Issues
Read below to learn about current and critical utility issues in California. You can also visit the individual sections (at right) to learn more about what's new in each area.
Energy
For 35 years, TURN has stood up to California’s giant utility companies, savings California consumers billions of dollars by challenging unfair rate hikes and other unjust utility schemes. TURN fights for affordable and reliable energy at the Public Utilities Commission, in the courts, in the legislature and in the streets, where we join local communities and organizations in standing up for consumer rights and protesting unfair policies and practices. Read more below and join us in stopping unfair utility rate hikes.
PG&E customers feel sticker shock from rising rates
by Tim Sheehan, Fresno Bee
February 7th, 2010
by Tim Sheehan, Fresno Bee
February 7th, 2010
TURN tells the Fresno Bee that energy bills are high because PG&E keeps raising the rates, and the PUC keeps letting them do it.
Late-paying power customers given leniency
by John Cox, Bakersfield Californian
February 4th, 2010
by John Cox, Bakersfield Californian
February 4th, 2010
TURN tells the Bakersfield Californian that utilities should work to help keep the power on, not shut off more and more families in need.
Green Matters
TURN is unique in combining the concerns of planet and pocketbook to make sure you get the most green for the least green. TURN demands effective, low-cost energy efficiency programs that will help you conserve energy and lower your bills. TURN has fought to bring more renewable energy into California, energy that fulfills the true promise of renewables by being clean, green and affordable. At the same time, TURN exposes and opposes utility greenwashing of expensive and ineffective schemes. Read more below, and join us in fighting a warming planet and rising electric bills at the same time.
Paying Extra for Green Power, and Getting Ads Instead
by Kate Galbraith, New York Times
November 17th, 2009
by Kate Galbraith, New York Times
November 17th, 2009
TURN energy attorney Matt Freedman tells the New York Times that 'green power' payments do little to promote renewable energy.
Smart consumers trump smart technology
by Mark Toney, San Francisco Chronicle
October 25th, 2009
by Mark Toney, San Francisco Chronicle
October 25th, 2009
Mark Toney writes in the San Francisco Chronicle that conservation and energy efficiency will save more energy than expensive, unproven smart meters.
Telecom
Phones are essential to modern life, and everyone should be able to afford them. But with phone deregulation leaving corporate greed unchecked, consumers are increasingly at risk for rising prices and deteriorating services. TURN holds phone companies accountable, demanding reasonable rates and real options for customers, and opposing attempts to limit their rights or compromise their safety or privacy. TURN works with low- income communities to keep LifeLine phone service affordable and accessible for all of the Californians who need it. Read more below, and join us in fighting for affordable phone service for all.
California’s Poorest Protest Lifeline Changes
Report and video clip of recent CPUC meetings on proposed changes to the LifeLine Program.
NEW! Freedom From Telemarketers—It’s Easier Than Ever Before!
Over 157 million consumers depend on the Do-Not-Call list to keep annoying telemarketers away. Those consumers can now enjoy more freedom from telemarketers than before. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which administers the list, has announced it will be extended indefinitely.
Legislation
In addition to or advocacy work at the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), TURN works to enact legislation that guarantees lower bills and livable planet.
Peevey confirmed as California PUC President
by Mark Matthews, KGO-TV Channel 7 News
December 16th, 2009
by Mark Matthews, KGO-TV Channel 7 News
December 16th, 2009
VIDEO: TURN lawyer Bob Finkelstein talks to ABC news about the corporate-friendly climate of the CPUC, and Mark Toney testifies before the Senate Rules Committee.
Legislative Update: Fall 2009
TURN sponsored legislation, the Ratepayer Protection Act (SB 695) was signed into law by the Governor in October.












