ACTION ALERT - Weigh in on AZ’s energy future

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From our friends at Arizona Interfaith Power and Light:

If you think Arizona should prioritize clean energy, now is the time to speak to the Arizona Corporation Commission!

For 20 years, Arizona utility companies have been intentional about incorporating renewables into our state energy profile because they have been required to. However, the ACC is currently looking to get rid of this requirement. So, we’re asking you to share your opinion on the matter, speak out against this proposal to repeal renewable energy standards, and show the ACC we're paying attention to how utilities are responding to the climate crisis. 

Below, you'll find background information, effective ways to take action, optional talking points with resources to learn more, and people you can reach out to for any questions.

Background: In 2006, the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) passed the Renewable Energy Standard and Tariff (REST) - a rule saying that 15% of retail energy sales from regulated electric utilities must come from renewable energy resources by 2025. Since its enactment, there have been significant investments in clean energy development, and Arizona’s environment and economy have been the beneficiaries of its success. Overall, Arizonans have been supportive of REST’s goals and outcomes.

SHOW UP AT AN OPEN MEETING (IN-PERSON OR ON THE PHONE)

Showing up to fill the space shows two things: there is strength in numbers, and AZIPL has the best volunteers ever. 

If you've been impacted by renewable energy investments, care about this subject, or simply feel concerned about Arizona’s future, we encourage you to testify during these open meetings. There are a couple things to note if you do so:

  1. You will need to to request to speak. You have from when the agenda is published until the meeting starts. First-timers will need to do this in-person.

  2. First come, first serve! Comments will be heard in their arrival order, so be sure to get there at least an hour early if you plan to speak.

  3. Comments are limited to three minutes, but prepare to only speak for two minutes.

Tell us if you plan to go, so we can connect you to other AZIPL friends.

Visit the ACC Docket and click on the "Case Schedule" tab for more event details.

Monday, Nov. 10, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
400 W. Congress Street, Room 222, Tucson, AZ 85701
OR CALL: 1 (877) 309-3457 Passcode 24601833204##

Wednesday, Nov. 12, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
TELEPHONE ONLY
1 (877) 309-3457 Passcode 24601833204##

Thursday, Nov. 13, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
1300 W Washington St, Hearing Room 1, Phoenix, AZ 85007
OR CALL: 1 (877) 309-3457 Passcode 801972877##

ALTERNATIVE ACTION: SUBMIT A COMMENT ONLINE

This one is fairly easy, but less visually impactful than a packed meeting room. 

Go to the ACC public comment portal, fill in the form using the information below, and submit your comment. Please be respectful!

  • Company Name: ACC - Electric Rules

  • Docket No. RE-00000A-24-0026

  • Mark “against” for your position on the Docket.

Optional Talking Points

You can use these to shape your comment, but the most impactful story you can tell is your own. How are you impacted? Why do you care?

Economic Impact:

  • REST has led to about $2 billion in benefits for the public and customers of Arizona Public Service (APS) and Tucson Electric Power (TEP), along with spurring nearly $12 billion in solar-industry investments. 

  • Renewable energy is the most cost-competitive form of energy.

Environmental Impact: 

  • REST has delivered a savings of 7,129-acre feet of water annually, enough water to serve the needs of nearly 44,000 Arizonans each year, and a 3% reduction in statewide greenhouse gas emissions. 

  • Extreme heat is a serious concern for Arizona. Where we get our energy from is a huge contributor.

Public Opinion: 

  • Thousands of public comments show overwhelming support to improve, not repeal, renewable energy rules and incentives.

  • Arizonans overwhelmingly believe expanding the state’s renewable energy portfolio is vital to supporting clean air and a healthier future, 70% of voters agree that policymakers need to do more to combat climate pollution, and 80% believe air pollution is a serious problem. 

Thanks for your voice and your commitment to Arizona's future!

Your friends at AZIPL