Arizona’s Renewable Energy Future Hinges on a Crucial Agency Election

Approval of new gas plants and rate hikes by the Arizona Corporation Commission draws lawsuits and climate outcry.
An Election for a Little-Known Agency Could Dictate the Future of Renewables in Arizona

PHOENIX—The Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) has recently approved significant changes to the state’s energy infrastructure, sparking controversy and legal challenges. Key decisions include the authorization of two gas power plants without public input, an expansion of another plant without environmental review, and the imposition of new fees on homeowners with solar panels, deemed “discriminatory” by the attorney general.

The ACC also sanctioned an 8% rate increase for Arizona’s largest utility, Arizona Public Service Co. (APS), partly to fund grid expansion despite cheaper alternatives. It further altered APS’s plan to aid communities affected by coal plant closures. These actions have prompted lawsuits and public outcry from environmentalists.

APS has historically invested heavily in influencing ACC elections. This November’s election is crucial, as the commission’s decisions are pivotal in shaping Arizona’s climate and renewable energy policies. Currently, the ACC has a Republican supermajority, but with three seats open, this balance could shift.

Republican candidates, including incumbent Lea Marquez Peterson, defend the need for a balanced energy portfolio to support growth and maintain grid reliability. They argue against renewable mandates, citing potential rate hikes. Meanwhile, Democratic candidates advocate for market-driven energy choices, emphasizing solar power’s economic and environmental benefits.

Arizona’s ACC, established in 1912, regulates utilities, setting customer rates and overseeing the power grid. With its current decisions favoring fossil fuels, critics argue the commission prioritizes utility profits over environmental and public health concerns. Two notable decisions this year include approving a rate hike and expanding UNS Electric’s gas facility without environmental oversight.

Environmental groups contend these changes increase costs for consumers while sustaining fossil fuel dependence. Legal actions are underway against the ACC’s approval of UNS Electric’s expansion, which bypassed environmental review by arguing each plant’s output was under 100 MW individually. Opponents claim the combined output should require regulatory scrutiny.

The outcome of the upcoming election could significantly impact Arizona’s energy policies, with potential repercussions for climate change and renewable energy adoption.

Original Story at insideclimatenews.org

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Federal Funding Targets Reduction of Carbon Emissions and Air Pollution at US Ports


The U.S. government has announced a new initiative to tackle carbon emissions and air pollution at the nation’s ports. This effort comes with the allocation of federal funds aimed at modernizing port infrastructure and promoting sustainable practices. The goal is to significantly reduce the environmental impact of port operations, a critical step in addressing climate change.



Significant Investments in Green Technologies


The initiative involves substantial investments in green technologies, including electrified equipment and renewable energy sources. Ports are major contributors to air pollution, primarily due to emissions from diesel-powered vehicles and equipment. By adopting cleaner technologies, the U.S. aims to cut down on the release of harmful pollutants.



Government and Industry Collaboration


The program calls for collaboration between federal agencies and industry stakeholders. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides guidelines for reducing emissions, offering ports technical assistance to implement sustainable practices. This partnership is crucial for developing innovative solutions tailored to specific port needs.



Impact on Local Communities


Local communities, often disproportionately affected by air pollution from ports, are expected to benefit from cleaner air and improved health outcomes. The initiative emphasizes the importance of involving community organizations to ensure that the changes address local concerns.



Monitoring and Accountability


To ensure accountability, the program includes measures for monitoring emissions reductions and evaluating the effectiveness of implemented technologies. This data-driven approach facilitates continuous improvement and demonstrates the benefits of federal investments in environmental sustainability.



Long-Term Environmental Goals


This federal funding aligns with broader environmental goals, including achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The U.S. government continues to prioritize policy changes that support these objectives and drive progress within the transportation and logistics sectors.