States, Cities and Counties
Here's a look at documents covering state government, cities and counties
Featured Stories
Wash. State Ecology Dept.: Washington, California and Quebec Take the Next Step Towards Linking Carbon Markets by Releasing Draft Agreement
OLYMPIA, Washington, March 5 -- The Washington State Department of Ecology issued the following news release on March 3, 2026:
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Washington, California and Quebec take the next step towards linking carbon markets by releasing draft agreement
Governor Ferguson, Ecology Director Sixkiller issue statements about the significance of this milestone
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Today Washington, California and Quebec released a draft linkage agreement (https://apps.ecology.wa.gov/publications/summarypages/2614018.html) for public review, the next step in the ongoing effort to form a shared carbon market between the three
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OLYMPIA, Washington, March 5 -- The Washington State Department of Ecology issued the following news release on March 3, 2026:
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Washington, California and Quebec take the next step towards linking carbon markets by releasing draft agreement
Governor Ferguson, Ecology Director Sixkiller issue statements about the significance of this milestone
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Today Washington, California and Quebec released a draft linkage agreement (https://apps.ecology.wa.gov/publications/summarypages/2614018.html) for public review, the next step in the ongoing effort to form a shared carbon market between the threejurisdictions. A shared market would reduce greenhouse gases more efficiently by driving long-term, cost-effective investment in decarbonization.
Governor Bob Ferguson offered this statement on the significance of this milestone:
"No state or province can handle the climate crisis alone. Working together will lead to greater progress in reducing emissions, as well as more predictability for businesses as they invest in clean energy and develop their own strategies for a cleaner future. Washington will continue to be a leader in the fight to protect our shared environment."
Washington Department of Ecology Director Casey Sixkiller issued the following statement:
"From historic flooding and drought to extreme heat and devastating wildfires, climate change is impacting communities across our state and threatening our natural resources. By linking Washington's carbon market with California and Quebec, we are expanding a proven, market-based system to cut greenhouse gas emissions, accelerate decarbonization, spur innovation, create jobs, and deliver sustained investments in communities and climate solutions. Together, we are demonstrating that states and provinces can meet this moment through bold leadership and sustained collaboration."
A linkage agreement is one of several steps necessary to link, and the public may provide feedback on the draft agreement through May 1, 2026. Depending on when other steps are completed, we could begin operating a linked market in 2027.
To learn more about Washington's path towards linkage, visit our linkage webpage (https://ecology.wa.gov/air-climate/climate-commitment-act/cap-and-invest/linkage).
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Original text here: https://ecology.wa.gov/about-us/who-we-are/news/2026/march-3-washington-california-and-quebec-take-the-next-step-towards-linking-carbon-markets-by-rel
N.H. Banking Commissioner Galdieri Joins New Hampshire Bankers Association for Capitol Day
CONCORD, New Hampshire, March 5 -- The New Hampshire Banking Department issued the following news release on March 4, 2026:
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Commissioner Galdieri joins New Hampshire Bankers Association for Capitol Day
The New Hampshire Bankers Association held its annual "Capitol Day" event on March 3 at the State House. The meeting provides members of the banking industry with an up-close view of the legislative process. Participants hear directly from legislative leadership about their priorities, learn more about the process and issues happening at the State House and can also ask questions.
New Hampshire
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CONCORD, New Hampshire, March 5 -- The New Hampshire Banking Department issued the following news release on March 4, 2026:
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Commissioner Galdieri joins New Hampshire Bankers Association for Capitol Day
The New Hampshire Bankers Association held its annual "Capitol Day" event on March 3 at the State House. The meeting provides members of the banking industry with an up-close view of the legislative process. Participants hear directly from legislative leadership about their priorities, learn more about the process and issues happening at the State House and can also ask questions.
New HampshireBanking Department Commissioner Emela A.S. Galdieri spoke to the participants, giving an overview of the Department and discussing ongoing goals within the agency.
