Arizona Public Service Co. has been approved to increase the average monthly bill for residential customers by $10 to $12, with an additional $2.50 to $3 fee for those with rooftop solar systems. The decision by the Arizona Corporation Commission has sparked criticism, with requests for reconsideration and calls for utility executives to provide sworn testimony on the projected impact of the rate hike. The rate increase is aimed at recouping infrastructure expansion expenses and ensuring reliable service, but critics argue that it unfairly targets solar customers and lacks comprehensive data analysis.
The Arizona Corporation Commission has approved a requested 8% rate hike for APS, which could result in a $10-12 increase per month for typical residential customers. This decision follows a surge in demand for electricity last year, leading to a 22% increase in third-quarter profit for Pinnacle West Capital Corp., the owner of APS. The rate adjustment aims to support infrastructure upgrades and provide reliable energy, with increased assistance for vulnerable customers included in the plan.
The Arizona Corporation Commission has approved the expansion of a natural gas plant near Coolidge in Pinal County, after a year of opposition from residents. The Salt River Project (SRP) reached a compromise with the residents of Randolph, which allowed the expansion to move forward. The newly approved expansion adds 12 new generator units instead of the original 16, and moves units farther away from homes. SRP also agreed to give Randolph residents more than $23 million to make their community better.
