Gov. Katie Hobbs signed an executive order aimed at tackling rising energy costs by speeding up the development of new power projects in Arizona. The order directs state agencies to find federal funding for solar, wind, nuclear, and geothermal projects while taking advantage of federal tax credits that are set to expire. Agencies must also develop plans to cut their own energy use by 5% by 2027. Hobbs instructed the State Land Department and Department of Transportation to streamline approvals for land leases and transmission line placement, while a new task force will explore advanced technologies like geothermal and small modular nuclear reactors.
At the same time, Attorney General Kris Mayes announced she will formally oppose Arizona Public Service’s proposal to raise rates by 14% next year. Mayes, a former member of the Arizona Corporation Commission, argued APS is exploiting its monopoly after earning more than $600 million in profits last year. The commission has allowed several advocacy groups, including Vote Solar and Wildfire, to intervene in the case. APS counters that its rates still lag behind the true costs of maintaining a reliable energy grid, despite a rate hike approved just last year.
