Phoenix City Council Unanimously Approves Energy Access Plan

The City of Phoenix Office of Sustainability presented its 2025 Energy Access Plan (EAP) to the Phoenix City Council during the December 9, 2025 Policy Session, marking a significant milestone in the City’s ongoing efforts to improve energy affordability, advance climate goals, and strengthen community resilience. The Phoenix City Council unanimously approved the plan with an 8-0 vote.

Earlier this year, the Phoenix City Council adopted a target to increase household participation in low-income energy assistance programs by 25% to reduce energy burden within the City of Phoenix by 2030 (Resolution 22273).  The City of Phoenix Office of Sustainability presented its 2025 Energy Access Plan (EAP) to the Phoenix City Council during Tuesday’s Policy Session. Following the presentation, the Phoenix City Council officially approved the actions outlined in the Energy Access Plan. The plan outlines strategies to reduce high energy burden across the city and improve energy affordability for households most affected by extreme heat and rising utility costs. 

"As communities across the country grapple with rapidly evolving industries and increasing energy demands, Phoenix is committed to protecting our communities and preparing for a sustainable future,” Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said. "Together, we are working to ensure that every household—no matter their income level—can access the affordable, sustainable energy needed to thrive.” 

“The Energy Access Plan represents a proactive and community-centered approach to ensuring that every Phoenix household has access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy,” said Carla De La Chapa, Chief Sustainability Officer. “This initiative aligns our climate action priorities with the needs of our residents who are most impacted by rising high housing costs, high energy bills, and the increasing demands of extreme heat.” 

Community-Driven Planning

Development of the EAP was informed by extensive community engagement in early and mid-2025. The Office of Sustainability hosted 10 workshops across Phoenix—reaching 193 participants—including Spanish-language sessions, youth-focused discussions, Climate Action Plan workshops, and meetings at community centers in multiple districts. 

2030 Target to Increase Program Participation

The strategies outlined in the EAP are designed to support this goal by expanding outreach, improving program accessibility, and enhancing support for energy efficiency upgrades. 

Aligned with Climate and Equity Goals

The Energy Access Plan complements the City’s broader climate commitments, including goals to cut greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. The plan aligns with the

Phoenix Climate Action Plan, the City’s involvement in C40 Cities, and UN Sustainable Development Goal 7, which focuses on ensuring access to affordable and clean energy. 

“As temperatures rise and energy needs grow, addressing energy burden is both a public health and affordability is a priority,” said Carlos Aguiar Hernández, Energy Manager. “The EAP provides clear, actionable solutions that empower families and support a healthier, more resilient Phoenix.” 

Addressing Rising Heat and Household Needs

Extreme heat remains one of Phoenix’s greatest challenges, increasing energy demand and placing additional stress on households already struggling with high energy bills. The EAP identifies several strategies to reduce energy burden, including expanding energy education, improving access to utility assistance programs, and supporting weatherization and home efficiency improvements. 

Next Steps

Following the Policy Session, staff will incorporate Council feedback and finalize documents for public release. Implementation will include continued collaboration with community partners, utility providers, and residents across Phoenix. 

More information about the Energy Access Plan is available at Phoenix.gov/Sustainability/EAP