Phoenix, Ariz. (August 7, 2024) – Arizona Public Service Company (APS) and Salt River Project (SRP) both set new records for peak electricity demand on Sunday, August 4, 2024 between 5 and 6 p.m. The high temperature in Phoenix on August 4 was 116 degrees.
“Our utilities continue to deliver reliable power in the face of excessive temperatures and ever-increasing electricity demand. Arizona continues to be ranked in the top ten of states with the most reliable power—a critical statistic for which each of us is thankful during these record-breaking temperatures,” said Chairman Jim O’Connor.
This year, utilities anticipated reaching record highs, and their predictions were accurate.
Company Highest Peak Demand to Date in 2024 Record High in 2023
APS 8,212 MW on August 4, 2024 8,200 MW
SRP 8,219 MW on August 4, 2024 8,163 MW
TEP/UNS 2,917 MW on July 8, 2024 2,969 MW
According to TEP, its peak demand on August 4, 2024, reached 2,661 MW. “Our utilities are facing unprecedented challenges in balancing the needs of our energy demands during this hot summer while ensuring energy reliability at the most affordable rates,” said Commissioner Lea MárquezPeterson. “Their summer preparedness planning for peak demand is vitally important to keeping our families safe and cool in the summer.”
Earlier this year, the three largest utilities assured the Commission that they are prepared to produce more than 23,000 megawatts of electricity to meet customers’ daily summer demands.
Company # Customers Capacity Peak Forecast
APS 1.3 million 9,742 MW 8,403 MW
SRP 1.1 million 9,385 MW 8,257 MW
TEP/UNS 719,000 3,500 MW 2,974 MW
The Arizona Corporation Commission remains committed to rigorously regulating resource planning to ensure that our energy landscape remains affordable, reliable, and responsive to the needs of Arizonans. The Commission encourages Arizonans to be mindful and help reduce electric demand during peak hours. Actions, such as lowering energy use during peak hours and signing up for demand response programs can contribute to reducing overall customer demand and reducing monthly electric bills.