In a growing debate over utility fees, solar energy supporters are challenging a fee imposed on Arizona Public Service (APS) customers who use solar panels. The fee, referred to as a “grid access charge,” typically amounts to $2-3 each month for customers with average rooftop solar systems.
Introduced in March, this charge was upheld in a November hearing, despite opposition from advocacy groups. The Arizona Solar Energy Industries Association, alongside Vote Solar and the Attorney General’s office, have recently submitted a rehearing request. Autumn Johnson, who directs the association, voiced concerns.
“The only customers that are being charged for power that they don’t use is solar customers. And so it’s punitive. And we think that it’s discriminatory,” Johnson stated, highlighting the methodology used to calculate the fee and its lack of a cap, with APS staff suggesting it could reach $80 monthly.
Despite repeated requests, neither APS nor the Arizona Corporation Commission provided interviews. However, an APS spokesperson explained in a written statement that solar customers pay less than it costs to serve them, justifying the fee to ensure these customers contribute their “fair share.”
If the rehearing is denied, advocates plan to escalate the matter to the Arizona Court of Appeals. More details can be found in the Arizona Corporation Commission’s news release and the filings protesting it.
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