Agreeing with opposition claims that Salt River Project failed to consider the impacts a $1B natural gas plant expansion in Coolidge would have on nearby Randolph, the Arizona Corporation Commission has rejected the utility’s request.
The existing plant has 12 quick-start generators. The expansion would have added 16 more, increasing the plant’s capacity from its current 615MW to a total of 1,435MW.
Commissioners voted 4-1 against the expansion following months of outcry and opposition from Randolph residents, who said extensive industrial development has ruined the area’s previous character and inflicted negative health impacts.
Supporters of the plant expansion, which had been approved by the Arizona Power Plant and Transmission Line Siting Committee, argued it is necessary to maintain power grid reliability and provide for future growth. (Source)