The PPL Corporation has decided that it would like to increase its workforce around the globe from around 3,000 employees to 5,000 employees over the span of the next ten years. The announcement came from the CEO of the PPL Corp., William Spence, who wanted to make it clear that the corporation was planning on increasing its existing employment. Employees will be hired for a number of different positions, which includes engineering positions, technicians and linemen as well. Spence said that he could not provide information on where the jobs would be added but did say that additions would be made company-wide.

The PPL Corporation, which is based in the Allentown area, currently employs a total of around 17,000 employees around the globe. Of those 17,000 employees, a total of 2,400 are currently working in the Lehigh Valley area, which would count for a total of 14 percent. The company also employs a total of 6,000 individuals over in the United Kingdom.

At Hotel Bethlehem, Spence spoke of the company and its recent activity, along with the plans that are set to fall in place for the company. A total of around 15 different business people attended the event at the Hotel Bethlehem. Spence also said that the PPL is planning to spend billions of dollars over the span of the next four years for upgrading purposes. They are looking to set up new power stations as well. The company has recently put out billions of dollars for acquisitions over the past two years, having bought electricity operation in two different areas. The acquisitions, according to Spence, were absolutely necessary because they have helped the company to become more diverse and also helped to expand its portfolio. Spence also said, “We’re trying to avoid the volatility of the commodity markets.”

The state of Pennsylvania has been deregulating the electricity market for the past two years, ever since 2010. It was believed that such a chance would provide more choices for consumers, along with numerous competitive prices to choose from. The Vice President of the Capital Blue Cross, Anne Baum, has questioned whether or not consumers have actually been able to benefit from such changes. Baum said, “I tried to do it but it’s not all that straightforward.” In the meantime, Spence insists that there are plenty of discounts that are available. Spence has even said, “I’ve really encouraged customers and employees to shop, I’m not saying they should switch, but it’s not hurting the company. We don’t profit from it.”