"It was a pleasure to join the New Hampshire Bankers Association for Capitol Day 2026. This program gives emerging leaders in our banking community an invaluable opportunity to see firsthand how policy is shaped and how their voices contribute to the process," Galdieri said. "I appreciated the chance to share an overview of the Banking Department's work and our current priorities, and I look forward to continued collaboration with industry partners to support a strong, resilient financial system for all Granite Staters."
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Original text here: https://www.banking.nh.gov/news-and-media/commissioner-galdieri-joins-new-hampshire-bankers-association-capitol-day
Mass. Environmental Protection Dept.: Clean Water Trust Approves $7 Million in New Loans and Grants at Its March Meeting
BOSTON, Massachusetts, March 5 -- The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection issued the following news release on March 4, 2026:
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Clean Water Trust Approves $7 Million in New Loans and Grants at its March Meeting
The Massachusetts Clean Water Trust's (the Trust) Board of Trustees approved $7,046,000 in new low-interest loans and grants at its meeting on March 4, 2026. Below is information on the loans approved at the meeting.
The Trust, in collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP), helps communities build or replace water infrastructure
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BOSTON, Massachusetts, March 5 -- The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection issued the following news release on March 4, 2026:
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Clean Water Trust Approves $7 Million in New Loans and Grants at its March Meeting
The Massachusetts Clean Water Trust's (the Trust) Board of Trustees approved $7,046,000 in new low-interest loans and grants at its meeting on March 4, 2026. Below is information on the loans approved at the meeting.
The Trust, in collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP), helps communities build or replace water infrastructurethat enhances ground and surface water resources, ensures the safety of drinking water, protects public health and develops resilient communities. It accomplishes these objectives by providing low-interest loans and grants to cities, towns and water utilities through the Massachusetts State Revolving Funds (SRFs). The SRF programs are partnerships between the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. SRFs function like an environmental infrastructure bank by financing water infrastructure projects in cities and towns across the Commonwealth.
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Table: Clean Water Project
Table: School Water Improvement Grant (SWIG)
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For More Information
For more information on our different loan programs, please visit the SRF Programs page and our Loan Forgiveness Program page. For information on past meetings or to find project descriptions, please visit the Board of Trustees Meeting Information page. For information on how to apply for an SRF loan, please visit Mass DEP's State Revolving Fund Applications and Forms page.
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About the Clean Water Trust
Since its establishment in 1989, the Trust has loaned roughly $10.4 billion to improve and maintain the quality of water in the Commonwealth. An estimated 97 percent of Massachusetts' residents have benefited from the financial assistance of the Trust.
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Original text here: https://www.mass.gov/news/clean-water-trust-approves-7-million-in-new-loans-and-grants-at-its-march-meeting
Maine State Sen. Reny Shares 2026 MDOT Work Plan for State Bridge and Road Projects
AUGUSTA, Maine, March 5 -- The Maine Senate Democrats issued the following news on behalf of Maine State Sen. Cameron Reny, D-Bristol:
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Sen. Reny shares 2026 MDOT work plan for state bridge and road projects
Sen. Cameron Reny, D-Bristol, is pleased to announce the details of Maine's three-year transportation infrastructure work plan, and what it means for Senate District 13. The plan is released annually with an outline of the Maine Department of Transportation's strategy for road, bridge and other transportation upgrades and maintenance projects.
According to the Maine DOT, the three-year
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AUGUSTA, Maine, March 5 -- The Maine Senate Democrats issued the following news on behalf of Maine State Sen. Cameron Reny, D-Bristol:
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Sen. Reny shares 2026 MDOT work plan for state bridge and road projects
Sen. Cameron Reny, D-Bristol, is pleased to announce the details of Maine's three-year transportation infrastructure work plan, and what it means for Senate District 13. The plan is released annually with an outline of the Maine Department of Transportation's strategy for road, bridge and other transportation upgrades and maintenance projects.
