Arizona Corporation Commission Prepares for Critical Utility Rate Hearings Amid Scheduling Challenges

Overview: The Arizona Corporation Commission convened to address procedural issues tied to upcoming hearings concerning rate adjustments for Santa Cruz Water Company Inc. and Global Water Palo Verde Utilities Company Inc. The meeting, presided over by Administrative Law Judge Chris Nichols, emphasized the importance of organizing witness testimonies and finalizing schedules to ensure a smooth process ahead of the December 15 hearing.

Scottsdale City Council Expands Financial Review to 10 Years Amid Pandemic Concerns

Overview: During a recent Scottsdale City Council meeting, the primary focus centered on extending the financial review period to ten years. This decision was driven by the shifts in city finances due to the pandemic, with a consensus that a longer review period would provide a clearer picture of revenues and expenditures. A motion was proposed to adopt this recommendation, emphasizing the availability of existing data, with preparations for a presentation on December 18 already underway. This motion carried with no opposition.

Arizona Corporation Commission Considers Pipeline Safety Rule Changes, Withdraws Key Amendment

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Arizona Corporation Commission addressed proposed amendments to pipeline safety regulations, focusing on incorporating federal updates and withdrawing a significant amendment regarding incident reporting. The meeting, led by an administrative law judge, involved presentations and discussions with staff members and concluded without public comments.

Arizona Corporation Commission Faces Backlash Over Proposed Repeal of Energy Efficiency Standards

Overview: The Arizona Corporation Commission meeting was dominated by a debate over the proposed repeal of energy efficiency standards, with numerous stakeholders expressing strong opposition. These standards, which are part of Article 24 of Title 14, Chapter 2 of the Arizona Administrative Code, have been integral in guiding utilities to achieve significant energy savings. The proposed repeal seeks to offer utilities more flexibility in implementing energy efficiency programs, but many fear it will undermine environmental and consumer protections.

Arizona Corporation Commission Faces Backlash Over Proposed Repeal of Energy Efficiency Rules

Overview: The Arizona Corporation Commission’s recent meeting became a platform for public opposition to the proposed repeal of the electric energy efficiency standards. The hearing, led by Administrative Law Judge Chris Nichols, centered on discussions about dismantling rules that have guided energy savings programs since 2010. Public comment highlighted the potential negative impacts on environmental health, economic savings, and job creation.