Arizona lawmakers mull nuclear power (Phoenix)

A bill introduced in the Arizona Legislature would establish nuclear power as a renewable or carbon-free energy source, angering solar advocates and sparking the ire of the Arizona Corporation Commission.

House Bill 2701, introduced last week, seeks to set up a legislative version of renewable energy standards for Arizona that would require companies to get 15 percent of their power from renewable or carbon-free sources by 2025. On the list are traditional renewable sources, such as wind and solar, as well as nuclear and hydroelectric.

If the bill passes, there will be two conflicting energy standards in the state. The ACC’s requirement, passed in 2006, does not include nuclear or hydro power sources. The conflict, which is driving Arizona Public Service Co. officials to oppose the bill in its current form, could require a court ruling to determine which entity — the ACC or the Legislature — has authority to set energy policy.

Read the full story in the Phoenix Business Journal.