Arizona Will Elect Two Utility Commissioners

Voters will choose two members for the commission that oversees Arizona utility rate-making processes.

Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Utilities

Arizona Will Elect Two Utility Commissioners

Live Poll

Should your local utility commission prioritize lower consumer rates over utility infrastructure growth?

Arizona will hold an election in November 2026 for two seats on the Arizona Corporation Commission. The commission holds significant authority over privately-owned utilities, including the power to regulate rate-making and approve major energy investment decisions.

Why it matters

The election will influence the future energy mix and utility cost structure for residents. Candidates are centering their campaigns on energy affordability and addressing public concerns regarding utility spending patterns.

The commission recently approved a 2024 APS rate hike in a 4-1 vote. Pending filings include proposed residential rate increases of 16% for APS and 14% for TEP, alongside an investigation into alleged $600 million customer subsidies for data centers.

The players

Arizona Corporation Commission

This state agency regulates privately-owned and investor-owned utilities, including their rate-making processes and energy investments.

Kevin Thompson

He has served as a member of the Arizona Corporation Commission since 2023.

Clara Pratte

She is a Democratic candidate running for a seat on the commission.

Jonathon Hill

He is a Democratic candidate campaigning for the Arizona Corporation Commission.

Ralph Heap

He is a Republican candidate who defeated Nick Myers in the primary election to run for the commission.

The details

Commissioners serve as regulators for investor-owned utilities and possess the power to subpoena records. The upcoming election features Democratic candidates Clara Pratte and Jonathon Hill, while Republican candidate Ralph Heap advanced from the primary.

Kevin Thompson began his service on the commission in 2023.
The commission approved an Arizona Public Service rate hike in 2024.
The election for two commission seats takes place in November 2026.

Market Landscape

The election impacts the future oversight of the Arizona Corporation Commission rate-making authority. This contest shapes the regulatory environment for investor-owned utilities and dictates how the state handles major energy investment decisions.

The outcome of this election directly influences future utility bills through the approval of rate hikes like those proposed for APS and TEP. Residents should monitor the commission's decisions, as these choices determine the costs passed on to customers for energy infrastructure.

The takeaway

Voters have the chance to reshape the regulatory body that directly oversees their monthly utility costs. Residents should evaluate candidate positions on energy investments, as these commissioners hold the power to approve or reject proposed rate increases.