According to the Maine DOT, the three-yearwork plan makes a $4.5 billion investment in the construction and maintenance of transportation infrastructure across the state. It includes 2,798 individual work items for the calendar years 2026, 2027 and 2028.
In 2026, the Maine DOT will undertake numerous projects to improve transportation in Senate District 13, such as investing in the Boothbay Region by adding an on-road sidewalk for pedestrians on Route 27 from Hackmatack Road, through the round-a-bout, and then continuing north 0.14 of a mile on Back River Road.
Additionally, the Maine DOT will focus on repairing the wearing surface, curb, and rail on the Goose River Bridge in Waldoboro and the first phase of constructing a new wastewater treatment plant in Wiscasset.
"It is not a secret that many of our rural Lincoln and Knox County roads need improvement, and that is why I am excited that Maine DOT has committed to spending time and resources around Senate District 13 to do this," said Sen. Reny. "Additionally, our district relies heavily on the working waterfront and tourism industry, so I am pleased that Maine DOT will also be improving sidewalks, wharves, and piers."
The following breakdown is the planned capital and maintenance work by Maine DOT for communities in Senate District 13 in calendar year 2026:
Aviation
* Wiscasset: Projected funds for the Wiscasset Municipal Airport.
* Wiscasset: Reconstruct Runway 7/25 Phase III at the Wiscasset Municipal Airport.
Bicycle/Pedestrian
* Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor: On-road sidewalk beginning 0.08 of a mile south of Hackmatack Road and extending north 0.63 of a mile to the traffic circle, then continuing north 0.14 of a mile on Back River Road.
* Damariscotta: On-road sidewalk/trail beginning 0.01 of a mile south of Church Street and extending north 0.36 of a mile on Main Street.
Bridge and Structural Maintenance
* Alna: Dock Bridge (#3284) over Sheepscot River. Located 0.22 of a mile south of Route 194.
* Alna: Ben Brook Bridge (#0610) over Ben Brook 2. Located 0.37 of a mile south of the Jefferson town line. FHWA Culvert Grant Recipient.
* Waldoboro: Repairing wearing surface, curb, and rail on Goose River Bridge (#5265) which carries Route 220 over Goose River in Friendship and Waldoboro. Located 0.11 of a mile northeast of the intersection of Bayview Road.
* Waldoboro: Header, joint, and deck repair on Soule Bridge (#5427), which carries Mill Street over Medomak River in Waldoboro. Located 200 feet west of the intersection of Jefferson Street.
* Waldoboro: Repainting Medomak River Bridge (#6159), which carries Route 220 over Medomak River in Waldoboro. Located 0.53 of a mile south of the intersection of Deer Run Lane.
Drainage Maintenance
* Bremen, Bristol: Ditching and replacing culverts in various places on Route 32 in Bristol and Bremen. Beginning 160 feet north of the intersection of Long Cove Point Road in Bristol and extending 13.46 miles north to the Bremen-Waldoboro town line.
* Waldoboro: Replacing culvert (#92889) on Route 32 in Waldoboro. Located 260 feet southwest of the intersection of Noahs Way.
* Waldoboro: Ditching on Route 220 in Waldoboro. Beginning at the intersection of Route 1 and extending 7.39 miles north to the Waldoboro-Washington town line.
Highway Paving
* Dresden, Pittston, Wiscasset: Route 27 beginning at Route 1 and extending north 12.67 miles.
* Bristol, South Bristol: Route 129 beginning at Route 130 and extending south 5.89 miles.
* Waldoboro: Jefferson Street beginning at Route 220 and extending north 0.53 of a mile to Route 1.
* Waldoboro: Manktown Road beginning at Route 1 and extending north 3.03 miles to Route 235.
* Waldoboro: West Main Street beginning at Route 1 and extending east 1.70 miles to Route 220.
Highway Safety and Spot Improvements
* Boothbay Harbor: Route 27 beginning 0.34 of a mile northeast of Lakeside Drive and extending north 1.05 miles.
