IF YOU DON'T WANT A 26% RATE HIKE SPEAK UP NOW!
Mary M Zhu
Author
• Golden Gate Heights•Now
Some Congressman: This is from Rep. Josh Harder, Congressional District 9 (Stockton area). "Ahead of Vote on PG&E's Proposed Rate Hikes, Harder Demands No More Bill Increases" November 14, 2023 Dear Ms. Poppe – I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my deep frustration regarding PG&E's efforts to shift the financial burden of burying power lines onto consumers. Improving the resilience and safety of our electrical infrastructure is absolutely critical, but families should not be footing the bill for long-overdue safety upgrades and maintenance. I am constantly hearing from my constituents about the spikes in their PG&E bills, and there’s data clearly showing a 38 percent increase in electricity rates since January 2021. It goes without saying that preventing wildfires is critical, and I believe upgrades must be made to PG&E’s infrastructure. Burying power lines not only reduces the risk of wildfires and power outages but also ensures a more reliable and secure energy supply for all Californians. However, the decision to pass the cost of this $6 billion project on to consumers is just wrong. It is the responsibility of PG&E, as a major utility provider, to invest in infrastructure improvements that safeguard the well-being of Californians. The burden of financing such vital projects should not fall on the shoulders of the very people who are already struggling to make ends meet. In the face of rising energy bills, Californians simply cannot afford to take on the additional financial burden of these essential improvements. My constituents are already grappling with the high costs of living, and many are unable to pay their utility bills in full. Low-income households, elderly citizens, and our most vulnerable communities are struggling to make ends meet. I urge PG&E to prioritize the well-being of our families and reconsider your decision to shift this financial burden to consumers. Sincerely, Josh Harder Member of Congress" As a reminder, CPUC is scheduled to vote 11/16 on PGE's rate increases. As I explained in my 11/2 post, the PD plan will give us the lowest rate increase (13%) vs PGE's 26% vs APD plan that doesn't even give a rate increase. If you don't want to be price gouged, speak up now or don't complain later.