Environment (Climate Change)

HB 2551 establishes an Office of Resiliency within the governor’s office and sets a 50% renewable energy target for Arizona’s electric utilities by 2035. The bill directly affects electric utilities (requiring them to generate half their power from sources like solar, wind, or geothermal) and Arizonans (through potential changes in electricity rates and infrastructure planning). Key provisions include creating a state office to develop a climate resiliency plan, advise on water/energy/transportation policies, and assess climate risks to systems like water resources and infrastructure. The bill does not yet take effect, as it is in early legislative stages (House first/second reading).