* Damariscotta: Route 1B beginning 0.01 of a mile east of Church Street and extending northeast 2.33 miles.
* Waldoboro: Route 220 cross culvert (#93599) located 0.67 of a mile south of Feylers Corner.
* Waldoboro: Village Partnership Initiative. Intersection of Jefferson Street and Route 220.
Special Programs
* Boothbay Harbor: Grant Program for Wharves and Piers that provide a significant and compelling benefit to Maine's commercial fishing and aquaculture industries.
* South Bristol: Grant Program for Wharves and Piers that provide a significant and compelling benefit to Maine's commercial fishing and aquaculture industries.
* Wiscasset: Phase 1 of constructing a new treatment plant.
View the entire 2026-2027-2028 Three-Year MDOT Work Plan at www.mainedot.gov.
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Original text here: https://www.mainesenate.org/sen-reny-shares-2026-mdot-work-plan-for-state-bridge-and-road-projects/
In Northumberland County, Gov. Shapiro Announces $5.7 Million Investment to Build New Pad-Ready Site, Boost Pennsylvania's Economic Competitiveness
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, March 5 -- Gov. Josh Shapiro, D-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release on March 4, 2026:
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In Northumberland County, Governor Shapiro Announces $5.7 Million Investment to Build New Pad-Ready Site, Boost Pennsylvania's Economic Competitiveness
The Shapiro Administration is investing in the Commonwealth's economic competitiveness, awarding a $5.7 million PA SITES grant for the development of a pad-ready site in Northumberland County.
The funding will be used to install water infrastructure, relocate utility poles, and prepare a pad-ready site to attract
... Show Full Article
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, March 5 -- Gov. Josh Shapiro, D-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release on March 4, 2026:
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In Northumberland County, Governor Shapiro Announces $5.7 Million Investment to Build New Pad-Ready Site, Boost Pennsylvania's Economic Competitiveness
The Shapiro Administration is investing in the Commonwealth's economic competitiveness, awarding a $5.7 million PA SITES grant for the development of a pad-ready site in Northumberland County.
The funding will be used to install water infrastructure, relocate utility poles, and prepare a pad-ready site to attractnew businesses to the area, creating jobs and real opportunity for Pennsylvanians.
Since taking office, Governor Shapiro has secured $40.4 billion in private sector investments and created more than 22,400 new jobs.
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Point Township, PA - Today, Governor Josh Shapiro joined DRIVE Industry, Focus Central Pennsylvania, and local leaders to announce a $5.7 million investment into the development of a new pad-ready site to help attract businesses to Northumberland County, through the Pennsylvania Strategic Investments to Enhance Sites (PA SITES) program.
DRIVE Industry, a local economic development entity serving Columbia, Montour, Northumberland, Snyder, and Union counties in Central Pennsylvania, will use funding from the Shapiro Administration for construction, engineering, and administrative costs to support the development of more than 100 acres for the Point Township Industrial Site.
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"From day one, I've worked hard to make Pennsylvania a national leader on economic development, to attract new businesses, create jobs, and expand economic opportunity not just in our cities - but in our rural and suburban communities, as well. Developing this new site is the next step in growing this region's economy and ensuring more Pennsylvanians are given real opportunities to chart their own course," said Governor Shapiro. "Pennsylvania is on the rise -- we're going to continue driving out these dollars and turning dirt into jobs and economic opportunity."
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DRIVE has already invested $4 million to acquire the over-100 acre plot, and will complete the required earthwork, grading, relocation of utility poles, installation of a 125,000-gallon water tank, and conduct the required studies for environmental permitting for an on-lot septic system -- as the land currently lacks access to public water and sewer.
"Through Governor Shapiro's PA SITES program, we are catalyzing new business investment across Pennsylvania by making sure companies have sites and infrastructure ready to go to meet their needs," said DCED Secretary Rick Siger. "This site offers a strategic location and a highly skilled workforce--characteristics that make it very attractive to businesses looking to grow in Pennsylvania. We will continue to make investments that create more good-paying jobs, improve quality of life, and strengthen our economy for years to come."
