Phoenix, Ariz. – As Arizona utilities continue to set new record highs for peak energy demand, the Arizona Corporation Commission prioritizes the reliability and stability of our electricity grid – approving new generation and infrastructure projects to ensure our utilities continue to meet the ever-increasing electricity demand. Arizona Public Service Company (APS) and Salt River Project (SRP) both set new records for peak electricity demand on Wednesday, July 9, 2025 between 5 and 6 p.m.  The high temperature in Phoenix on July 9 was 118 degrees.  “Hitting a new record peak demand for a third year in a row is a big deal and a prime example of the complicated balancing act the Commission and our utilities engage in daily to keep the lights and air conditioners on,” said Chair Kevin Thompson. “The fact that a majority of Arizonan’s experienced a day the same as any other is a testament to our utility employees and their dedication to grid reliability and resiliency in the most extreme conditions.  We take pride in the fact that Arizonans can depend on uninterrupted energy service during extreme heat conditions.” 

Company                  Highest Peak Demand to Date in 2025             Record High in 2024

APS                              8,527 Megawatts (MW) on July 9, 2025              8,212 MW

SRP                              8,324 MW on July 9, 2025                                     8,205 MW

“Arizona’s growing peak demand highlights the importance of planning and accountability from our utilities,” said Vice Chair Nick Myers. “These new peak demand records are a clear signal that we must stay ahead of the curve—both in expanding reliable generation and in encouraging reduced energy use during peak hours. Through the Commission’s evaluation of utility Integrated Resource Plans and our annual summer preparedness workshops, the ACC remains focused on ensuring Arizona’s grid remains reliable and resilient during our relentless summer heat.” 

During the Arizona Corporation Commission’s 2025 Summer Preparedness Workshop, the state’s two largest utilities assured the Commission that they are prepared to produce a combined total of more than 24,000 MW of electricity to meet customers’ daily summer demands.

Company               # Customers                Capacity                  2025 Peak Forecast    

APS                           1.4 million                       10,111 MW                   8,491 MW     

SRP                           1.1 million                        9,810 MW                  8,436 MW

"I appreciate all that our utilities do to be prepared for our extreme weather conditions, especially the workers in the field who are checking lines and connections to make sure our AC's will keep running through the intense heat,” said Commissioner Rachel Walden.

Arizona ranks 7^th in the nation for states having the most reliable power grid, according to reports from U.S. News & World Report and Climate Central, a nonprofit research and communications group.   In a state that has more than 100 days of 100-plus degree temperatures and millions of people running air conditioners nonstop, this ranking is impressive and important.  The Commission encourages Arizonans to be mindful and help reduce electric demand during peak hours.  Actions, such as lowering energy use during peak hours and signing up for demand response programs can contribute to reducing overall customer demand and reducing monthly electric bills.

“Arizona continues to have one of the most reliable electric grids in the country,” said Commissioner Lea Márquez Peterson. “Residents across the state depend on the preparation by our regulated utilities to ensure that they can keep cool during the hottest time of the year. Our work at the ACC balancing capital investment and the affordability of rates is important in ensuring that residents are protected and our utilities are prepared as energy demand peaks.”