APS Discloses 15-Year Agenda to Tackle Rising Energy Consumption
PHOENIX — Arizona Public Service (APS) has taken a significant step forward in addressing the state’s burgeoning energy demands by filing a comprehensive new plan with the Arizona Corporation Commission. This strategic initiative, known as the 2023 APS Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), is a forward-looking blueprint designed to ensure the provision of reliable power to APS customers amidst Arizona’s rapid population and business growth.
The IRP offers a detailed 15-year forecast, outlining the anticipated electricity needs of APS customers and identifying the necessary investments to meet these demands. This plan is particularly crucial given the state’s unprecedented growth and the unique energy challenges posed by Arizona’s intense summer heat.
In developing this robust plan, APS engaged with a wide array of stakeholders through the Resource Planning Advisory Council (RPAC). This council, comprising consumer advocates, university researchers, resource developers, and representatives from environmental and public interest organizations, has been instrumental in fostering a transparent and inclusive planning process. Over the past year, RPAC meetings have facilitated extensive dialogue and incorporated diverse perspectives, ensuring a well-rounded approach to resource planning.
Jacob Tetlow, APS Executive Vice President of Operations, emphasized the importance of this initiative in a recent press release. “Arizona is experiencing rapid growth, and the demand for reliable power is more critical than ever, especially considering the challenges of our summers. It’s essential that we plan meticulously for the future,” he stated. Tetlow also highlighted the collaborative efforts of the APS team and various stakeholders in crafting the 2023 IRP, which aims to maintain APS’s commitment to top-tier reliability and affordable rates for its customers in the years ahead.
The 2023 IRP represents a strategic effort by APS to not only address current energy requirements but also to anticipate future needs. This plan is a testament to APS’s dedication to evolving and adapting its operations to ensure that Arizona’s energy future is secure, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of its growing population and economy.
