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Shipley Energy
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Thomas Shipley, a civic-minded engineer and president of York Ice Machinery, founded Roosevelt Oil Service in York in 1929, driven by a belief that a locally owned energy business could meaningfully improve his community. Now operating as Shipley Energy, the company has provided electricity, heating oil, propane, natural gas, fuel and HVAC services for 97 years and employs 295 people.
Four generations of the Shipley family have led the business. Samuel H. Shipley succeeded his father, growing the company steadily over 45 years. William S. Shipley II modernized and expanded the operation, rebranding it as Shipley Energy. William Shipley III, the current owner, served as CEO for 24 years and oversaw the company’s expansion into natural gas and electricity markets.
Shipley navigated the loss of its founder in 1930, the Great Depression, World War II and the 1970s oil embargo to become one of Pennsylvania’s largest independent energy suppliers. Thomas Shipley’s founding conviction endures: “neighbors deserve to be treated as neighbors, not account numbers.”
A Charitable Contribution Committee directs philanthropic giving toward children’s welfare, the arts and education. Under CEO Dave Gruno, the company stated that “our future is driven by adaptability, innovation, and sustainability,” with plans to expand sustainable fuel options and invest in smart energy technology.
