Utility PAC also spent big on federal and local races
By Energy and Policy Institute
The political action committee run by the parent company of Arizona’s largest monopoly utility, Arizona Public Service, rewarded Arizona legislators that backed its effort to stop a renewable energy ballot initiative with campaign contributions, according to campaign finance disclosures filed on July 10. The Pinnacle West PAC gave nearly $60,000 to state legislators who have voted in concert with APS’ efforts to kneecap a renewable energy ballot initiative that would require the utility to source 50% of its electricity from renewable energy by 2030. The current requirement is 15% renewable energy by 2025.
Arizona’s Secretary of State, Michele Reagan, also received $2,500 this quarter from the Pinnacle West PAC, and has received $6,000 from the PAC so far this election cycle. The Secretary of State’s office is responsible for certifying the signatures needed to put the renewable energy initiative on the ballot this November.
