October 14, 2013

New California Law Gives PUC Leeway to Restructure Utility Rates

Gov. Jerry Brown has signed a bill to promote greater use of renewable energy in California while allowing for changes in how consumers pay for electricity.
    
The Democratic governor said in a signing message Monday that AB 327 will provide "comprehensive rate reform."
    
It authorizes the California Public Utilities Commission to restructure electricity rates while protecting low-income users and encouraging use of renewable energy. The bill's impact on the majority of ratepayers is unclear.
    
Democratic Assemblyman Henry Perea of Fresno previously said his bill would let California replace outdated regulations adopted during the state's energy crisis more than a decade ago.
    
The bill also makes it clear that California's goal of obtaining a third of its electricity from renewable sources by 2020 is a minimal requirement and not an upper limit.

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