Mark Thompson Live Show Interview

Source: KGO San Francisco  |  By Mark Thompson

“With us live we have Lee Trotman, Communications Director at The Utility Reform Network or TURN as they are called.  Lee, can you help explain California’s skyrocketing electricity rates?  Seems like they are constant and customers are really frustrated.  And why hasn’t the Governor or CPUC received more blowback since they are supposed to regulate these utilities?”

 “Mark, you are correct that the governor appointed the CPUC commissioners and that the CPUC is ultimately responsible for approving rate increases.  One of the reasons why they haven’t received more blowback from increased rates is that customers blame the utilities but aren’t aware that the CPUC has plenty of say in approving rates.  And with unlimited rate increases from utilities constantly asking for more money, there needs to be common sense legislation like capping rate increases, shifting wildfire efforts away from ratepayers, and exploring public financing options that reduce the utilities rate of return on investments and shareholder profits.  Also, supporting bills like Senator Josh Becker’s SB 254 will go a long way in achieving short and long term rate decreases and all of this information can be found on TURN.org’s website in the Campaign For Affordable Power section.”