News Summary
The Arizona Corporation Commission is considering repealing the Renewable Energy Standard and Tariff (REST) rules, which require utility companies to generate 15% of their energy from renewable sources by 2025. While some argue that the renewable sector has become self-sufficient, environmentalists fear that this repeal could hinder future renewable initiatives. Public comment sessions are scheduled for stakeholders to share their opinions, with concerns about job opportunities and environmental impacts being highlighted.
Arizona – The Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) is moving forward with its plans to repeal the Renewable Energy Standard and Tariff (REST) rules established in 2006, which mandate that utility companies generate at least 15% of their energy from renewable sources by 2025. This decision comes as the ACC evaluates the current state of the renewable energy market and its potential implications for consumers and the environment.
ACC Vice Chair Nick Myers has indicated that the repeal of REST is not necessary, suggesting that the renewable energy sector has reached a level of self-sufficiency. Major utility companies, including Arizona Public Service Company (APS) and Tucson Electric Power Company (TEP), have already exceeded the 15% renewable energy requirement, reflecting a significant shift in the industry.
Some environmental advocates, including the Sierra Club Grand Canyon Chapter Director, express concern that if the mandate is removed, the development of renewable energy initiatives could decline. Arizona currently ranks fourth in the United States for solar electricity generation, trailing only California, Texas, and Florida. Advocates assert that renewable energy has benefits beyond just environmental gains, noting that it typically requires less water than conventional energy sources such as coal, nuclear, and natural gas.
ACC Chair Kevin Thompson has countered claims that repealing the REST rules will adversely affect the growth of renewable energy, describing those concerns as “silly.” The Commission has planned three public comment sessions where stakeholders can express their opinions on the potential repeal: November 10 in Tucson, November 12 by phone, and November 13 in Phoenix. Additionally, written comments can be submitted on the ACC’s website until November 14.
Earlier in the summer, a piece of legislation known as the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ was passed, which rolled back several clean energy incentives, including tax credits for renewable energy projects. A recent third-party analysis requested by the ACC indicated that repealing REST could lead to slight reductions in residential electric bills and offer minimal administrative savings for utility companies.
Specific solar facilities, such as the Solana Generating Station, have been identified by the ACC as contributors to consumer costs, with power purchased at rates significantly higher than the average price. Despite these claims, supporters of REST highlight the substantial investments resulting from the standard, totaling $12 billion, and a reported 3% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions linked to these regulations.
The Sierra Club also points to the economic benefits associated with REST, including $2 billion in public gains from reduced reliance on coal and natural gas, local business investments, a decrease in technology costs, and enhanced air quality. Some advocates worry that rolling back these protections could jeopardize job opportunities in the renewable energy sector and negatively impact Arizona’s environmental health.
As discussions surrounding the repeal of REST continue, the ACC is carefully considering the long-term consequences of rescinding these rules, emphasizing the need to treat all forms of power generation equally. The final decision to repeal must be formally filed by September 19, following the ACC’s unanimous vote to initiate the repeal process.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- KTAR News
- Axios Phoenix
- Arizona Digital Free Press
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Renewable Energy
- Arizona Commerce Authority
- Google News: Renewable Energy Arizona
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
