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AZ utility to study time-shifting rooftop solar

Posted at 10:56 AM, Jan 13, 2016
and last updated 2016-01-13 13:01:17-05

Arizona regulators have given the state's largest electrical utility the go-ahead to explore the idea of time-shifting energy produced through residential rooftop solar.

The Arizona Corporation Commission on Tuesday authorized Arizona Public Service Co. to develop a pilot program to evaluate residential-level energy storage.

The commission says the study will explore technologies to help manage customer demand, shift load, and meet system requirements.

Chairman Doug Little says energy storage could allow rooftop solar customers to save money on their electric bills by time-shifting energy produced during non-peak hours for use during peak times.

Data collection will continue through 2017, but the APS is to submit initial reports on costs and benefits by October.

The Commission also directed APS to propose a program to encourage the use of energy storage.