NEW: Data centers are adding to Peak Demand of energy in AZ at a rate 100 times faster than other customer classes, according to APS stats, causing 94% of new energy needs. Homeowners paying a rate hike nearly 3X that of data centers. @12news

NEW: Arizona Energy Regulators Keep Rooftop Solar Fee Intact, Approve New Ratemaking Formula Order. Consumer Agency Opposes Both Measures. @12news

AZ Attorney General Office: What’s missing in the APS Cost of Service study is an analysis showing what costs would face APS if rooftop solar customers did not exist. (An APS witness said previously it would be hundreds of megawatts, akin to a new generating plant.)

APS Attorney: Because APS has fourth largest group of rooftop solar customers in U.S., a “tool” like the Grid Access Fee is needed. Says storms, cloud cover and solar “system failures” require APS to compensate for drops solar production.

APS Customer: “Instead of adding barriers to residential solar adoption, APS should encourage it.” (APS’ response to this is the solar fee is about fairness to all customers.) Stakeholders point out this fee is unlike anything in the country. @12news

NEW: AZ Energy regulators are voting today whether to move ahead with a new monthly fee for APS rooftop solar owners. A judge has concluded fee is optional - it does not discriminate against other APS customers either way if it’s implemented or not.

Will AZ homeowners pay higher electricity costs because the state is an attractive place for A.I. data centers? Such facilities gobble up massive amounts of energy. Many experts believe residential power customers will pay. More in link. @12news

NEW: AZ Regulators rush historic vote on electric & water policies. The new approach to regulation does not benefit consumers, the commission’s own expert says. @12news

Public comment is over. Commissioner Anna Tovar is asking stakeholders to elaborate on alternate solutions the Commission could have pursued. Consumer advocates reiterating process has been rushed, describing this as a “tectonic shift.” @12news

Chair O’Connor falsely says in meeting no one has brought solutions to Commission about how to improve rate making process. The stakeholder representing big companies like Microsoft & Google have filed several solutions that O’Connor has not acknowledged. @12news

of Commerce, say it will reduce "regulatory lag" and reduce long-term costs to consumers. Commission meeting resumes at 12:45. Watch here and look for my report at 6pm on 12News.

Great cameo moment with our own Troy Hayden interviewing his wife, Kristy of the Wildlife World Zoo! The sloth had no comment. Turkey Tuesday coverage continues thru the afternoon. This is Troy’s first Turkey Tuesday with the @12news family!