Arizona opinion: Response to criticism of Commissioner Lea Marquez Peterson
A recent opinion piece in the Arizona Daily Star misrepresents Lea Marquez Peterson's leadership on the Arizona Corporation Commission, distorting her record and unfairly painting her as out of touch with renewable energy goals. In reality, she and the Commission have been instrumental in shaping energy policies that balance reliability, affordability, innovation, and economic growth.
Arizona boasts one of the most reliable energy grids in the country. While states like California and Texas face rolling blackouts and massive outages, Arizona's grid remains strong, keeping homes cool during scorching summers and businesses running smoothly. This is no accident — it's the direct result of thoughtful policy decisions made by the ACC, working with utilities like TEP, APS, and SRP to ensure Arizona meets the demands of its rapidly growing population.
Ask any Arizonan: Would you trade our energy reliability for the uncertainty and high costs faced by states like California? Thanks to policies supported by Peterson and her fellow commissioners, we don't have to.
Claims that Peterson rubber-stamps rate hikes are misleading. Commissioners consistently scrutinize utility proposals, ensuring that any necessary adjustments in rates are justified and tied to critical infrastructure investments. Let's not forget: an unreliable energy grid is far more costly for families and businesses in the long run, both in terms of outages and steep price hikes. The Commission's work ensures that Arizona ratepayers have affordable, consistent energy without sudden disruptions.
Critics also fail to acknowledge that reliable energy delivery and rates are some of the top reasons businesses choose to expand or relocate here, driving high-paying jobs and economic growth. Companies are coming to Arizona because they can count on the infrastructure to support their operations without interruption.
Peterson's record shows clear support for renewable energy, but in a way that protects ratepayers from soaring costs while maintaining grid stability. Transitioning to a renewable future must be done responsibly, without undermining reliability or forcing consumers to bear the brunt of overly ambitious mandates.
The ACC's balanced energy strategy — incorporating both solar and natural gas — ensures Arizona has reliable power even when the sun isn't shining or during periods of peak demand.
Pushing for an "all-in" approach to renewables without considering backup power would leave Arizona vulnerable to blackouts and soaring energy bills.
Natural gas remains a crucial part of Arizona's energy mix, providing the consistent, reliable power necessary to keep energy costs down and the grid stable. Peterson and the Commission have prioritized strategies that protect both the environment and the pocketbooks of Arizona ratepayers, ensuring the state is prepared for future energy challenges without unnecessary financial strain on consumers.
Peterson's balanced approach has made Arizona a leader in energy reliability, a critical factor in a state where air conditioning is not just a luxury, but a necessity.
As ballots hit mailboxes and Election Day approaches, it's important for voters to separate fact from rhetoric. If you value reliable, affordable energy and appreciate a pragmatic approach to renewable energy, Lea Marquez Peterson deserves your vote to stay on the Arizona Corporation Commission.
Danny Seiden of Phoenix is the president and CEO of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry.
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