APS committed to renewable energy and now green vehicles

Living in one of the sunniest cities on earth (334 days per year average) it is both natural and encouraging to see that our local electricity provider is one of the most advanced in the nation when it comes to solar power and solar investment. In Phoenix, APS (Arizona Public Services) have been at the forefront of strategic investment in solar power for both commercial and residential customers. While APS have made good progress in recent years they are committed to this being just the early days of a transformation that sees people in the Phoenix area move more rapidly to renewable energy sources.

For residential users the company offers great incentives to convert to solar water heaters, solar space heaters and solar panels. Even smaller businesses are realising that following the initial investment they are in a position to sell back to the network unused electricity from solar panel installation. When factoring in combined federal and state tax credits of $3,000 mean that the installation has typically paid for itself within 36 months of installation. APS do have the programs in place and the marketing of these incentives over the coming years will ensure that their commitment to green energy is more than just a slogan. I see more solar panels every time I go out and was pleased to see that the city I live in have now converted all municipal buildings to solar energy with APS.

While resting on their laurels with the solar program active and in place may be convenient, I briefly spoke to an APS employee who was performing maintenance locally this week. I noticed his vehicle was a hybrid and he explained the fleet was being converted to diesel/vegetable oil hybrids in their entirety. Following some homework I learned more; the entire APS fleet of over 250 trucks is being converted to hybrid type vehicles. With commercial vehicles the benefits run even deeper as Hybrid trucks have been shown to decrease fuel consumption by up to 50 percent due primarily to reduced idling time while the truck is working. There is no need to have the trucks running to power equipment needed on the job site, the new hybrids will use batteries to power both the on-board equipment and the bucket. In addition to reducing fuel costs and decreasing emissions, hybrid trucks offer reduced maintenance requirements and longer engine life.

When a company with 1.1 million customers makes decisions that are as eco-aware as this they should be recognised and APS’ membership in the Electric Utility Industry Sustainable Supply Chain Alliance further illustrates the commitment to responsible stewardship of energy sources. Taking green corporate decisions to the next level and showing responsible decision making is something Miratel values deeply and the example being set by APS should be followed by other energy providers throughout North America.