In “Consumers encouraged to conserve energy” (July 8, online), consumers in Butler were urged to conserve power by switching off “nonessential electric items” during periods of peak energy demand. This reflects a much larger issue: the looming energy supply crunch across the country, which could affect both businesses and consumers.

According to projections from the International Energy Agency, data centers are expected to consume nearly 6% of total U.S. electricity by 2026, up from 4% in 2022. Concurrently, increased manufacturing activity is set to drive up electricity demand even more.

Rather than focusing on limiting energy consumption, the U.S. should prioritize increasing energy production. For example, natural gas continues to play a key role in our lives, constituting 43% of electricity generation in 2023 and serving as a crucial baseload resource essential for grid stability. To create a stronger energy future, Washington must modernize the permitting processes and remove obstacles hindering the development of critical energy infrastructure.

Let’s refrain from saying no to any reliable energy source. Instead, we should adopt a comprehensive energy strategy to effectively confront future challenges.

Stephanie Catarino Wissman,

executive director,

American Petroleum Institute Pennsylvania