Rep. Olson Pushes for Energy Reliability as Corporate Commission Tackles Net Zero Policies

By Jonathan Eberle |

The Arizona State Legislature is pushing forward a resolution aimed at guiding the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) to favor affordable and dependable energy sources over intermittent renewable options like solar and wind. This initiative is encapsulated in House Concurrent Memorial 2014 (HCM 2014), proposed by State Representative Justin Olson.

This legislation, while not legally binding, formally requests that the ACC resist the closure of dispatchable energy sources, such as natural gas and coal, in favor of achieving Net Zero goals. The emphasis is on maintaining a balanced energy portfolio that underscores affordability and reliability.

Key provisions of the bill include preventing the phase-out of critical energy sources in favor of renewable alternatives that may not consistently deliver, and advocating for a national policy entitled “Only Pay for What You Get.” This policy would mandate that utilities recover costs solely from the reliable part of any new energy generation.

On February 26, 2025, the Arizona House of Representatives passed the bill with a vote of 33-26-1, sending it to the Senate’s Natural Resources Committee for further deliberation. This action highlights the ongoing discussion surrounding Arizona’s energy strategy.

The ACC, which oversees the state’s investor-owned utilities, is facing heightened scrutiny from policymakers, industry groups, and environmental advocates seeking a balance among affordability, reliability, and sustainability. Proponents of HCM 2014 warn that a rapid shift to renewable energy without sufficient safeguards could inflate costs for consumers and jeopardize grid stability.

Should the Senate approve the resolution, HCM 2014 will be forwarded to the ACC’s Chairperson and each Commissioner, urging them to align their regulatory framework with the recommendations outlined in the bill. Although the ACC operates independently, the influence of the legislature could sway future regulatory decisions affecting Arizona’s energy landscape.

As discussions about energy sustainability in Arizona continue, the tension among legislative stakeholders, utility providers, and consumers is likely to persist.

Jonathan Eberle is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.