Utility rate opposition, “Alleygators,” EV chargers, & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news:

Governor “vocally and forcefully” opposes utility rate increases. In an unusual move, Governor Josh Shapiro is stepping in to oppose rate increases if utility leaders propose hikes. The governor does not formally have a role in determining energy rates. Shapiro said that “we have reached a tipping point,” however, and that Pennsylvania consumers are burdened with high energy costs. Spotlight PA

PHS acquires tree planting grants for stormwater management. The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society is supporting tree planting across Southeastern Pennsylvania through their Trees for Watersheds program. The program bolsters restoration of native forests, which reduces polluted stormwater runoff and flooding, as well as improves drinking water. Two grantees in Philadelphia include the Fairmount Park Conservancy and the Delaware River City Corporation.  

New “Alleygator” program introduced during the latest round of citywide cleanup. Philly’s Office of Clean and Green Initiatives has begun the biannual One Philly, United City Cleaning Initiative. This time, the City is including a new “Alleygator” program to help residents clean and maintain alleyways. Requests for the alleyway cleaning program are available through an online portal. WHYY

City invests in more EV chargers. The city has chosen two companies, It’s Electric and PositivEnergy, to install public electric vehicle chargers over the next ten years. If approved by City Council, the chargers could ease drivers’ search for power sources. Christopher Puchalsky, a director at the Office of Transportation and Infrastructure Systems, noted that electric vehicles emit less air pollution than gasoline-fueled cars. Billy Penn

New Jersey shoreline gets federal funding for replenishment. After enduring tropical storms and blizzards, the Jersey Shore is receiving $73 million in sand replenishment funding. Beach towns are facing erosion issues, especially as storms intensify and oceans rise with climate change. The Philadelphia Inquirer

Illegal dumping activists testify at City Council hearing. Illegal dumping activists from the Clean Philadelphia Now coalition testified in front of City Council during budget hearings on Wednesday morning. Coalition members stated that the measures the city is taking are not enough, and that the majority of the budget is allocated towards abatement rather than prevention.

Cover photo: Electric vehicle charging. By myenergi on Unsplash