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The Arizona Republic

The Arizona Republic

Science

Science

Rooftop solar growth dims in sunny Arizona as regulators clash and costs climb

The Arizona Republic
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Monthly permitting for rooftop solar in Arizona has dropped by one-third since 2023 .

Arizona Public Service has reported a roughly 50% drop in rooftop solar installations in 2024 .

Industry analysts say a number of economic factors are responsible for the cool-down.

The drop in permits comes just ahead of a new presidential administration that has pledged to reduce federal support for clean energy.

High interest rates and housing costs dragged on Arizona ’s rooftop solar numbers this year , experts say.

Arizona Corporation Commission has approved rules making it less appealing for utility customers to use rooftop solar panels.

Industry professionals say the industry is struggling as it faces scrutiny over dodgy business practices.

Arizona has lagged behind some other western states in boosting its renewable energy supplies.

Regulators once required Arizona utilities to receive roughly 5% of their power from “distributed” renewable sources like rooftop solar.

Without continued rooftop solar installation, utilities would likely rely on larger, more centralized projects to reach their renewable energy goals.