Commissioner Lea Márquez Peterson announced on March 27 that the Arizona Corporation Commission has opened a formal inquiry into the potential use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the operations of regulated utilities. The new docket, titled “In the Matter of Researching and Discussing the Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to More Efficiently and Reliably Deliver Energy and Water to Customers,” aims to explore how AI can be integrated into daily plant operations and distribution systems managed by Arizona’s energy and water providers.
The topic is significant as it addresses how critical infrastructure, such as energy and water systems, might benefit from technological advancements. Commissioner Márquez Peterson said, “Our regulated utilities operate energy and water plants and distribution systems that are identified as critical infrastructure for Arizona. Discussions have been occurring frequently at national and regional conferences on the use of AI to automate and improve services. It’s important that our Commission engage in the dialogue surrounding these technological advancements on behalf of our regulated utilities and their ratepayers.”
According to Márquez Peterson, artificial intelligence could offer greater efficiencies for both ratepayers and utility companies. She emphasized that it is essential for regulators to understand how AI is being used by utilities in a secure way so as to protect Arizona’s energy grid and water infrastructure.
As part of this initiative, Commissioner Márquez Peterson requested participation from regulated electric, natural gas, as well as Class A and B water service companies. These organizations are asked to provide information about their current or planned uses of AI in areas such as planning, forecasting, storm response, or equipment procurement.
A workshop will be held before year-end where stakeholders and subject matter experts will discuss submissions made through the docket process.
For further information regarding this inquiry or participation details, interested parties can contact lmarquezpeterson-web@azcc.gov.
