Arizona Task Force Encourages an Affordable Clean Energy Future
Governor Katie Hobbs’ Arizona Energy Promise Taskforce (AEPT) presented a vision for the future of affordable and reliable energy in the state, calling for accelerated deployment of new energy resources, including distributed solar and virtual power plants. The report includes recommendations provided by stakeholder organizations, including Vote Solar, that position the state as a leader in advancing clean energy solutions to address growing energy demand and rising energy costs. By highlighting the role of distributed energy resources (DER) the Taskforce report offers solutions to meet growing energy needs while helping families lower their energy bills and strengthening the energy grid.
Vote Solar’s West Senior Regulatory Director, Kate Bowman, issued the following statement:
“Distributed energy resources like solar are the fastest and most affordable solutions readily available to address rising energy costs and growing energy demand in Arizona. Investing in resources like virtual power plants, energy efficiency, distributed solar, and battery storage will allow Arizona to deliver reliable power quickly while relieving families from high energy bills.
“We look forward to working with Governor Hobbs and state leaders to advance practical energy solutions that make the state’s electricity system more affordable, reliable, and resilient for families across Arizona.”
Vote Solar’s West Regional Director, Itzel Rios-Vega, issued the following statement:
“Arizona families and businesses are feeling the strain of rising energy costs, and affordability must remain at the center of the state’s energy decisions. By investing in smart, affordable clean energy solutions like solar, Arizona can reduce energy bills today while planning for a more stable and affordable clean energy future.
“With federal clean energy investments facing growing uncertainty, state leadership is more important than ever. We applaud the Governor for fighting to restore $156 million in Solar For All funding, a critical investment that will ensure the benefits of clean, affordable solar energy reach the families and communities that need it most.
“We are glad that the AEPT reflected several priorities we raised, including our recommendations that clean, distributed energy resources strengthen the grid, reduce the need for costly new infrastructure, and avoid locking Arizona families into decades of dependence on expensive fossil fuel resources.
“We are committed to working with state leaders to ensure that Arizona continues to advance solutions that put communities first and provide meaningful relief from high energy bills across the state.”