APS Awarded for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design

July 2, 2008

Phoenix, AZ  -   PHOENIX - Two APS locations have been recognized for their efforts to reduce their environmental impact and become more sustainable.

The APS facilities in Flagstaff and Wickenburg have received the Silver Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council under its Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) for existing buildings (EB). The LEED EB certification rates the efficiency of how existing buildings operate as well as how they are maintained.

"As a result of our analysis, we have changed our cleaning, pest control, landscaping, lighting - we now use low mercury lamps, and paint - switching to low VOC paints," said Bill Wiley, senior manager, APS Eco Efficiency and Technology Innovation Department. "The lessons and practices learned through this process are being extended to other buildings in the company and will make our other facilities more environmentally friendly and easier to certify in the future."

The service centers in Flagstaff and Wickenburg were analyzed for a comprehensive range of areas that impact sustainability including:

• Energy efficiency
• Water use
• Indoor air quality
• Transportation

To qualify for the certification, a building must be at least two years old and the owners must track more than a year of rigorous analysis, modification and documentation of a wide range of the facilities' systems, materials and operations

"The LEED EB Silver Certification is an impressive accomplishment on a number of levels," said APS Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer Ed Fox. "Achieving it required a concerted effort on the part of many people throughout the company, especially the employees at the Flagstaff and Wickenburg Service Centers.

"The practices implemented through this process enable the company to operate more efficiently, help the environment and set an example for the community in which we live and work. Bottom line, it says when it comes to sustainability APS is walking the talk."

APS, Arizona's largest and longest-serving electricity utility, serves about 1.1 million customers in 11 of the state's 15 counties. In 2008, APS won its second Edison Award in recognition of innovative leadership and operational excellence in the electric industry. Given annually by the Edison Electric Institute, the Edison Award is considered the industry's most prestigious honor. With headquarters in Phoenix, APS is the principal subsidiary of Pinnacle West Capital Corp. (NYSE: PNW)

Jenna Henry
(602) 250-4403 or (602) 689-0289