SDG&E Proposal
In response to the CPUC’s decision to reject the SDG&E proposal to increase the minimum energy bill for residential customers from $10 to $38, the minimum bill for the residents was maintained at the previous $10, which was subject to annual increment due to inflation. Additionally, the minimum bill calculation approach was changed to be based only on the distribution of charges.
If the commission sided with the SDG&E proposal, low-income residents would be adversely affected, while customers with usually lower bills would be disadvantaged. Nevertheless, the patriots who usually conserve energy would be compelled to use more energy to align with the fixed charges. On the other hand, customers with solar equipment would also be on the losing end as they generate part of the energy they normally use.
The statement in the proposed decision, “The increased minimum bill sought by SDG&E is inconsistent,” implies that there are other bills that do not align with the proposal despite that they are made by the same commission with respect to the change of the customer billing. On the other hand, “For people who are really trying to conserve electricity, to force them to pay a much higher bill, people starting figuring, ‘Well, if I have to pay this much higher bill anyway, I may as well use more electricity,’” statement is an argument made by the CPUC, which means that by increasing their bills without additional value, customers who deliberately consume less energy will increase their consumption to cover up the additional cost imposed in them.
Considering the disagreements between the CPUC and SDG&E, the later may come up with a fabricated proposal that would compel the CPUC to comply. