Arizona's brutal summer is hard enough without the seasonal shock of opening a utility bill. This year, the state is expected to post the country's highest electricity costs for the hottest months, according to the Phoenix New Times.
For many households, staying safe during extreme heat is becoming increasingly unaffordable.
What's happening?
The National Energy Assistance Directors Association used electricity pricing data from the Energy Information Administration and temperature forecasts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to project Arizona's energy costs.
It found that they would be about $1,060 between June and September for Arizona residents, the Phoenix New Times reported. That would make Arizona the only state expected to top four digits in summer cooling expenses.
NEADA also projected a national summer average of $792, which would be a record and 40% higher than in 2020.
Elsewhere, Connecticut was projected to rank second at $994, while North Dakota was expected to have the lowest summer electricity bills at $488. Even neighboring New Mexico came in much lower at $584.
In Arizona, air conditioning is essential for much of the year, and the state's relentless heat shapes household budgets.
Why does it matter?
During extended heat waves, cutting back on cooling too much can pose serious health risks to everyone.
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The financial strain could become even more severe if utility rates continue climbing. Last year, Arizona Public Service sought a 14% increase for domestic customers, about $20 more per customer per month, while also proposing changes affecting solar customers, data centers, and "formula rates."
What's being done?
Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes, who previously served as a corporation commissioner, has pushed back against APS over the proposed increases. Her office has intervened in the utility's rate case, arguing that residents should not be forced to absorb costs that data centers should shoulder.
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