News Release

Commissioner Justin Olson Urges Commissioners to Reconsider SRP Decision

Phoenix— At the April Regular Open Meeting the Corporation Commission denied Salt River Project’s (“SRP”) application to expand its natural gas Coolidge Generating Station in Pinal County. The Arizona Power Plant and Transmission Line Siting Committee had initially approved the application by a vote of 7-2.

“I’m concerned how the Commission’s denial of SRP’s application will impact ratepayers. I’m concerned how it will impact reliability. I’m concerned about Arizonans not being able to use their air conditioning during the hot summer months,” said Commissioner Olson.

Olson further explains, “If the Commission is going to eliminate any expansion of natural gas generation, utilities will not be able to meet the energy demands of their customers. We have seen this failed policy played out in California, where they have struggled to meet demand, resulting in rolling blackouts. We cannot risk having that happen here in Arizona.”

Commissioner Olson urges his fellow Commissioners to reconsider this decision which jeopardizes SRP’s ability to meet its customers’ energy needs, especially during the hot summer months. 

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