Once complete, Point Township Industrial Site will be shovel-ready for manufacturing or industrial development and serve to attract new employers, expand economic opportunity, and create new jobs for Pennsylvanians.
"This investment by the Commonwealth is a game changer for this property. Ready sites translate into capital investment which creates jobs and builds regional prosperity," said Jennifer Wakeman, Executive Director of DRIVE Industry. "The PA SITES funds are exactly what we need to bring this site to its full potential."
To date, DRIVE has attracted approximately $100 million in private capital investment to the Central Pennsylvania region -- and today's announcement will lead to more opportunity for Pennsylvanians in Northumberland County.
"Today's PA SITES award for the Point Township Industrial Site is more than a grant -- it's a bold investment in Central Pennsylvania's future," said Lauren Bryson, Executive Director of Focus Central Pennsylvania. "By transforming this 101-acre, industrial zoned, rail-served property into a pad-ready site, DRIVE is removing risk, accelerating timelines, and creating the certainty today's manufacturers demand. In a global marketplace, ready sites win projects -- and this investment positions our region to compete for high-quality, high-impact opportunities that will shape the next chapter of American industry."
Shapiro Administration's Progress to Grow Pennsylvania's Workforce and Strengthen the Economy
The Shapiro Administration is building on three years of momentum, investing in long-term economic growth, and ensuring communities across the Commonwealth can compete and win. The Governor's 2026-27 budget proposal increases funding for innovation in the areas of opportunity laid out in Pennsylvania's economic development strategy - including life sciences, robotics and technology, energy, and manufacturing.
* The PA First Program, which connects businesses with trained workers and supports job retention and capital investments, will receive an additional $10 million for a total of $38 million in this budget.
* Innovate in PA 2.0: Back in 2013 under a Republican Governor, Pennsylvania launched the Innovation fund. Building off of that legacy, this budget creates the Innovate in PA 2.0 program to deploy nearly $100 million into the state's innovation economy. Innovate in PA 2.0 would provide capital for promising startups - following in the footsteps of companies like Gecko Robotics in Pittsburgh or Gilson Snow in Selinsgrove - fund clinical trials for the life sciences, and develop a workforce and education pipeline to help these companies succeed.
Pennsylvania's Business Climate and Growing Economy is Earning National Recognition
From day one, Governor Shapiro has worked to spur economic development through historic investments in site development, main streets, small businesses, and workforce development, while cutting red tape and streamlining permitting and licensing. Now, Pennsylvania's competing -- and winning.
Since taking office, the Shapiro Administration has secured over $40.4 billion in private-sector investments, creating more than 22,400 good-paying jobs across the Commonwealth:
* Pennsylvania is the only state in the Northeast with a growing economy, based on analysis done by Moody's Analytics Chief Economist Mark Zandi.
* Area Development ranked Pennsylvania among the top 20 "Best States for Business" -- the only Northeastern state to make the list -- and placed the Commonwealth in the top 10 for "Site Readiness Programs."
* Site Selection Magazine named Pennsylvania one of the top business climates in the nation.
* Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that Pennsylvania ranks among the top states in the nation for five-year new business survival.
In every corner of the Commonwealth, businesses are expanding and creating real opportunities for Pennsylvanians -- from Johnson & Johnson in Montgomery County, Eli Lilly in Lehigh County, Eurofins inLancaster County, Calgon Carbon Corporation in Pittsburgh, Farm Plast in Lycoming County, to Eos inAllegheny County, Nichols Portland in Elk County, Imperial Systems in Mercer County, Qualex in Venango County, and Tate in York County.
Learn more about how the Shapiro Administration is leading on economic development to build a stronger, more competitive economy for all Pennsylvanians.
Watch the Governor's full budget address to a joint session of the House and Senate here (https://pacast.com/m?p=28916) and read the Governor's full remarks as prepared for delivery here (https://www.pa.gov/governor/newsroom/2026-press-releases/governor-shapiro-s-2026-27-budget-address-as-prepared-for-delive).
