Arizona Families Deserve a Say on Electricity Costs
Across Arizona, people are starting to ask the same question: how much more can we really afford to pay? From Tucson neighborhoods to Phoenix suburbs, families are already stretched thin by the rising costs of housing, food, and healthcare. Now, electricity bills are climbing too.
This summer, Arizona Public Service (APS) and Tucson Electric Power (TEP) both filed requests with the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) to raise rates by about 14 percent. If approved, the average household could end up paying an extra $200 to $240 a year. For many families, that is not a small change. It is money that could cover groceries, gas, or other essentials.
So what exactly is a “rate case”? In short, it is the process where a utility asks state regulators for permission to raise or adjust prices. Utilities bring their proposal to the ACC, which is made up of five elected commissioners. The commissioners hold hearings, gather public input, and eventually decide whether to approve, adjust, or reject the request.
APS and TEP argue the increases are needed to keep up with grid investments and energy goals. But their parent companies are already earning significant profits. Pinnacle West, which owns APS, reported more than $600 million in profits last year. Fortis, which owns TEP, reported over $1.6 billion.
On top of that, both utilities are also asking for something new: “formula rates.” This would allow them to increase rates every year automatically, instead of through the traditional rate case process. In practice, that means less public review, fewer chances for everyday people to weigh in, and more control in the hands of the utilities.
Meanwhile, families across Arizona face a more urgent problem. In our desert climate, air conditioning is not optional–it’s a lifeline. Many households already struggle with “energy insecurity,” having to choose between paying for electricity or other basic needs. A steep increase in bills would only make that harder.
And it’s not just about bills.These cases will also influence Arizona’s energy future. The ACC is weighing changes to clean energy and efficiency standards, decisions that could either push utilities toward more affordable, sustainable options or keep us tied to old approaches.
The important thing to know is that these cases are not decided yet. Public input really does matte. Regulators are required to listen to and consider comments before making their decisions.
Here’s what you can do:
Speak up: The ACC has to take public comments, and your story carries weight. If higher bills would hurt your family, share your story. Here are the case numbers so your comment gets filed correctly
- APS: E-01345A-25-0105
- TEP: E-01933A-25-0103
Join a public comment session: Starting in early 2026, the ACC will host opportunities both in person and over the phone. It’s one of the few chances to speak directly to decision-makers.
Spread the word: Talk to your neighbors, post on social media, mention it to your family. The more people know, the harder it is for utilities to raise rates quietly.
At Vote Solar, we believe Arizona’s energy system should work for people, not just for company profits. That means affordable bills, more accountability, and real opportunities for communities to have a say in shaping our energy future.
These rate cases are a turning point. Regulators must decide whether to side with utilities or with the families and small businesses who depend on affordable, reliable service.
If enough of us speak up, we can make sure the public’s voice is heard.