Utility regulators should adopt Tobin’s energy plan

It should be one of the biggest news stories in Arizona: Regulators are about to make a huge decision that will shape how much you pay for electricity, and where that electricity will come from for the next 15 years. Electricity costs — and the policy behind how power is generated and delivered — are the foundation of our state’s economy and quality of life.

Arizona’s Corporation Commission has an opportunity to set in place an environmentally and economically friendly proposal that would consider Arizona’s unique and growing environment.

It is a comprehensive plan developed by Commissioner Andy Tobin, a wellknown state leader who has been a strong advocate for Arizona businesses. Commissioner Tobin has worked over the past year to engage environmental groups, business leaders and energy experts to develop a long-term solution to Arizona’s energy production and storage. It’s the plan that best fits Arizona’s values.

His plan would, by 2050, have Arizona get 80 percent of its energy from a combination of sources — solar, biofuel, and nuclear. It calls for investment in increasing energy efficiency, the least expensive way to meet our energy needs, and advancing new technologies such as battery storage to help manage electricity demand, making the electric grid more reliable, flexible and inexpensive.

As a conservative, I believe in a practical approach to energy. To conserve is conservative — the cheapest power plant is the one we do not have to build. Arizona needs an “all of the above” energy policy, with an emphasis on controlling costs, saving ratepayers money, managing demand, reducing waste, creating jobs and helping businesses.

We need energy diversity and innovation, with an emphasis on solar and storage, so that we can reduce our dependence on other states and countries. Many emerging technologies can cost less than traditional generation, drive new markets and jobs, and save ratepayers money.

Commissioner Tobin should be congratulated for putting forward an innovative vision that embraces this modern conservative approach. He worked collaboratively with state and local community leaders, business owners, and energy experts to develop an Arizonabased plan that is a win for both the short and the long term.

More immediately, ratepayers would not have to spend as much building costly new power plants. Over the decades, Arizona would transition to sources of energy that cost less — and are continuing to go down in price — resulting in even more savings.

I hope the Arizona Corporation Commissioners support Tobin’s plan. Moreover, they should ensure his vision is realized in a timely manner. Commissioners should get feedback from ratepayers via the Notice of Inquiry as soon as possible, so they can move forward with rulemaking.

During the Integrated Resource Plan process, the commissioners should adopt concrete steps, including an action plan, to chart a course forward that’s consistent with Tobin’s vision.

Energy policy is critical for the future of our great state.

Therefore, the Arizona Corporation Commission should continue to move forward with and embrace Tobin’s sensible approach.