PHOENIX — The Arizona Corporation Commission has ensured that utilities are ready to handle high electricity demand during the heat wave.
For 2024, utility companies expect electricity use to exceed last year’s record levels, according to a news release.
“Hotter temperatures and monsoon winds increase the pressure on our electric grid as we use more power each year,” said Chairman Jim O’Connor. “Fortunately, Arizona has excellent utilities with dedicated employees working to keep our power reliable.”
In April, SRP, APS, and Tucson Electric Power assured the Commission that they can collectively provide over 23,000 gigawatts of electricity this summer, according to the news release.
Which utility companies see the most demand?
As of July 8, APS’s highest electricity demand is 8,100 megawatts, down from 8,200 MW at its peak in 2023.
SRP’s peak demand on July 8 is 8,087 MW, compared to 8,163 MW last year.
TES’s peak demand is 2,197 MW, significantly lower than the 2,969 MW peak in 2023.
How to reduce utilities usage?
The commission advises Arizonans to cut back on electricity use from 4 to 7 p.m., when demand is highest.
O’Connor suggests saving energy by raising your thermostat by one or two degrees and delaying the use of major appliances or charging vehicles until later in the evening or early in the morning.