Governor Hobbs announces the launch of "Efficiency Arizona"

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs announces the launch of Efficiency Arizona, a program aimed at reducing energy costs for residents.Photo byImage: Tysonomo Multimedia

PHOENIX — Arizona residents will have new opportunities to reduce energy costs and improve home efficiency starting this fall, according to a news release from the Governor's Office dated Aug. 30, 2024.

The Office of Resiliency has launched Phase 1 of the Efficiency Arizona program, a statewide initiative designed to increase energy efficiency, promote clean energy, and reduce utility bills.

"Arizona is no stranger to the heat, yet we have always risen to the challenge, protected our neighbors, and built a sustainable and thriving state,” Governor Katie Hobbs said in the release.

"We are taking advantage of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to lower costs and help Arizonans stay safe in the extreme heat. I’ll keep working to ensure we have the resources we need to build a resilient and sustainable state."

The first phase of Efficiency Arizona focuses on replacing air conditioning units with heat pumps for residents facing extreme heat and meeting income eligibility requirements.

This phase targets households earning below 80% of the area median income (AMI) and those between 80% and 150% of AMI.

The program is a partnership with Wildfire, a regional community action agency, and other local organizations, as stated in the release.

Maren Mahoney, director of the Arizona Governor's Office of Resiliency, echoed the governor's sentiments, emphasizing the program's broader impact.

"Efficiency Arizona will not only provide financial relief to households through substantial rebates but also contribute to our state’s broader goals of environmental sustainability and resilience."

The Office of Resiliency, along with Resource Innovations, will collaborate closely with community-based organizations, utilities, and industry associations across the state to ensure the program’s success, according to the release.

“Too many indoor heat-related deaths happen every year across the state because of inoperable air conditioning units,” Kelly McGowan, executive director of Wildfire, said in the release.

“We’re looking forward to keeping this crucial issue at the forefront and providing Arizonans most vulnerable to our hot summers with the resources they need to stay safe.”

For more information, visit the Efficiency Arizona website at www.efficiencyarizona.com.