Public Policy

TSMC gives insight into Arizona factory to compete for federal chips funding

November 23, 2022

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. is vying for federal funds by highlighting its work globally and its current and future operations at its planned Phoenix factory. In response to the U.S. Department of Commerce request for information on the implementation of the CHIPS incentives program, TSMC said that the CHIPS Program Office should prioritize grant applicants that have a “long successful track record in advanced logic fabrication, R&D and existing sizable headcount that offers decisive proof points that the incentives provided will lead to a successful investment result.”

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.

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.

Your vote matters, now more than ever

October 28, 2022

The general election on November 8 is quickly approaching, and making your voice heard is extremely important this year. The Arizona Technology Council is the premier trade association for science and technologies in the state. We are home to over 700 member companies ranging in size from early stage startups to large corporations. We exist to empower innovators and are dedicated to transforming Arizona into a national technology leader. As such, those who become our leaders in Arizona have a large impact on being able to continue this work.

My View: Arizona policymakers set pace for innovators — and us — to keep water in our future

October 28, 2022

When it comes to preparing for our future, the power of public policy cannot be underestimated. It can bring people together and motivate them to act for the common good. Nowhere is that more apparent than when the focus shifts to a commodity that all will agree is precious to everyone. Water. Without it, life as we know it stops.

Arizona’s clean energy future could swing on governor’s race

October 12, 2022

For a state with bountiful solar resources, Arizona’s path to a clean energy economy remains rocky as voters to prepare to choose their next governor. State regulators went back and forth on a possible mandate for 100 percent clean electricity before scrapping it earlier this year. Arizona no longer has a dedicated state energy office, even as the current Republican governor has worked to encourage manufacturing of renewables and batteries. Only about 16 percent of the state’s power generation came from renewable sources in 2021, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. That’s despite EIA also saying the state has the nation’s second-greatest solar potential.

My View: Federal legislation energizes Arizona for a cleaner tomorrow

September 23, 2022

Imagine a different sort of America. Imagine that by 2030, homes, businesses and communities will be powered by more options for clean energy. This is no longer just a pipe dream but a reality, thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) recently brought to life with the signature of President Joe Biden. And let’s not forget Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, whose pivotal vote helped get the measure across the goal line.

Texas Co. partners to roll out 13,980 electric car chargers in Arizona

September 16, 2022

Invisible Urban Charging announced that it is partnering with EV Charging of Arizona to roll out 13,980 chargers for electric vehicles (“EV”) into the State of Arizona, increasing its total number of EV chargers seven times. Arizona has more than 40,000 registered electric vehicles, according to a June 2022 report from the U.S. Department of Energy.

Solar jobs are coming to Arizona, and environmentalists, economists and engineers can’t wait

September 9, 2022

Holding up blue and green signs reading “Climate Can’t Wait” and “Fight for Our Future,” a coalition of local leaders on the front lines of Arizona’s climate fight gathered Thursday — just ahead of Labor Day — at the Tempe Transportation Center to celebrate the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act. The measure, signed into law by President Joe Biden on Aug. 16, includes $369 billion to reduce carbon emissions and expand renewable energy infrastructure, with $60 billion earmarked for clean manufacturing job creation.

Ready to buy an electric vehicle? What to know about the new tax breaks

September 9, 2022

The recently enacted Inflation Reduction Act covers a lot of ground, from reducing some drug prices to imposing a minimum corporate income tax. As much as anything, the legislation provides incentives for green energy. That includes substantial new tax breaks for consumers seeking to buy an electric car or truck. The legislation is complicated, with the overall tax sections alone running to more than 300 pages. But here are some of the key pointers for those who might want to buy a green vehicle.

Public Policy

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