SDG&E customers sound off about potential rate hikes

Source: CBS8 |  By Keristen Holmes

SAN DIEGO — SDG&E customers are speaking out about a plan to raise electricity and gas bill rates. 

The California Public Utilities Commission held two public hearings about the proposed rate hike from SDG&E. The hearings took place at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. at the Sherman Heights Community Center. If the rate increase is approved, it would be a part of SDG&E’s proposed 2024-2027 budget.

Constance Slider Pierre is the Organizing Director at Turn, The Utility Reform Network. They’re a statewide group that works with community-based organizations and leaders to keep utilities like energy, gas and phone bills affordable in California. 

Slider-Pierre said people should come and speak out at the CPUC public hearings and let their voices be heard. "They're the regulatory body that is supposed to take in the public's interest in a for-profit company. Companies that are for-profit and unchecked are going to do exactly what San Diego Gas and Electric is proposing - which is to make more profit. Ratepayers are struggling. People can't make the bills,” Slider Pierre said.