Poder Latinx Outlines Voter Education and Canvassing Strategy Ahead of Critical SRP Board Election

Organization highlights energy affordability, extreme heat, and civic participation for Arizona families

Phoenix, AZ — With Arizona families facing rising utility bills and intensifying summer heat, Poder Latinx announced today its voter education and canvassing strategy ahead of the Salt River Project (SRP) Board Election in April, one of the most consequential and least participated-in utility elections in the state.

The Salt River Project is Arizona’s second-largest public utility, serving more than one million people across the Phoenix metro area and beyond. Every two years, SRP ratepayers elect board members who make critical decisions about energy rates, infrastructure, and clean energy investments.

“For Latino and working families, this election isn’t abstract — it’s about whether our lights stay on without breaking the bank,” said Yadira Sánchez, Executive Director of Poder Latinx. “When decisions about our energy are made without us, families pay the price. Poder Latinx is stepping in to change that by meeting people where they are, educating ratepayers, and helping communities claim real power over the systems they depend on every day.”

During the briefing, Poder Latinx detailed how early ballots for the SRP election will be mailed on March 11, with a March 27 deadline to request ballots and Election Day on April 7. With more than 750,000 eligible voters, the election has the potential to shape Arizona’s energy future — yet turnout has historically remained low.

Speakers also highlighted structural barriers to participation. Only SRP ratepayers who are homeowners or landowners are eligible to vote, excluding many renters and condominium residents. There is also only one in-person voting location, despite SRP spanning Maricopa and Pinal counties.

Although voting by mail is available, many ratepayers remain unaware the election exists or how to participate. The process differs from typical elections: voters cast ballots for both District and Association boards and councils, and voting power is weighted by acreage, giving greater influence to large property holders.

That is why Poder Latinx is prioritizing voter education and direct outreach to ensure SRP ratepayers understand the election, key deadlines, and how to participate.

“Energy affordability, reliability, and accountability start with participation,” Sánchez added. “When communities understand their power, they can help shape an energy system that works for everyone, especially during extreme heat and rising costs.”

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