California regulators are scheduled to vote to allow the utility company to recoup electricity expenses paid during a series of winter storms, which caused power outages.
SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) — Your PG&E bill could jump another $6 per month before the end of the year.
The price of natural gas rose in September, about $5.78 more on an average PG&E bill. The utility says a decrease in demand for gas is the reason.
For months, utility watchdogs have been calling for fair utility rates but next week, the California Public Utilities Commission could grant PG&E yet another electricity rate increase of 2.7% about $6 more on an average bill.
“There are no limits to how much the Public Utilities Commission can grant in hikes, that’s why TURN has been fighting for a cap on increases no more than the cost of living adjustment, provided by social security,” said Mark Toney, Executive Director for TURN.
TURN, The Utility Reform Network says, PG&E has been granted too many hikes this year alone.
“We’re looking at the fourth rate hike in 2024 alone, and every rate hike is like the tip of the iceberg, every hike stacks on top, that’s why people are so angry,” said Toney.
PG&E says the rate increase is needed to recoup electricity expenses paid during winter storms which brought widespread power outages.
According to PG&E data, residential utility rates have increased 54% since 2020, when the utility exited bankruptcy.
“Anytime there’s an increase in the cost of living, it will disproportionally impact our communities of color, low-income, elderly communities,” said Erin Hawkins with Community Action Marin.
Hawkins says Community Action Marin is concerned about another proposed PG&E rate hike, the nonprofit connects individuals and families with services and utility payment assistance.
In 2024 alone, more than 500 people have been helped.
“We will always be here to support those communities any way we can,” said Hawkins.
PG&E declined ABC7’s request for an interview but sent this statement.
PG&E is working to limit combined gas and electric bill increases to no more than an average of 3% per year through 2026. PG&E has adopted company-wide savings initiatives to reduce operating costs and limit unnecessary expenses.
“You can’t put all expenses on everyday customers, it’s not right,” said Toney.
The CPUC is scheduled to vote on the increase on Sept. 12.