PA HR361

Directs the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a comprehensive study evaluating whether Pennsylvania should continue membership in PJM Interconnection, the regional transmission organization serving 65 million customers across 13 states and D.C.

Prompted by sharp capacity price increases: PJM's July 2024 auction raised prices from $29.50 to $270.35 per megawatt day (600% increase), costing Pennsylvania customers an estimated additional $2.2 billion; cumulative increases across recent auctions total approximately $4.9 billion.

Study must assess costs including membership fees, exit fees, price volatility impacts, and blackout risks, as well as benefits such as grid reliability, competitive market access, long-term consumer savings, and economic development.

Requires progress report to the General Assembly within 90 days and final report within 180 days, with public hearings, stakeholder comment opportunities, and publication of findings on the Public Utility Commission website.

Final report must include detailed cost-benefit findings, recommendations for action, and a summary of public input received.