Infrastructure

Tempe-based First Solar building a $1.1B manufacturing plant in Alabama

November 23, 2022

Alabama will soon welcome an Arizona green manufacturer that will invest more than $1.1 billion bringing a facility to the state. Tempe-headquartered First Solar Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) plans to establish a photovoltaic (PV) solar module manufacturing facility in Lawrence County, creating more than 700 new jobs in North Alabama. According to a release, the factory is part of the company’s previously announced investment in scaling its American manufacturing footprint to more than 10 gigawatts by 2025.

ACC approves energy saving programs for APS and TEP customers

November 23, 2022

Yesterday, utility regulators at Arizona Corporation Commission approved new energy saving programs for Arizona Public Service (APS) and Tucson Electric Power (TEP) customers. The energy efficiency programs, unique to each service territory, will give customers more options to save money on their utility bills and improve the health and safety of individuals. The decision to approve $97 million annually for both utilities includes funding for several new offerings, such as Advanced Rooftop Controls that improve indoor air quality for public schools and expanded access to home weatherization services that can make or break many customers’ electric bills.

AZ Corporation Commission approves changes to plan to expand wind power in Arizona

November 22, 2022

The Arizona Corporation Commission has approved a modification to a plan for new transmission lines. The vote could pave the way for more wind energy in Arizona. The SunZia Southwest Transmission Project will move wind power from central New Mexico to substations in Pinal County, bringing clean energy to rural communities and California markets.

Arizona plans to give millions to ASU for water innovation, research

November 22, 2022

The state of Arizona plans to invest $40 million in Arizona State University to lead a multi-year initiative for the state’s future water supply. The university said in a Wednesday announcement from ASU and Gov. Doug Ducey that it will work with industrial, municipal, agricultural, tribal and international partners to accelerate and deploy new approaches and technology for water conversation, augmentation, desalination, efficiency, infrastructure and reuse.

Nikola partners to accelerate charging infrastructure solutions

November 17, 2022

Nikola Corporation, a global leader in zero-emissions transportation and energy supply and infrastructure solutions, and ChargePoint Holdings, Inc., a leading electric vehicle (EV) charging network, today announced a partnership to accelerate the deployment of electric vehicle charging infrastructure for fleets across the U.S. The collaboration will enable Nikola and the Nikola Sales and Service Dealer Network to resell ChargePoint’s comprehensive portfolio of charging infrastructure and software solutions to its fleet customers, ensuring a solid technology interface and integrated sales approach between the two companies.

Arizona allocates $100 million to boost semiconductor industry in state

November 16, 2022

The state of Arizona announced on Friday that it plans to invest $100 million to support the growth of the state’s semiconductor industry. The $100 million investment will go towards building a public-private partnership focused on building out Arizona’s infrastructure, workforce and research and development for semiconductors, the state said.

Chairwoman Lea Márquez Peterson proposes Arizona electric utility partner with local start-up organizations & entrepreneurs to promote venture capital & innovation in Arizona energy industry

November 8, 2022

Chairwoman Lea Márquez Peterson of the Arizona Corporation Commission is encouraging Arizona’s largest electric utility, Arizona Public Service Company (APS), to partner with local venture capital groups to incorporate utility/energy RFPs into local start-up competitions and technology transfer programs.

SRP honors Valley businesses for outstanding efforts in energy efficiency and being green leaders

November 8, 2022

For the ninth consecutive year, Salt River Project honors local ‘Champions of Sustainability.’ From San Tan Valley to Tolleson — to cities in between — the 2022 awards recognize SRP commercial customers who participate in Business Solutions programs and lead the charge in sustainability and innovation. SRP’s energy efficiency programs are a major component to the success […]

Surging numbers: Driving an electric vehicle doesn’t need to cause range anxiety

November 4, 2022

With more electric vehicles humming down highways, states are under increasing pressure to install more public charging stations to make sure the juice keeps flowing. The challenge is particularly acute in California, which adopted a rule in August to gradually phase out sales of new gas-powered vehicles by 2035 with the goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to help fight climate change. States can take advantage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, which gives $5 billion nationally for public charging stations as part of the new National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula Program. States that write up strategic plans to expand charging station infrastructure are eligible for a grant from the program to help make it possible.

SRP signs deal for two more battery storage stations to handle peak power demand

November 3, 2022

Salt River Project said Thursday that it will add two new battery storage systems that will go online in 2024 with a combined output of 340 megawatts, giving the Arizona utility company more options during times of heavy power demand. SRP said it signed contracts with Houston-based Plus Power for the two projects, which will be built in Avondale and Gilbert. Both facilities will be owned and operated by a Plus Power subsidiary.

Infrastructure

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