Overview

On a daily basis, more and more Arizonans are turning on their computers, charging their cell phones, and powering their iPods.  Coupled with traditional energy uses such as watching TV, washing clothes, and running the refrigerator, the oven and the dishwasher, the list of what we use electricity for continues to grow.

Although many products have become more energy efficient, our state’s overall energy mix remains dominated by coal, nuclear and natural gas.  Arizona’s Renewable Energy Standard of 15% by 2025 is beginning the shift to cleaner energy; however, Arizona does not have an Energy Efficiency Standard.

The good news is that, with Arizonans regularly hearing about the benefits of renewable energy and green buildings, public attention to these and related issues – such as energy efficiency – has increased.  With decision makers taking note, we have an opportunity to enact stronger policies by utilizing public interest and support to counter the influence of homebuilders and utilities who typically lobby for the status quo.

Energy efficiency is the quickest, cheapest, and cleanest way for Arizona to meet its growing energy needs.  Although the magnitude of the economic situation in Arizona and across the nation is daunting, energy efficiency offers an immediate, proven, and important step consumers and businesses can take to save money, stimulate the local economy through spending money saved into local goods and services, create jobs in weatherization and other services, and protect public health. 

Increasing energy efficiency to at least 20% by 2020 will help the state achieve Arizona PIRG’s Principles for the Electric System, which include the following:

1. Access to safe, reliable, affordable electricity service.  The goal of electricity regulation should be to provide adequate, reliable service to consumers at the lowest cost – including external costs such as public health, economic and social impacts.

2. Balance the long-term and short-term needs of consumers, as well as the interests of various classes of consumers.  Electricity rates should be designed to promote economically efficient and socially responsible outcomes – including energy efficiency, rate stability and the protection of low-income consumers.

3. Consumers should be assured that the public interest guides all decisions with regard to the electric system.  Market and regulatory barriers that deter the use of energy efficiency should be removed.  System planning must take place in the public sphere, include ample opportunities for broad public participation in decision-making and ensure that the views of small consumers are adequately represented in the process.

Energy efficiency costs less than other energy resources and can help alleviate some transmission and distribution need.  The Western Governors Association stated: "It is feasible to reduce electricity use 20% from projected levels in 2020, and do so cost effectively, through full deployment of best practice policies and programs.”  Smart investments coupled with mirroring successful aspects of Arizona’s Renewable Energy Standard, such as yearly ramp-ups, benchmarks, and evaluation, will ensure that energy efficiency is a sound investment for ratepayers.   

With a brown cloud all too often hanging over Phoenix, anticipated population growth in our state generating additional energy and water demands, high asthma and other respiratory illness rates attributed in part to current nonrenewable energy sources, energy efficiency is a clean and healthy solution for Arizona ratepayers.   

By increasing effective and energy efficiency requirements in Arizona to at least 20% by 2020, we will be on the way to an energy efficient Arizona.