Lea Márquez Peterson
Commissioner

PHOENIX, Ariz. – As Arizona experiences a 10-day forecast of severe heat warnings, Corporation Commissioner Lea Márquez Peterson urges Arizonans to remember that regulated electric utilities are forbidden from disconnecting customers due to late payment, non-payment, or accumulated debt during extreme weather conditions.

Currently, regulated utilities like Arizona Public Service Company, Tucson Electric Power Company, and UNS Electric, Inc. must decide whether to suspend disconnections from June 1 to October 15, or if the forecasted temperature exceeds 95-degrees Fahrenheit. With Valley temperatures predicted to breach a scorching 115-degrees, customers concerned about disconnection should reach out to their electricity providers to understand the disconnection policy in effect.

Commissioner Márquez Peterson emphasizes the importance of reaching out for assistance if needed. She states, “In these extreme weather conditions, the safety and well-being of every Arizonan is my foremost concern. As we navigate this heatwave together, I urge customers facing difficulties with their bills to contact their service providers. Various assistance programs are available to those who qualify.”

Extreme heat spikes residential energy consumption, leading to higher energy bills. The increase in air conditioning usage and the associated high demand for cooling are substantial factors in overall utility costs. The Commission invites all Arizonans to take advantage of energy efficiency programs offered by their electricity providers and to practice voluntary energy conservation measures where feasible. Every bit of energy conservation makes a difference.

Here are some practical tips to reduce energy consumption during Arizona's sweltering summer months:

• Keep curtains and blinds closed
• Utilize fans for cooling
• Limit use of high‐energy appliances during peak hours
• Switch off lights and unplug appliances when not in use
• Regularly change HVAC filters, per the manufacturer's recommendations
• If possible, invest in smart thermostats and energy‐efficient appliances 

For immediate relief, the Arizona Department of Health Services offers a map of cooling centers available throughout the state. Find the closest one to you here: Arizona Cooling Centers Map

Moreover, the Arizona Emergency Network has compiled a comprehensive list of recommendations for coping with extreme heat. See more at: Arizona Emergency Network Extreme Heat Guide

Commissioner Márquez Peterson urges all Arizonans to remain cool, stay safe, and strive to voluntarily reduce energy consumption as the heatwave continues.