Sustainability
Energy
The Energy indicators deal with the production and consumption of electric power in Arizona and show how we are doing as a state in utilizing electricity from sustainable (i.e., renewable) sources. Some of the indicators deal with the production and consumption of electric power in Arizona and others show how we are doing in developing solar power.
Not all electricity that is generated in Arizona is used by Arizonans; much of it is exported to other states, particularly to markets in Southern California. In addition, electricity produced in neighboring states is imported into Arizona. Of the electric energy generated in Arizona, only a small percentage is from renewable sources. In 2007, less than six percent of the energy generated in Arizona was from renewable sources and over 99% of this was from hydroelectric sources, which could be in peril if river flow declines due to climate change. We are also using more electricity per household than we used to and as the population continues to increase in Arizona, so do our energy needs.
Solar energy production lags in a state that has over 300 days of sunshine a year. Recent legislation adopted by the Arizona Corporation Commission mandates that 15 percent of energy production in the State of Arizona be from renewable sources by 2025. In order to meet this goal and maintain a sustainable supply of electricity, we will need to meet more of our energy needs with sources such as solar and wind. These sources are being developed and will provide a greater percentage of electricity for Arizona in the future.
