The bill SB1637 amends Arizona Revised Statutes by adding section 40-207, which relates to electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. The bill prohibits electricity suppliers from using the charges, rates, tolls, and rental fees received for any commodity or service to invest in EV charging stations. However, it allows electricity suppliers to own and operate make-ready infrastructure necessary for EV charging station operation. An affiliate of an electricity supplier is permitted to provide, own, operate, or maintain EV charging stations. The bill does not apply to EV charging stations constructed, provided, owned, operated, or maintained by an electricity supplier before the effective date of this section.

The bill defines terms such as "electricity supplier," "electric vehicle," "electric vehicle charging station," "level two charging station," and "make-ready infrastructure." It also includes a legislative finding that establishing a framework to encourage private sector investment in EV charging stations is essential for fostering their rapid installation and widespread use. The bill aims to implement competitively neutral policies, develop strategies for competitive pricing, encourage private investment in publicly available EV charging stations, stimulate market innovation and competition, and develop mechanisms to support efficient and cost-effective use of the power grid in support of EV charging stations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 40-207