Two weeks ago, RCRC noted that the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) was soliciting comments on a stakeholder-proposal to impose a new fixed charge on electrical customers living in high fire threat districts.  On June 9th, the CPUC issued a new ruling rescinding the May 20th version.   

In its new ruling, CPUC Commissioner Houck noted that the previous ruling may have been premature and is instead seeking comments on how to maximize public outreach and engagement in a series of Listening Sessions held throughout the state.  Those Listening Sessions are intended to vet a host of energy affordability issues throughout Fall/Winter 2022.  Comments to the CPUC on how to conduct and where to hold the listening sessions are due by July 31, 2022. 

RCRC will provide comments strongly encouraging the CPUC to hold in-person and digital meetings throughout rural California counties to ensure rural voices are heard on affordability issues and how they interact with reliability and safety.  RCRC will also provide extensive comments, at the appropriate time, pushing back on the stakeholder high fire risk area surcharge concept. 

Public comments can be submitted on the “Public Comment” tab of the proceeding’s docket page. Please contact John Kennedy, RCRC Policy Advocate, with any questions or comments, and to learn how to engage.