The Arizona Senate approved Senate Bill 1309 on Wednesday, a measure designed to ensure a stable power grid and prevent blackouts like those seen in California. The bill, introduced by State Sen. Frank Carroll, R-Rio Vista, passed with a 17-12 vote, with one senator abstaining.
SB 1309 directs the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) to ensure that any changes to the state’s power grid maintain enough electricity to meet demand during peak summer and winter months. It also mandates that any retiring power plants be replaced with facilities capable of generating the same amount of energy, preventing gaps in the state’s power supply.
Carroll argued that extreme environmental policies have led to preventable outages in other states, putting lives at risk during heat waves and extreme cold. He cited California as an example of what Arizona must avoid, where aggressive green energy policies have contributed to rolling blackouts. He emphasized that while people want a cleaner environment, reliable power must take priority.
The bill requires a balanced mix of energy resources to prevent blackouts and brownouts unrelated to severe weather or power quality issues. Supporters argue that without strong policies in place, Arizona could face increasing strain on its grid, especially as energy demands grow.
A 2023 study from the Journal of Environmental Science and Technology found that a midday blackout in Phoenix could send over 50% of residents to emergency medical care due to extreme heat exposure. While Arizona has only experienced six major weather-related outages since 2000, other states, including Texas, Michigan, and California, have faced significantly more disruptions.
If signed into law, SB 1309 will serve as a safeguard against energy instability, ensuring Arizona residents can rely on electricity when they need it most.
