PA SR188

Directs the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a comprehensive study evaluating the costs and benefits of Pennsylvania's continued membership in PJM Interconnection, the regional transmission organization serving approximately 65 million customers across 13 states and D.C.

PJM capacity auction prices increased 600% from $29.50 to $270.35 per megawatt-day for the June 2025-May 2026 period, resulting in an estimated $2.2 billion cost increase for Pennsylvania customers

Governor Shapiro negotiated a February 2025 settlement establishing price caps ($175 floor, ~$325 ceiling per MW-day) for the next two capacity auctions; cumulative estimated capacity cost increases across recent auctions total approximately $4.9 billion

Study must assess both costs (membership fees, exit costs, rate increases, blackout risks) and benefits (grid reliability, competitive markets, economic development, renewable energy integration) of PJM membership

Final report due within 180 days, with a progress report at 90 days; requires public hearings, stakeholder input, and publication of all data and findings on the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission website