Environment Arizona Research & Policy Center calls for continued action on renewables

PHOENIX — Just over a week after Arizona’s largest electric utility set a voluntary goal of providing 45 percent renewable electricity by 2030 and 100 percent carbon-free electricity by 2050, Environment Arizona Research & Policy Center is launching its 2020 campaign to require 100 percent clean energy in Arizona. The statewide environmental organization is calling on the Arizona Corporation Commission to establish statewide commitments to a renewable and clean energy future.

“For decades now, our fossil fuel energy system has been threatening the health of Arizonans and destabilizing our climate,” said Emma Searson, 100% Renewable Campaign Director with Environment Arizona Research & Policy Center. “We know that tapping into abundant renewable energy from the sun and wind is a far better path forward for Arizona. The first step is for Arizona to increase the standard for renewables and commit to a future powered fully by clean energy.”

The organization is calling on the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC), which regulates utilities in the state, to increase its Renewable Energy Standard & Tariff to 50 percent renewable energy by 2030, up from its current requirement of 15 percent renewable by 2025. Environment Arizona Research & Policy Center has also joined a set of over 24 diverse groups in calling for an additional standard of 100 percent clean, zero-emission energy by 2045.

“Solar energy is more affordable than ever and Arizona’s biggest electric utility just made a landmark 100% carbon-free commitment, now it’s time for the state to act,” said Art Terrazas, Interior West Director for Vote Solar. “We’re excited to work with the Environment Arizona Research Policy Center and others to help make a 100% carbon-free energy future that ensures that all Arizonans see the benefits of cleaner air, water and a healthier planet. Arizona Corporation Commission: it’s your turn to lead.” 

Environment Arizona Research & Policy Center’s effort is part of a national trend. Six states have already enacted laws requiring 100 percent clean electricity by 2050 or sooner, and the national Environment America network launched 2020 campaigns in 15 states, including Arizona. 

“With renewable and clean energy policies and commitments already sweeping across America and Arizona, we have a golden opportunity to continue moving the ball forward,” said Searson. “Committing to a healthier future powered by clean, renewable energy should be a no-brainer, and we look forward to working with the ACC to make sure Arizona is next to adopt strong standards.”

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Environment Arizona Research & Policy Center works for clean air, clean water, clean energy, wildlife and open spaces, and a livable climate. Environment Arizona Research & Policy Center is part of Environment America Research & Policy Center, a national network of 29 state environmental groups.

Vote Solar is a non-profit organization that has been working to make solar affordable and accessible to more Americans. Vote Solar works at the state level all across the country to support the policies and programs needed to repower our grid with clean energy. For more information, visit www.votesolar.org.