Full Breakdown
Arizona Utility Settlement Prevents Power Shutoffs During Extreme Heat
4/16/2026, 5:19:54 AM
Settlement Details and Background
Arizona Public Service (APS), the largest utility in Arizona, has reached a $7 million settlement to prevent the disconnection of electrical service for nonpayment during extreme heat conditions, specifically when temperatures reach 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius) or above. This agreement follows a lawsuit initiated partly due to the death of 82-year-old Katherine Korman, who died in May 2024 after her power was disconnected on a day when temperatures soared to approximately 99 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celsius). The settlement includes a provision for APS to pay $2.7 million into a state consumer protection fund and $3.4 million to enhance a program that allows customers to designate emergency contacts for notifications regarding potential disconnections.
Implications of the Settlement
The settlement aims to address serious concerns regarding the safety of vulnerable populations during extreme heat events. Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes emphasized the importance of this agreement, stating, “No Arizonan should be at risk because they cannot afford their electric bill.” The settlement mandates that APS will no longer disconnect power based solely on the calendar date, ensuring that service remains active during dangerous temperature conditions.
Official Statements & Responses
APS did not admit any wrongdoing as part of the settlement but asserted that it already complies with state laws and regulations regarding disconnection policies and customer communications. The utility expressed its commitment to customer safety, stating, “Our entire team at APS prioritizes customer safety and cares deeply about the well-being of our customers and community.”
Criticism & Opposition
While the settlement marks a significant step towards protecting consumers, some critics argue that the measures may not go far enough. Concerns persist regarding the adequacy of the emergency contact program and whether it will effectively prevent future tragedies. The ongoing issue of heat-related deaths in Maricopa County, which reported 430 such fatalities last year, underscores the urgency of addressing these disconnection practices.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There is a discrepancy in the reported number of heat-related deaths over the past few years in Maricopa County. The county confirmed 430 deaths in the previous year, a decrease from 608 in 2024 and 645 in 2023. However, the first confirmed heat-related death of 2026 was reported just last week, indicating that the issue remains critical and ongoing.
What's Next
The settlement will likely lead to increased scrutiny of utility practices in Arizona, particularly regarding customer protections during extreme weather conditions. Future evaluations may focus on the effectiveness of the emergency contact program and the overall impact of the settlement on reducing heat-related fatalities.
