Renewable Energy Proponents Win Control of Phoenix Area Utility Board

Proponents of renewable energy have secured control of the Salt River Project (SRP) governing board, marking the first time that clean energy advocates will oversee the policymaking of the utility serving the Phoenix metropolitan area.

The Salt River Project is one of the largest public power utilities in the United States, providing electricity to more than 1 million customers in the fast-growing Phoenix region. Because of its scale, the board’s decisions are expected to significantly influence the pace of emissions reductions and the adoption of renewable energy across the area.

Board Composition and Election Results

The election for more than 40 positions in the Association and the District took place on April 7, 2026. Preliminary, unofficial results released on April 8, 2026, indicate that candidates advocating for renewable energy won five seats on the 14-member SRP district board.

These five new seats, combined with three incumbents already in place, provide the pro-renewable slate with an 8-6 majority on the board. This majority allows the group to shape the utility’s energy policies and direct its long-term strategic goals.

While the renewable energy advocates gained the board majority, the results were split regarding leadership positions. Candidates backed by Turning Point USA won the presidency and vice presidency of the organization.

National Influence and Voter Turnout

The race was described as unusually contentious, drawing significant attention and financial resources from national groups on both sides of the energy policy debate. Turning Point Action made the local race a priority, investing heavily in an effort to defeat green energy projects and establish a voter base ahead of the upcoming general election.

This national involvement coincided with a surge in local participation. Jennifer Schuricht, a media representative for SRP, stated that the utility saw an increased interest in the elections this year. According to Schuricht, SRP sent out 56,000 early ballot requests for the district and 56,000 early ballots for the water side.

Policy Goals and Future Implementation

The winning clean energy team campaigned on a platform of accelerating the utility’s transition away from fossil fuels. Their policy agenda focuses on increasing the utility’s reliance on solar, wind, and other renewable energy sources to transform the current energy mix.

This election is a clear mandate from our customers to accelerate our shift to clean, renewable energy sources.

John Smith, Newly elected board member, Salt River Project

The newly elected board members are scheduled to take office in May 2026. Once seated, the team will begin implementing the policy agenda aimed at shifting the utility’s infrastructure and energy procurement toward renewable sources.