CPUC Approves Harmful Rate Hikes Despite Public Opposition

 LCEA, in collaboration with Reclaim Our Power (ROP) and other partner organizations, is actively fighting against corporate greed and injustice in California’s energy system. On December 19th, just before the Christmas holiday, LCEA joined ROP and various organizations to rally outside the CPUC building in San Francisco to demand they vote against a proposed rate hike that keeps Aliso Canyon gas storage facility and Diablo Canyon Nuclear power plant open.

Despite our collective efforts, the CPUC voted to keep Aliso Canyon open indefinitely. This is a major obstacle to California's transition to clean, safe, and affordable energy. Additionally, the CPUC approved two major rate hikes with a 4-1 vote, despite 2.5 hours of public testimony overwhelmingly opposing these increases. As a result, California ratepayers will be forced to contribute an additional $723 million to keep the controversial Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant operational through 2030.

This decision highlights the systemic failures of California’s oversight of energy. For years, PG&E and other investor-owned utility companies have operated with little accountability while imposing rate hikes and ignoring public safety hazards. Diablo Canyon, a costly and dangerous nuclear facility, has already drained billions from ratepayers to cover PG&E’s financial mismanagement.

The CPUC’s approval of these rate hikes further burdens households that already struggle with rising energy costs. Meanwhile, safer and cleaner alternatives, like community solar, continue to be sidelined despite their potential to provide affordable energy to over 800,000 homes.