated. “These plants directly employ over 1,000 workers and sustain thousands more in supply chains, including coal mining and transportation. They contribute nearly $5 million annually in property taxes alone, supporting local schools, governments, and communities in Armstrong and Indiana Counties.”
The public comment period ends on February 9th, after which DEP will evaluate and file responses to the comments, then petition the Indiana County Court of Common Pleas to rule on the decree.
“Approving this decree and allowing the continued operation of these plants will safeguard jobs and bolster grid stability, while also ensuring protection of our natural resources. I urge DEP to enter the decree promptly, sending a clear signal that Pennsylvania prioritizes a true “all-of-the-above” energy strategy for a resilient future,” Pittman concluded.
Media Contact: Kate Eckhart Flessner