Grand Canyon Times

On February 7, 2025, Vice Chair Nick Myers and Commissioner René Lopez initiated a formal inquiry into the potential development of new nuclear generation in Arizona. This move marks the beginning of the Arizona Corporation Commission's (ACC) exploration into expanding nuclear energy options, including small modular reactors (SMRs).

Arizona Public Service (APS), Tucson Electric Power (TEP), and Salt River Project (SRP) have applied for a federal grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. The grant aims to assist in identifying suitable locations within Arizona for new nuclear facilities, particularly at sites where coal plants are being retired. Commissioner René Lopez expressed support for this initiative: “Arizona’s future energy demands will require innovative and diverse solutions,” he said. “I applaud Arizona’s utilities’ diverse outlook and for now taking exploratory steps toward nuclear generation and am excited at the prospect of expanding Arizona’s energy portfolio.”

A workshop is planned in the coming months to discuss nuclear issues with regulated electric utilities, subject matter experts, and other stakeholders.

Vice Chair Nick Myers highlighted the historical significance of nuclear energy in Arizona: "Nuclear energy has been the backbone of the Arizona electric grid since the 1980s," he stated. He further commented on the importance of exploring additional nuclear generation as a replacement for retiring coal plants: "The active exploration of new nuclear generation by our utilities is a big step for Arizona and I look forward to the benefits this will undoubtedly bring to our great state."