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Public Utilities Commission

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California strikes deal on data-center energy rules to curb grid costs
politics5 days ago

California strikes deal on data-center energy rules to curb grid costs

California lawmakers reached a compromise on two bills to regulate data-center electricity use, directing the CPUC to craft special rates and require funding for grid upgrades and wildfire mitigation. The move aims to prevent data-center costs from being passed to other customers and to support clean energy goals, but faces objections from tech companies worried about higher costs and from communities concerned about water use, noise and utility bills as data centers expand across the state.

via Los Angeles Times|
#california#data-centers#energy-regulation
NH residents brace for higher electric bills as new pricing rules take effect
business1 month ago

NH residents brace for higher electric bills as new pricing rules take effect

New Hampshire’s Public Utilities Commission approved rate increases from Liberty, Unitil, Eversource, and the Community Power Coalition of NH, meaning most residents will see about $6 to $18 more per month starting Aug. 1 as the supply rate—the cost of electricity itself—rises under a new pricing mechanism that splits purchases between a fixed price and the ISO‑NE daily spot market. The change, driven by a harsh winter, Middle East tensions, and regulators’ attempt to better reflect wholesale costs, requires utilities to recoup prior forecast shortfalls. Critics warn the spot-market component adds price volatility for consumers, while CPCNH members may pay more or less depending on territory; in Unitil and Eversource areas, monthly boosts for coalition members are around $6.11 to $6.47. Consumers can explore other energy suppliers, underscoring ongoing volatility in New Hampshire’s electricity prices.

via New Hampshire Public Radio|
#business#community-power-coalition-of-new-hampshire#electricity-prices
"California's New Rules Threaten Community Solar Initiatives"
environment2 years ago

"California's New Rules Threaten Community Solar Initiatives"

California Governor Gavin Newsom's appointees on the Public Utilities Commission voted to approve a solar energy program that critics argue will hinder access to community solar projects, a middle ground solution between rooftop systems and large solar farms. The decision has sparked criticism from environmentalists and advocates who believe it will fail to promote new projects and is inconsistent with the state's climate goals. Despite Newsom's strong climate record, this move has raised concerns about the state's ability to meet its renewable energy targets cost-effectively.

via Los Angeles Times|
#california#climate-change#community-solar
Former Ohio Utility Chair Sam Randazzo Dies by Suicide While Facing Bribery Charges
legalcrime2 years ago

Former Ohio Utility Chair Sam Randazzo Dies by Suicide While Facing Bribery Charges

Sam Randazzo, former chair of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, has died by suicide amidst state and federal charges related to a utility scandal involving alleged bribery and misconduct with Akron-based FirstEnergy. The scandal involved over $60 million in bribes paid by FirstEnergy in exchange for a $1.3 billion ratepayer bailout. Randazzo, who was also an energy consultant, was accused of secretly receiving payments from FirstEnergy while serving as a regulator and helping draft bailout legislation. His death comes after other figures involved in the scandal have faced legal consequences, including former House Speaker Larry Householder and lobbyist Neil Clark.

via Ohio Capital Journal|
#bribery-scandal#energy-consultant#legalcrime
"CPUC's Proposal: Changing California Power Bills for Lowered Costs"
energy2 years ago

"CPUC's Proposal: Changing California Power Bills for Lowered Costs"

The California Public Utilities Commission is considering a proposal to reduce electricity rates for customers across the state, with most customers paying a flat charge of about $24 and seeing a decrease in electricity rates by five to seven cents per kilowatt hour. The new billing structure aims to distribute fixed costs more evenly among customers and encourage conservation, particularly among low-income customers. Reactions to the proposal are mixed, with some expressing cautious optimism while others anticipate ongoing affordability issues. If adopted, the changes would be implemented by late next year.

via FOX 5 San Diego|
#affordability#california#electricity-rates
"Former FirstEnergy Executives Plead Not Guilty in $60 Million Ohio Bribery Scandal Indictment"
legalcrime2 years ago

"Former FirstEnergy Executives Plead Not Guilty in $60 Million Ohio Bribery Scandal Indictment"

Two former FirstEnergy executives and the former chairman of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio pleaded not guilty to corruption and bribery charges. The charges stem from their alleged involvement in a scheme to benefit FirstEnergy and themselves by hijacking Ohio’s regulatory structure. The former chairman will have a GPS ankle bracelet and travel restrictions, while the former executives face a dozen charges each. The scandal involves a $61 million bribe for a $1 billion bailout legislation, and despite extensive coverage and convictions, efforts to repeal the legislation and implement ethics laws have not progressed.

via News 5 Cleveland WEWS|
#bribery#corruption#firstenergy
The Future of Landlines: Phone Service Providers Push for Phase-Out
technology2 years ago

