Since early April, the Marcellus Shale Coalition has tracked the efforts of the Pennsylvania energy industry and their contributions to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus. In a month’s time, companies have pledged about $6 million to be deployed in relief efforts both locally and across the nation.
These companies include: ExxonMobil, Marathon Petroleum Corp., Range Resources, Energy Transfer, EQT Foundation, NRG Energy, Southwestern Energy, Seneca Resources, Cabot Oil & Gas, Chevron, Dominion Energy, Williams, Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania, UGI Energy Services, Equitrans Midstream, Grey Lock Energy, and Olympus Energy.
Other efforts from the industry support the first responders and hospital workers on the front lines – donating meals and protective equipment or providing funds for local food banks. Moreover, companies in the processing business are pivoting to work on producing feedstock materials to increase the production of hand sanitizer and personal protective equipment.
In the face of such unprecedented challenges, it is important that both corporations, business leaders, and individuals step up to help as they can. It is reassuring to see companies reaffirm their commitment to the Commonwealth as they continue to invest in Pennsylvanians – from providing the energy that is used each day to keep the lights on in hospitals and supply chains operational, to making much-needed financial donations and manufacturing life-saving personal protective equipment.