Arizona Public Service continues to make a business case for solar energy after the recent explosion at one of its large batteries – and that’s a good thing.

The explosion in Surprise is most unfortunate. But it’s a relief to know that the eight firefighters and a police officer who were injured are going to be OK.

Arizonans should also be pleased that APS has made an unwavering commitment to continue the multiyear investment in its solar footprint.

“This hasn’t changed our determination to move forward on that,” APS President Jeff Guldner told The Arizona Republic. “It is very important we conduct this investigation and understand how we can safely operate this equipment. This is where the industry is going. What is happening here in Arizona … we are at the leading edge on some of these technologies.”

Company officials are still investigating the incident that prompted them to shut down two other batteries installed to capture and store surplus energy. APS earlier this year announced a $1 billion investment in dozens of house-size batteries to store up to 850 megawatts in solar batteries by 2025. That would be enough to power about 212,500 homes for three to four hours.

There's a strong business case for solar

Renewable energy isn’t just a feel-good thing. It’s one of the cheapest forms of power right now – if only the industry can crack the nut of how to store what it produces after the sun goes down. Huge batteries allow APS to store solar energy during the day when the sun shines and discharge it in the evening when customers need it most.

The recent explosion shows storing energy isn’t an easy task, but such incidents are relatively rare. A Flagstaff battery fire and another in 2012 in Hawaii are the only incidents in the U.S. involving utility-scale batteries, The Republic reported.

The Arizona Corporation Commission, which regulates APS, must remain vigilant over safety as the industry expands the state’s solar footprint. Commissioners already are asking the right questions about the recent explosion. APS officials also have said they’re committed to get to the bottom of it and to move forward with providing more solar energy.

Let’s hope APS’s commitment of increasing its solar footprint doesn’t change. Let’s not forget: Renewable energy isn’t just a feel-good thing.

Elvia Díaz is an editorial columnist for The Republic and azcentral. Reach her at 602-444-8606 or elvia.diaz@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on Twitter, @elviadiaz1.