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The Arizona Corporation Commission has cut the budget that allows the state's utilities to offer energy savings programs to electric customers. Regulators say the program has run its course, but critics say the move will mean higher rates for electric customers.

Arizona utility companies typically offer customers things they can use to save power in their homes.

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Arizona PIRG Education Fund Executive Director Diane Brown said the long-standing program, among the strongest in the nation, will mean customers have fewer options to save money on their electric bills.

"Such as weatherization, light bulbs, electric vehicle charging at key times of the day," said Brown, "which help incentivize ratepayers to utilize the programs and save money."

Supporters of the commission's move to cut the Arizona program's budget by more than half have a long history of opposing any energy efficiency standard in the state.

Despite recent public testimony from businesses, faith-based leaders and consumers statewide, Brown said the commission cut the energy efficiency program for the state's largest utility from $90 million to $40 million.

"Which means more ratepayers," said Brown, "are likely to have higher bills in the future."

Brown said Arizona ratepayers have saved at least $1.75 billion through energy efficiency programs in their 15-year history.