By Frank Andorka, Senior Correspondent
As the battle rages in Arizona over the future of the renewable portfolio standard (RPS), which currently stands at just 15% by 2025, the pro-solar forces aiming to raise that by 35% gained a staunch ally yesterday as the Arizona Solar Energy Industries Association (AriSEIA) has announced its support for Proposition 127, which would increase the amount of Arizona’s power that comes from renewable sources to 50 percent by 2030.
Proposition 127 has been the subject of great contention within the state. Proposed by California progressive billionaire Tom Steyer, the proposition received more than the necessary number of signatures to be placed on the November ballot for voters to weigh in on the issue. But it has run into significant opposition from the usual suspects, including Arizona Public Service, the state’s largest utility.
After fending off one lawsuit and several political action committees later, the proposition is moving forward and will be before voters in two months.
The association is urging a “yes” vote on the proposition, which will be included on ballots for the November 6 election. A victory for this proposition will expand the solar and renewable energy industries in Arizona, leading to more job creation, a cleaner environment, and better public health across the state.
“There is vast, untapped potential in solar and other renewable energies, and all Arizonans will benefit from increasing our reliance on these sustainable resources,” said Brandon Cheshire, AriSEIA president. “We believe Proposition 127 is a critical step in the right direction,” Cheshire said. “It’s a step toward more jobs for Arizonans, cleaner air for our children and future generations, and a more resilient power grid for all of us.”
A recent report from the Natural Resources Defense Council found that a 50 percent renewable portfolio standard would translate to $4 billion in savings for Arizona.
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“In addition, the investment in renewables and storage will create jobs in the state, and produce environmental benefits: lowering annual carbon dioxide emissions in 2030 by 4.6 million tons, equivalent to the annual emissions from 900,000 passenger cars,” the report states.
Though Arizona sees 300 days of sunshine each year, utilities currently get just 6% of their power from solar energy.
AriSEIA is the largest solar industry trade association in the state of Arizona.