APS Faces Fresh Allegations of Discrimination Against Solar Customers

Arizona Public Service (APS), known for its past controversies and resistance to renewable energy, is facing criticism despite recent rebranding efforts. While APS claims to endorse clean energy and new leadership, its actions speak otherwise, particularly in undermining renewable energy initiatives.

Last year, APS opposed community solar adoption in Arizona. Community solar benefits those unable to install rooftop panels, such as renters or residents in multifamily housing, by allowing them to participate in clean energy and reduce electricity costs. However, the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) adopted a policy hindering community solar’s advancement, leaving these customers without a viable alternative.

The utility has also consistently pushed for annual decreases in the export rate paid to solar customers for surplus energy sold back to the grid. APS purchases this solar power at a discounted rate compared to the price it charges other customers. Legislation like HB2101, supported by APS, has further eliminated competition in Arizona’s electric sector, limiting options for solar customers.

Additionally, APS has advocated for higher fixed fees on solar customers. Nearly 200,000 APS customers with rooftop solar face a proposed 15% rate increase on their power bills compared to non-solar neighbors. Ongoing litigation at the ACC challenges this proposed fee, with APS recently arguing for the exclusion of 74,000 “Legacy Solar” customers from the hearing, depriving them of due process rights.

Earlier this year, APS was ordered by the ACC to develop a pilot program utilizing household batteries to offset energy needs during high demand. Rather than collaborate with the community, APS designed a program unlikely to succeed due to inadequate compensation for the resources obtained from customers.

Without accountability, APS will continue to penalize solar customers. The company’s nearly 200,000 solar customers need to actively engage with the ACC, demanding an end to APS’s discriminatory practices and support for solar energy’s growth.

Recently, the ACC ruled in favor of APS, allowing the exclusion of some solar customers from rate case rehearing. Additionally, the evidence APS provided to justify the discriminatory solar fees will not be evaluated, raising concerns about the rehearing’s validity. Public support for solar energy is crucial, and comments referencing Docket No. E-01345A-22-0144 can be filed with the ACC.

Autumn Johnson, executive director of the Arizona Solar Energy Industries Association, emphasizes the importance of holding APS accountable to prevent further needless attacks on solar customers.