An article in the August Shuttle gave some background on the gas-fired power plant SEPTA intends to build near the Wayne Junction Regional Rail station. Much has happened since then — community meetings, hundreds of petition signatures and a letter of opposition signed by more than 50 community, faith, health and environmental groups.

SEPTA held no public hearings but did attend several community meetings to present their case. They did not respond to many of the arguments raised by plant opponents, but promised to keep the community informed; however, an agenda posted on the SEPTA website prior to the November board meeting was the only way of finding out that the plant was about to be voted on.

The public has a right to speak on board matters prior to voting; on the resolution to approve the power plant, more than 50 people were registered to speak. After only a handful had been called on, board member Robert Fox interrupted to give his own view on the merits of the plant, and the board chair called for a vote. Board members then walked out as the room erupted in protest. Meeting minutes made available weeks later said the resolution passed unanimously.

The power plant resolution began by citing a 2011 pledge to maintain budget neutrality for sustainability projects “requiring them to stand on their own financial merit via grants, financing or new revenue.” In other words, SEPTA has a policy not to invest in preparing for a sustainable future.

Based on a best-case cost analysis, where gas remains cheap for 20 years and no actions are taken to put a price on the climate and health impacts of fossil fuels, SEPTA plans to finance the plant under the PA Guaranteed Energy Savings Act.

Opponents of the plant still hope to convince SEPTA to invest in transitioning to clean, renewable energy sources rather than committing to 20 more years of generating fossil-fuel pollution and emissions.

Next steps for the plant include zoning approvals. Neighbors opposed to the plant are urging City Councilwoman Cindy Bass to protect public health and fight for a livable climate by taking decisive action to stop the project. They encourage the public to contact Bass at 215-686-3424 or cindy.bass@phila.gov. 

To learn more or get involved, go to www.350philadelphia.org/septa.