Energy Regulators to Vote on PG&E Price Hike Request

Source: ABC 10 |  By Gurajpal Sangha

The California Public Utilities Commission (CUPC) could decide Thursday whether PG&E customers have to pay higher prices. Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) is requesting a double-digit rate increase that could start as soon as Jan. 1, 2024, if approved.

Mark Toney says PG&E needs to achieve safety in the most cost-effective manner. “Electricity is a necessity, not a luxury,” said Mark Toney, executive director of The Utility Reform Network. “We are captive customers of PG&E.” Toney says PG&E needs to achieve safety in the most cost-effective manner. He said the price hikes should be capped and limited by the cost-of-living adjustment that social security recipients get. “The California Public Utilities Commission needs to do more,” said Toney. “They need to prioritize the affordability for everyday customers and not let PG&E empty their customer pockets.” Toney says as more people get their power shut off because they cannot afford the price hike, that is a leading contributor to people being evicted.