THE ISSUE: Several major Arizona coal-fired power plants have recently closed or are on the brink of closure. This is ultimately a good thing for people + planet. However, the high-paying, stable jobs they supplied to these Tribal and rural communities, along with the businesses that supported them, are being left with unprecedented economic and environmental challenges. Former miners and coal plant operators are being forced to leave their homes and families to find work elsewhere, and small businesses are struggling. It doesn’t have to be this way. We need an Empowered Transition.

THE HOPE: The Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) has opened a docket on just and equitable energy transition (JET) and there are JET components in both the Tucson Electric Power (TEP) and Arizona Public Service(APS) rate cases. The goal is to secure funding and support from the utilities that heavily relied on — and profited from — these Tribal and rural communities, their land, water and workers. It’s vital to build on the skill and fortitude of the former coal workers and the industries that support them to transition to a more diversified, sustainable and stable economy.

THE HELP: If it weren’t for the sacrifices made by these Tribal and rural coal communities over the past 50+ years, Arizonans wouldn’t have reliable power, AC, heat or water. We can easily flip a switch because of them, and for this we should be thankful. Now it’s time for us to act — and ensure a path forward for a just + equitable energy transition. We need your help to tell the ACC now is the time for Empowered Transition.

More Stories