Arizona Public Health Association Issues Arizona Corporation Commission Candidate Policy Brief

As AZPHA members you have received our series of earlier this year shedding light on the various ways the Arizona Corporation Commission can influence public health. As a refresher, our series covered the following topics:

• The AZ Corporation Commission & Public Health (Part I): Rubber Stamping Rate Increases & the Social Determinants of Health
• The AZ Corporation Commission & Public Health (Part II): How the Commission Disincentivizes Clean Energy
• The AZ Corp Commission & Public Health (Part III): Commission Rubber Stamps Southwest Gas Rate Increases
• The Arizona Corporation Commission & Public Health: Part IV – Air Quality
• The Arizona Corporation Commission & Public Health: Part V: ACC Election Important for Public Health
• Arizona Corporation Commission and Public Health Part VI: ACC Blows Huge Loophole in Utility Environmental Review Requirements

As the election approaches – AZPHA is following up with candidate education to make sure Candidates for the Commission understand our priorities. Below are our Policy Brief for candidates and letters that we’ll be sending them:

Public Health, Clean Energy, and Air Quality

The Arizona Public Health Association (AzPHA) is committed to advancing public health through sound policies and practices.

As candidates for the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) in 2024, it is imperative to grasp the public health implications of your decisions, particularly concerning utility rate increases and clean energy initiatives.

This policy brief outlines AzPHA’s priorities, focusing on the intersection of public health, clean energy, and air quality, and provides key questions to guide ACC decision-making.

Public Health Priorities

Affordable Energy

Importance: Ensuring utility rates remain affordable is vital for maintaining the health and well-being of Arizona residents. High energy costs lead to energy insecurity, forcing families to choose between utilities and other essentials such as food, healthcare, and medication. This financial strain disproportionately affects low-income households and can lead to adverse health outcomes.

Public Health Impact: Energy insecurity results in poor living conditions, increased stress, and negative health effects, especially in vulnerable populations.

Clean Energy Development

Importance: Transitioning to renewable energy sources is crucial for reducing pollution and combating climate change. Increased reliance on solar, wind, and other renewable energies can significantly decrease emissions of harmful pollutants such as carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and particulate matter.

Public Health Impact: Reduced emissions lead to improved air quality, which is directly linked to lower rates of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, clean energy promotes sustainable economic growth and job creation.

Energy Efficiency Programs

Importance: Energy efficiency is a cost-effective strategy to reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills. Programs that support home weatherization, energy-efficient appliances, and smart grid technologies can improve living conditions and enhance public health.

Public Health Impact: Energy efficiency initiatives alleviate financial burdens on households, leading to better overall health outcomes. Improved living conditions reduce the risk of health issues related to poor housing quality.

Transparency and Accountability

Importance: Transparent and accountable decision-making processes are essential in ensuring that rate increases are justified and necessary. Utilities must provide clear, comprehensive evidence to support their requests, allowing commissioners to make informed decisions that protect public interests.

Public Health Impact: Transparent processes build public trust and ensure that utility rate decisions do not place undue financial stress on consumers, thereby protecting their health and well-being.

Key Questions for ACC Commissioner Candidates to Ask Utilities

• • Justification for Rate Increases:

• • What specific factors are driving the need for a rate increase?
  • Can you provide detailed financial reports and projections that justify the proposed increase?

• • Impact on Low-Income Households:

• • How will the proposed rate increase affect low-income and vulnerable populations?
  • What measures are in place to mitigate any negative impacts on these groups, such as discounted rates or energy assistance programs?

• • Investment in Clean Energy:

• • How much of the proposed rate increase will be allocated to clean energy projects?
  • Can you demonstrate a commitment to transitioning to renewable energy sources and reducing reliance on fossil fuels?

• • Energy Efficiency Programs:

• • What plans do you have to expand energy efficiency programs?
  • How will these programs be funded, and what are the expected benefits for consumers in terms of cost savings and health improvements?

• • Accountability and Transparency:

• • How do you ensure transparency in your operations and decision-making processes?
  • Are there mechanisms in place for public input and oversight, and how do you address community concerns?

• • Long-Term Sustainability:

• • What steps are you taking to ensure the long-term sustainability of your energy infrastructure?
  • How are you planning to adapt to future energy demands and environmental regulations?

As candidates for the ACC commissioner positions, it is essential to prioritize public health in your decision-making process.

By focusing on affordable energy, clean energy development, energy efficiency, and transparent operations, you can make decisions that benefit all Arizonans. Asking critical questions and demanding clear evidence from utilities will help counter misinformation and ensure that rate increases are justified and necessary.

The AzPHA stands ready to support you with detailed analyses and resources to help you make informed decisions that promote a healthier and more sustainable Arizona.