Arizona utility regulator weighs third rate hike in four years

Arizona Power Service is reviewing a proposed 14 percent increase in customer rates, marking its third hike within a four‑year span. The move comes as residents like Koral Casillas report monthly utility bills climbing from $1,500 in August to $1,700 the following month, highlighting growing cost pressures for households and small businesses. The Arizona Corporation Commission, which oversees water and power utilities, is also facing a contested election with Democratic challengers Clara Pratte and Jonathon Hill running against incumbents Kevin Thompson and Ralph Heap.