Read the Governor's 2026-27 proposed budget in brief here (https://www.pa.gov/content/dam/copapwp-pagov/en/budget/documents/publications-and-reports/commonwealthbudget/2026-27-budget-documents/2026-27%20budget%20in%20brief.final.web.v.2.pdf).
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Original text here: https://www.pa.gov/governor/newsroom/2026-press-releases/in-northumberland-county--governor-shapiro-announces--5-7-millio
Ariz. State Senate Republicans Advance Crime Victim Protection Bills, Close Loopholes Exploited by Offenders
PHOENIX, Arizona, March 5 -- The Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus issued the following news release on March 4, 2026:
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Senate Republicans Advance Crime Victim Protection Bills, Close Loopholes Exploited by Offenders
Senate Republicans are taking action to protect children, families, and crime victims by strengthening Arizona law, closing dangerous loopholes, and giving courts and law enforcement clearer tools to hold offenders accountable.
This week, the Senate passed a package of public safety bills aimed at preventing repeat offenses, improving monitoring of dangerous criminals,
... Show Full Article
PHOENIX, Arizona, March 5 -- The Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus issued the following news release on March 4, 2026:
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Senate Republicans Advance Crime Victim Protection Bills, Close Loopholes Exploited by Offenders
Senate Republicans are taking action to protect children, families, and crime victims by strengthening Arizona law, closing dangerous loopholes, and giving courts and law enforcement clearer tools to hold offenders accountable.
This week, the Senate passed a package of public safety bills aimed at preventing repeat offenses, improving monitoring of dangerous criminals,and ensuring offenders cannot evade justice through technical gaps in the law. Nearly all Senate Democrats voted against these measures.
SB 1239, sponsored by former Senate Majority Leader Janae Shamp, removes the statute of limitations for prosecuting individuals who fail to register as sex offenders, ensuring offenders cannot avoid accountability simply by waiting out the clock.
SB 1402, also sponsored by Senator Shamp, requires courts to impose a fee on certain probationers to help cover the cost of GPS or electronic monitoring devices when monitoring is ordered, ensuring taxpayers are not solely responsible for supervision costs tied to serious offenders.
"Arizona already has strong protections for victims, but when we identify weaknesses in the law, we have a responsibility to fix them," said Senator Shamp. "These bills close loopholes offenders try to exploit, strengthen accountability for predators, and give law enforcement the tools they need to keep communities safe. Protecting innocent people must always come first."
SB 1635, sponsored by Senate Majority Leader John Kavanagh, creates a new criminal offense for knowingly warning someone in real time about an active law enforcement effort to arrest them. The legislation targets intentional actions meant to help suspects evade arrest while protecting lawful communications such as legal advice or cooperation with law enforcement.
"If someone is actively helping a suspect dodge arrest, that is not free speech, that is obstruction," said Majority Leader John Kavanagh. "This bill makes it clear that intentionally tipping off criminals during an ongoing arrest effort has consequences. We stand with law enforcement, not with those trying to undermine them."
SB 1502, sponsored by Senator David Gowan, strengthens penalties for individuals who flee from law enforcement and put others at risk during dangerous pursuits. The legislation increases criminal consequences when a driver recklessly endangers others while attempting to evade police and establishes tougher felony penalties when serious injury occurs, a minor is present in the vehicle, or the driver is impaired.
"Running from law enforcement is not a harmless decision, it puts officers, families, and innocent drivers in danger," said Senator Gowan. "This bill makes clear that if someone chooses to flee and recklessly endanger lives, the consequences will be serious. Public safety has to come first."
All four bills move to the House for consideration.
