New partnerships to Boost Energy Jobs

By Blake Jackson

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has announced two key partnerships under its new RISE PA (Reducing Industrial Sector Emissions in Pennsylvania) initiative. These partnerships aim to boost energy job opportunities, lower emissions, and help small and mid-sized manufacturers stay competitive.

DEP will work with Penn State’s Pennsylvania Technical Assistance Program (PennTAP) and Catalyst Connection to deliver technical support and grant funding. PennTAP offers no-cost help to manufacturers, focusing on energy efficiency and environmental improvements. The program will support around 800 small and medium-sized businesses across the state.

“These partnerships are a win-win for Pennsylvania,” said DEP Acting Secretary Jessica Shirley. “RISE PA is about investing in our people, our planet, and our economy. By helping manufacturers reduce energy waste and adopt cutting-edge technologies, we’re not only supporting cleaner air and lower energy costs—we’re also creating more good-paying energy jobs right here in Pennsylvania.”

PennTAP will provide hands-on technical assistance, helping businesses find and apply energy-saving solutions. Tanna Pugh, Director of PennTAP, called RISE PA a “game-changer,” emphasizing that energy-efficient technology adoption will boost sustainability and keep industries strong.

Catalyst Connection, an economic development group based in Pittsburgh, will assist companies in applying for RISE PA grants. They will also offer technical training to support innovation and workforce growth in clean energy fields.

“RISE PA is a game-changer for Pennsylvania manufacturers,” said Tanna Pugh, director of PennTAP. “By helping manufacturers adopt energy-efficient technology, this program lowers costs, boosts sustainability and keeps Pennsylvania industries competitive in a changing economy.”

Through these partnerships, Pennsylvania is setting the stage for a cleaner, stronger, and more competitive industrial economy, benefiting businesses, workers, and the environment.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski