Michael Barrio

In an op-ed for the Santa Fe New Mexican, United’s Michael Barrio makes the case for more high-efficiency electric appliances, such as heat pumps and heat pump water heaters, to keep New Mexico households cool as higher temperatures strain the grid. He also encourages state lawmakers to expand policies and utility programs that reward customers for shifting some electricity uses away from peak hours to create a more affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy system statewide.

Arizona is at a critical moment as energy demand rises rapidly. In an op-ed for the Arizona Capitol Times, United’s Michael Barrio writes that the state legislature’s current policy decisions risk undermining energy reliability and affordability, calling for a more pragmatic, forward-looking approach focused on speeding up project development, expanding transmission capacity, and diversifying the energy resource mix.

Advanced Energy United champions the New Mexico Grid Reliability through Integrated DERs (GRID) Act, introduced by Representative Hochman-Vigil, would create virtual power plants (VPPs) programs that help customers deploy their own energy technologies to support the grid, especially during times of peak demand, which will reduce costs for all New Mexicans.

Utility Dive reports that Arizona regulators voted unanimously to begin the process of repealing the Renewable Energy Standard and Tariff (REST) rules, which required electric utilities to deliver 15% renewable energy by 2025. United’s Michael Barrio criticized the decision, warning that the repeal will scare off private investment and jeapordize Arizona’s multi-billion dollar advanced energy economy.

The Arizona Republic reports on the Arizona Corporation Commission’s vote to continue the process of repealing the Renewable Energy Standard & Tariff (REST) rule and the Energy Efficiency (EE) Standards. United’s Michael Barrio said that policies like the renewables standard will reduce costs from increased demand, support jobs, and keep the state’s economy ticking.

Arizona has long been known as a business-friendly state, but inconsistent energy policies and regulatory uncertainty are putting that reputation at risk. United’s Michael Barrio authored an opinion piece for the Arizona Capitol Time urging decisionmakers to restore investor confidence and secure long-term economic growth by advancing policies that support clean energy investment and keep Arizona competitive

Albuquerque Business First reports on House Bill 93, which requires utilities to develop ‘advanced grid technology plans.’ United’s Michael Barrio explains how the bill aims to ensure the grid delivers power more affordably, efficiently, and reliably while accelerating clean energy.

House Bill 13, a bill that will modernize New Mexico’s energy distribution system, passed the House Floor

House Bill 93, a bill designed to accelerate the transition to clean energy, reduce electricity congestion, and lower costs for consumers, passes the House and now moves to Senate

New Mexico is facing an energy affordability crisis due to rising gas utility costs. The upcoming legislative session is a critical moment for the state. United’s Michael Barrio authored an opinion piece for the Albuquerque Journal urging state legislators to embrace cleaner, more efficient electric technologies, modernize the energy grid, and implement policies that will reduce costs, protect vulnerable families, and support a sustainable energy future for the state.

The Arizona Republic reports on Arizona’s recent decline in rooftop solar installations over the past year, attributed to a combination of regulatory hurdles and financial barriers. United’s Michael Barrio spoke to Arizona’s potential as a leader in solar energy adoption, emphasizing the need for stable policies that support the solar industry’s growth across the state.

Arizona Capitol Times reports that the clean energy industry may face new challenges as republicans will fill all five seats on the Arizona Corporation Commission in 2025. However, many clean energy advocates, including United’s Michael Barrio, are looking forward to new opportunities to engage with the commission on the benefits of clean energy.