The Future of Landlines: Phone Service Providers Push for Phase-Out

AT&T is seeking to shut down landline service in most of the Bay Area and much of California, sparking fear among residents, especially those in areas with spotty cell service and frequent power outages. The proposal has received widespread opposition, with concerns raised about the potential life-threatening consequences, especially during emergencies such as fires and natural disasters. AT&T argues that landline service is no longer necessary and that it hinders the company's ability to invest in new technologies, but many residents and officials disagree, emphasizing the vital role of landlines in ensuring reliable communication during crises. The California Public Utilities Commission will have the final say on the matter.

via The Mercury News|
#atandt#california#landline-service
"California Lawmakers Push to Halt Proposed Income-Based Electricity Rates"
politics2 years ago

"California Lawmakers Push to Halt Proposed Income-Based Electricity Rates"

Democratic lawmakers in California are seeking to reverse a rule that mandates major utility companies to set electricity and gas rates based on customer income rather than energy use, a rule they helped pass in 2022. The legislation, part of a budget trailer bill, has faced criticism for lack of public discussion. Lawmakers representing coastal districts have filed a bill to repeal parts of the rule, citing concerns about increased costs and privacy issues. The California Public Utilities Commission is still analyzing rate design proposals, with potential impacts of up to $125 a month for some customers. The move is seen as critical for California's climate goals, but there are concerns about its impact on low-income communities.

via KCRA Sacramento|
#california#democratic-lawmakers#electricity-rates
California's Rooftop Solar Industry Faces Impending Collapse
energy-policy2 years ago

California's Rooftop Solar Industry Faces Impending Collapse

California's Public Utilities Commission slashed the rate that utilities pay homeowners with new solar panels, causing a 90% decline in residential solar demand since the new rate took effect. This has led to layoffs and closures in the solar industry, impacting low- and middle-income homeowners and jeopardizing the state's climate change goals. The commission defended the decision as a move towards equity, but industry experts and workers argue that it has hindered the growth of the solar market and led to job losses, particularly in underserved communities.

via The San Francisco Standard|
#california#climate-change#energy-policy
"Ratepayers Face Higher Bills as Diablo Canyon Nuclear Plant Stays Open"
energy2 years ago

"Ratepayers Face Higher Bills as Diablo Canyon Nuclear Plant Stays Open"

PG&E has been granted approval by the state Public Utilities Commission to continue operating the Diablo Canyon nuclear plant until at least 2030, instead of terminating service in 2025 as previously planned. The decision has raised concerns about potential increases in monthly electricity bills for customers. The cost to keep the plant operating through 2030 is estimated to be $8.1 billion, which could result in an additional $11.75 per month for utility bills. PG&E believes the increase in bills could be modest or even result in a bill credit, but critics argue that the state regulatory agency has been too lenient in granting PG&E the authority to raise rates.

via The Mercury News|
#diablo-canyon#electricity-bills#energy
Governor DeWine Ignored Warnings Before Appointing Indicted Sam Randazzo
politics2 years ago

Governor DeWine Ignored Warnings Before Appointing Indicted Sam Randazzo

Before appointing Sam Randazzo as chairman of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, Governor Mike DeWine received two warnings, including from environmental organizations and a former campaign staffer, urging him to choose someone else. Randazzo has recently pleaded not guilty to public corruption charges, including accepting a $4.3 million bribe from FirstEnergy Corp. in exchange for promoting the company's interests.

via cleveland.com|
#corruption-charges#governor-mike-dewine#ohio
"Former Ohio Utility Regulator Indicted in $60 Million Bribery Scandal"
crime2 years ago

"Former Ohio Utility Regulator Indicted in $60 Million Bribery Scandal"

Samuel Randazzo, the former chairman of Ohio's Public Utilities Commission, has been indicted on 11 counts, including bribery, wire fraud, and making illegal monetary transactions. The charges stem from a $4.3 million payment Randazzo received from energy company FirstEnergy, which was linked to a bribery scandal involving House Bill 6, a ratepayer-funded nuclear power plant bailout. If convicted, Randazzo could face up to 20 years in prison.

via NBC4 WCMH-TV|
#bribery#corruption#crime
PG&E's Soaring Electric Bills Prompt Rate Hike Request
energy2 years ago

PG&E's Soaring Electric Bills Prompt Rate Hike Request

PG&E electric bills in the Bay Area have increased by 38% for the average residential customer over a three-year period, far outpacing the region's inflation rate of 11.7%. The rise in utility costs is attributed to higher electricity use and overall electricity prices. The state Public Utilities Commission is currently reviewing proceedings that could result in even higher bills for PG&E customers. Low-income households are particularly impacted by the rising rates and bills.

via The Mercury News|
#california#electric-bills#energy