This bill proposes several updates to current statutes regarding renewable energy and climate change resilience in Arizona. Specifically, it mandates that by January 1, 2035, electric distribution utilities must generate at least fifty percent of their electricity from renewable energy resources, which are defined to include solar, wind, geothermal, hydropower, and biofuel energy. Additionally, the bill establishes the Office of Resiliency within the governor's office, which will be responsible for addressing climate change threats to the state's water and natural resources, advising the governor on relevant policies, and developing a resiliency plan to protect human and economic systems.
Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for the appointment of a director for the Office of Resiliency, who will serve at the governor's pleasure and be compensated according to existing statutes. The office will also direct state agencies to assess potential risks to various systems, including water resources, energy systems, and vital infrastructure. Notably, the bill repeals Title 49, Chapter 1, Article 6 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, indicating a significant shift in the legal framework surrounding environmental policy in the state.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 40-207, 41-112, 38-211, 38-611