National business association thanks policymakers for bipartisanship and for embracing economic benefits of advanced energy.
PHOENIX, AZ, May 12, 2023 — National business group Advanced Energy United commends Governor Hobbs and the Arizona Legislature for their bipartisan efforts in passing a state budget that works to prioritize the immediate needs of Arizonans while continuing to invest in the state's advanced energy infrastructure.
The budget, which takes effect on July 1, 2023, includes allocations directly benefiting the advanced energy sector. A total of $12.5 million has been designated for electric vehicle and advanced fueling infrastructure, both for public use and to support state-owned vehicles. This crucial investment anticipates growth in the electric vehicle industry, which can only be sustained if charging demand is met by accessible and affordable infrastructure, through a combination of private charging in homes or at work, or publicly accessible charging stations.
Additionally, the budget includes an extra $12.5 million deposit, augmenting last year's $50 million, to the State Match Advantage for Rural Transportation (SMART) Fund, as well as $9 million for economic transition in coal communities. These resources will help these communities invest in advanced energy projects such as renewable energy and rural electrified transportation, including by leveraging federal grants.
“We are glad to see a sustained, bipartisan commitment to advanced energy initiatives in this year ‘s budget,” said Michael Barrio, Arizona state lead at Advanced Energy United, a national business association of companies working to achieve 100% clean energy and electrified transportation in America. “We’re experiencing unprecedented federal investment in a burgeoning industry that will power our future energy needs. Now is the time to put aside partisan divisions and take advantage of the myriad economic and workforce opportunities that these investments represent.”
Click here to learn more about Advanced Energy United’s work in Arizona advocating for clean energy and electrified transportation.