Arizona’s plentiful sunshine will soon supply a small
part of the state’s power. By the start of 2001, electricity
providers in Arizona will be required to begin using renewable
resources such as the sun, wind, biomass generators and landfill
gas, for one quarter of 1 percent of total electricity used. By
2007, the state wants 1.1 percent of power to come from renewable
resources, with at least half coming from the sun. The departure
from total dependence on hydroelectric, nuclear and coal-based
power will require new equipment and cost companies an estimated
$15 to $25 million per year, says Ray Williamson of the state’s
Corporation Commission, which regulates utilities. To cover the
increase in cost, residents will pay up to 35 cents more per month,
while large businesses may pay up to $39 more per month. Williamson
says Arizonans are responding positively to the decision. “This is
not a total solution, but it is a good start in dealing with our
pollution problems.”
For a copy of the state’s
timetable, check the Web at
www.cc.state.az.us.
This article appeared in the print edition of the magazine with the headline Arizona adds sunshine.
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