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Original text here: https://www.azsenaterepublicans.gov/press-releases/senate-republicans-advance-crime-victim-protection-bills
ACC Votes to Eliminate Renewable Energy Standard and Tariff (REST) Rules
PHOENIX, Arizona, March 5 -- The Arizona Corporation Commission issued the following news release on March 4, 2026:
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ACC Votes to Eliminate Renewable Energy Standard and Tariff (REST) Rules
At the Arizona Corporation Commission's (ACC) March 4, 2026, Open Meeting, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the repeal of the Renewable Energy Standard and Tariff (REST) Rules, which were adopted by the Commission in 2006. Since then, the REST Rules have served the purpose of expanding renewable energy production in Arizona. In the past year, through its approvals of Line Siting projects,
... Show Full Article
PHOENIX, Arizona, March 5 -- The Arizona Corporation Commission issued the following news release on March 4, 2026:
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ACC Votes to Eliminate Renewable Energy Standard and Tariff (REST) Rules
At the Arizona Corporation Commission's (ACC) March 4, 2026, Open Meeting, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the repeal of the Renewable Energy Standard and Tariff (REST) Rules, which were adopted by the Commission in 2006. Since then, the REST Rules have served the purpose of expanding renewable energy production in Arizona. In the past year, through its approvals of Line Siting projects,this Commission has helped expand Arizona's renewable energy portfolio.
The mandates are no longer needed and the costs are no longer justified. Twenty years have passed since the ACC adopted the REST rules. During that time, APS, TEP, and UNSE have collected more than $2.3 Billion in REST surcharges from all customer classes to meet these mandates. The renewable energy landscape has changed dramatically in the last two decades.
"Lawmakers and leaders nowadays are making a lot of affordability promises. But promises don't lower bills -- policy does," said Chairman Nick Myers. "The Commission took action and made a policy decision that actually eliminates costs, which will result in lower energy bills."
"There is no disputing that Arizona's current renewable portfolio is one of the most robust in the country and has the potential to thrive for the foreseeable future," said Commissioner Kevin Thompson. "While some point to the REST rules as a major impetus for that success, the time has come for the renewable mandate and the customer surcharges that have cost ratepayers billions of dollars to end. Industry must find a way to capitalize on the economics of renewables and demonstrate their reliability without relying upon subsidies or forcing ratepayers to pay for mandates that have outlived their useful life."
APS, TEP, and UNSE have already met the standards that require electric utilities to generate 15% of their energy from renewable sources by 2025. The price customers have paid for the various renewable programs is steep. APS, TEP, and UNSE have spent over $779 million on incentives to customers in ACC-approved REST programs. These incentives, paid for by other customers, have resulted in significant financial burden over the years.
Furthermore, some utilities are saddled with above-market solar contracts that were entered into to comply with the REST Rules, costs which appear in a utility's purchased power adjustor. APS customers are paying higher rates because of costly contracts that APS would not have been entered into if not for the REST rules. For example, APS has paid $1.125 billion for solar power through a 30-year contract entered into in 2013 with Solana power plant. Under the contract terms, APS customers so far have paid $274.3 million more than the solar power was worth in the market. Ratepayers will continue to pay above-market prices for at least 17 more years.
The bottom line comes down to affordability. These REST mandates have unnecessarily driven up costs for customers over the past twenty years by forcing customers to pay for REST incentives and programs and in effect forcing utilities to enter renewable contracts that were not cost-effective.
"The Commission requires an all source Request For Proposal (RFP) when utilities need to serve new load or demand," said Vice Chair Rachel Walden. "This ensures the lowest cost, most reliable solutions. All energy contracts and production must pass a true cost benefit test without the government placing their finger on the scale."
"The REST Rules are now expired and have served its purpose," said Commissioner Rene Lopez. "Renewable energy generation is a viable, cost-efficient source of energy and can stand on its own merit without the continuation of the REST Rules."
All documents related to this case can be found in the Commission's eDocket system at https://edocket.azcc.gov/, Docket No. RE-00000A-24-0026.
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Original text here: https://www.azcc.gov/news/home/2026/03/05/acc-votes-to-eliminate-renewable-energy-standard-and-tariff-(rest)-rules
