Arizona Energy Providers and Universities Form Coalition to Achieve Carbon Neutrality

Strategic Insights -

Arizona's energy industry and state universities have joined forces to combat climate change by forming a coalition that aims to achieve a carbon-neutral economy in the state. The coalition, which includes four energy providers and three public universities, will launch a new center to explore strategies and solutions for reducing carbon dioxide emissions. The center, housed at Arizona State University, will focus on creating a regional clean hydrogen hub, which could help Arizona become an energy exporter and bolster its economy.

Key Takeaways:

  • The coalition, formed by four energy providers (Arizona Public Service Co., Salt River Project, Tucson Electric Power, and Southwest Gas) and three public universities (Arizona State University, the University of Arizona, and Northern Arizona University), aims to achieve a carbon-neutral economy in Arizona.
  • The new center, located at Arizona State University, will focus on creating a regional clean hydrogen hub to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and advance the state's clean energy goals.
  • Hydrogen can fuel chemical reactions that release clean energy and produce only water, making it an attractive alternative to fossil fuels.
  • The regional clean hydrogen hub will include hydrogen producers, consumers, and a connected infrastructure to ensure supply and demand are in sync.
  • The coalition will aim to establish a shared strategy to create a new hydrogen ecosystem and industry in Arizona, involving diverse stakeholders such as communities, businesses, universities, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.
  • Arizona has abundant clean energy resources, including sunshine, land, and energy providers that have committed to reducing carbon dioxide emissions.
  • The coalition's efforts could create economic opportunities and high-quality jobs in Arizona, while supporting a reliable and resilient electric grid.

Statistics:

  • Arizona Public Service Co. serves over 1.3 million homes and businesses in 11 counties and aims to provide 100% clean power by 2050.
  • Salt River Project serves approximately 1.1 million customers and delivers over 244 billion gallons of water each year.
  • Southwest Gas Corporation provides clean, affordable natural gas service to over 2 million customers in Arizona, California, and Nevada.
  • Arizona State University is ranked No. 1 "Most Innovative School" in the nation by U.S. News & World Report for seven years in succession.
  • The University of Arizona is a top 20 research university in the nation, with $761 million in annual research expenditures.
  • The coalition's efforts will also involve the development of a regional hydrogen supply chain, which could create new economic opportunities in Arizona.

Sources:

  • Pinnacle West Capital Corporation
  • Arizona Public Service Co.
  • Salt River Project
  • Southwest Gas Corporation
  • Arizona State University
  • University of Arizona
  • Northern Arizona University