Bill > SB1113

This bill creates a new legal provision that gives public service corporations (regulated utility companies) and public power entities (a specific type of utility defined in Arizona law) a right of first refusal to construct, own, or maintain renewable energy resources within the state. Under the bill, when a county approves a zoning or special land use permit for a renewable energy project, the existing utility operating in that area must provide written notice within 90 days of its intention to develop the project. If the utility fails to provide this notice, it forfeits its right of first refusal, allowing other utilities to apply to develop the project. The bill specifically excludes residential rooftop solar systems and non-exporting, on-site renewable energy systems from these requirements. The bill also gives the Arizona Corporation Commission the authority to create rules for implementing this new provision. This legislation appears designed to provide existing utilities with priority in developing new renewable energy projects while creating a clear process for determining project ownership when multiple utilities might be interested in a specific renewable energy development opportunity.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/81996