Phoenix, Ariz. – On February 7, 2025, Vice Chair Nick Myers and Commissioner René Lopez opened the docket, In the Matter of the Commission 's Inquiry into Nuclear Issues (Docket No. E.00000A-25-0026).  This will begin the ACC’s exploration into the possibility of new nuclear generation development in Arizona, including small modular reactors (SMRs).

Earlier this month, Arizona Public Service (APS), Tucson Electric Power (TEP), and Salt River Project (SRP) announced their application for a federal grant from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to help them identify locations in the state for placing new nuclear generation, including at the sites of retiring coal plants.  “Arizona’s future energy demands will require innovative and diverse solutions,” said Commissioner René Lopez.  “I applaud Arizona’s utilities’ diverse outlook and for now taking exploratory steps toward nuclear generation and am excited at the prospect of expanding Arizona’s energy portfolio.”

A workshop on nuclear issues will be scheduled in the next couple of months to hear from our regulated electric utilities, subject matter experts, and other stakeholders. 

"Nuclear energy has been the backbone of the Arizona electric grid since the 1980s,” said Vice Chair Nick Myers. “I’m glad to see Arizona electric utilities are exploring the possibility of additional nuclear generation in our state and options to replace our retiring coal plants. The active exploration of new nuclear generation by our utilities is a big step for Arizona and I look forward to the benefits this will undoubtedly bring to our great state."