The proposed bill would amend current statutes by requiring the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) to conduct a grid security review at least every two years, or as part of its integrated resource planning process or biennial transmission assessment. This review would involve each investor-owned public service corporation evaluating technologies to protect against physical and cyberattacks, assessing risks associated with electromagnetic pulses, and updating their cybersecurity and grid protection protocols for ACC review. The ACC would also confirm that these corporations have active protocols in place and assess their adequacy, making recommendations for improvements as necessary.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that all information related to the reviews, including plans and protocols, will not be open to public inspection. It emphasizes the state's policy to diversify energy generation assets to enhance grid reliability and prepare for potential electromagnetic pulse effects through coordinated government and private sector efforts. The bill modifies existing language to reflect these new requirements and clarifies the ACC's authority to adopt and amend review processes as deemed reasonable and in the public interest.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 40-360.14
Senate Engrossed Version: 40-360.14
House Engrossed Version: 40-360.14