Phoenix, Ariz. — The Arizona Corporation Commissioners voted on 11 matters, including electric and water utilities items. Highlights from the meeting include:

Trico's Renewable Energy Tarriff Approved

Trico's Experimental RRR Tariff is a pilot initiative allowing members to opt for 50% or 100% renewable energy coverage for their electricity needs. Participants will incur an additional cost of $0.01 per kWh on the renewable portion of their consumption. This program is particularly beneficial for members who cannot lease or installing rooftop solar panels. Currently, Trico provides about 33% renewable energy to its members; this program targets energy consumption beyond this baseline. Importantly, Trico ensures that non-participating members will not face any cost increase due to this experimental tariff.

All documents relating to the administrative case can be found in the Corporation Commission's online docket at edocket.azcc.gov and entering docket number E-01461A-23-0150

Rate Increase Implemented for Sahuarita Water Company

The Sahuarita Water Company requested a Central Arizona Groundwater Replenishment District (CAGRD) rate of $2.37 per kgal. After a thorough review of the Company's calculations and supporting documentation, the Commission concluded that the proposed rate is justified. The proposed CAGRD rate of $2.37 per kgal represents an increase of $0.25 from the current rate of $2.12 per kgal. The Commission orders that the new CAGRD adjustor fee of $2.37 per kgal shall become effective for all customer billings for water sold after December 1, 2023.

All documents relating to the administrative case can be found in the Corporation Commission's online docket at edocket.azcc.gov and entering docket number W-03718A-09-0359

Commission Rejects Take Charge AZ Program Portion of the APS 2023 Transportation Electrification Plan

The Commission has voted to deny Arizona Public Service (APS) 2023 Take Charge AZ program and the program’s $5 million budget. This decision ensures that new funds allocated for this plan will not be expended, prioritizing the protection of ratepayer money.  Any projects currently underway will be completed.

All documents relating to the administrative case can be found in the Corporation Commission's online docket at edocket.azcc.gov and entering docket number E-01345A-22-0067

A Year in Review: Advances and Achievements of the Arizona Corporation Commission

Under the leadership of Chairman Jim O'Connor, the Arizona Corporation Commission has made significant strides in modernizing and enhancing its operations.

The Commission successfully adjudicated 292 cases, with 243 of them reaching unanimous decisions. Key achievements include the appointment of a new Executive Director, Doug Clark, and the adoption of Robert's Rules of Order for open meetings, which have streamlined and formalized Commission proceedings.

Efforts to improve rail safety and corporation registration processes were also initiated. The Commission reaffirmed its policies on rate cases and line siting, alongside refreshing its line siting committee. Notably, the Commission issued rate decisions for nearly all Class A utilities and approved substantial energy projects, totaling approximately 1,610 MW of solar energy, 323 MW of wind energy, 1,655 MW of battery storage, and 845 MW of gas-fired power.

Additionally, 60 miles of interconnections were approved, alongside consolidations of small water companies. The Commission secured $40 million in restitution and conducted five workshops on critical topics like cybersecurity and winter preparedness. It also resolved major pending litigation and initiated reliable water service to the Rio Verde Foothills Community, marking a period of significant progress and development.