How SRP Elections Affect the Arizona Solar Industry in 2025

Updated: July 29, 2025

The Salt River Project (SRP) Utility Board and Council Elections on April 2, 2024, have come and gone, propelling us once more into the intricate dynamics that govern our utilities. Pivotal changes were anticipated, some seats exchanged hands, yet a glaring issue persisted: 49% of SRP’s ratepayers remain disenfranchised, stripped of their right to vote (highlighting the disenfranchised ratepayers).  

This predicament speaks volumes about the crux of democracy within utility governance. SRP, serving a significant 240,000-acre area in the Phoenix Valley, holds a monumental role—you might say, the second most impactful office affecting Arizonans’ daily lives. Its decisions directly influence utility rates, energy source policies, and the approval of bonds for capital improvements. Yet, nearly half of its constituents have no voice in these critical decisions. Learn more about SRP Elections with Solar Topps. 

At Solar Topps, we are committed to enhancing the solar energy industry in Arizona. We are located in Downtown Phoenix, but we service cities like Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Cave Creek, North Scottsdale, and many more in the Phoenix Metro area. If you want to learn more about Solar Energy, please Contact Us. You can also fill out a Commercial or Residential Quote. 

Key Issues at Hand: 

Salt River Project (SRP) plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of energy and water management in Arizona. Despite its profound influence on residents and businesses within its jurisdiction, many are unaware of the decision-making processes or their ability to participate in shaping SRP’s policies. Understanding the significance of SRP elections is crucial, as they impact everything from sustainability initiatives to utility costs, directly affecting the quality of life for Arizonans.

Inequitable Voting Rights:

The SRP board votes are based on an acreage system established in 1937, rendering renters and numerous residents in key communities—such as Queen Creek and Ahwatukee—powerless in the election process. 

A Daunting Challenge for Solar Energy Change Advocates:

Lauren Kuby’s uphill fight for a spot on the SRP board showcases challenges for candidates advocating renewable energy and sustainability. Despite an increase in engaged voters, the system’s inherent bias overwhelmingly favors incumbents holding vast acres. 

Minimal Voter Turnout in Arizona:

This year’s elections once again highlighted the minimal engagement, with a mere 1–2% voter turnout. This alarming figure is not surprising given the convoluted voting procedure which requires online ballot requests, qualification by acreage, and navigating through less intuitive forms. 

Why High Voter Turnout Matters for Solar Energy in Arizona

High voter turnout is crucial for advancing solar energy initiatives in Arizona due to the direct correlation between public participation and policy outcomes. When more voters engage in the decision-making process, there is a greater likelihood of electing officials and passing measures that prioritize renewable energy development. Solar energy, as one of Arizona’s most abundant resources, has the potential to transform the state’s energy landscape, reduce carbon emissions, and create lasting economic benefits.

However, achieving these goals hinges on overcoming low voter participation rates, which often allow entrenched interests to dominate the conversation and stall progress. Encouraging a broader and more diverse electorate is key to ensuring that the state’s energy policies reflect the growing demand for sustainable solutions.

A Cry for Clean Energy Ignored

Results indicate a shift to ‘clean energy’ candidates, highlighting a key concern – SRP stakeholders advocate for a faster transition to renewable energy, a plea seemingly disregarded by the utility’s management.

The recent election interference by SRP’s CEO, Jim Pratt, further complicates the landscape. Trying to influence the election through internal communication not only undermines democracy but also highlights SRP’s governance lacking accountability.

Why Voting Rights Matter in Arizona: 

Giving all ratepayers voting rights isn’t just procedural; it’s about making utility governance truly representative of constituents’ needs and wishes. Making decisions that reflect the collective will of the people SRP serves requires being informed. Without this democratic right, the utility board functions in an echo chamber, out of touch with how its policies affect everyday Arizonans. 

The Way Forward for Clean Energy in Arizona: 

4 ‘clean energy’ candidates beat incumbents in preliminary SRP election results. To foster meaningful change, we must stand together to support initiatives aiming to reform SRP’s outdated voting system. Advocating for the one person, one vote principle ensures equal representation for all ratepayers, regardless of property ownership or acreage. Equally important is the push for transparent and accessible elections, ensuring clarity for all SRP constituents to engage.

What Can You Do with Your Voice? 

Change starts with awareness and thrives through collective action. I encourage all citizens and SRP ratepayers to back fair voting rights and a swift transition to clean, sustainable energy sources by SRP. SRP’s governance should reflect democratic values by empowering every ratepayer to shape utility service futures.

In a time focused on environmental stewardship, reform within SRP’s governance structure is crucial. Together, we can pave the way for a utility that excels in production, democracy, and accountability.

Advocating for Changes in the Solar Industry in 2025

SRP stands at a pivotal moment in its history, with the opportunity to lead by example in sustainable energy reform and community-centered governance. The choices made today will impact not only current ratepayers but also future generations who will depend on resilient and environmentally responsible energy systems. By fostering transparency, inclusivity, and a commitment to renewable energy, SRP can set a powerful precedent for other utility providers nationwide. It is up to all of us to advocate for these essential changes and ensure SRP fulfills its potential as a utility that prioritizes both its customers and the planet.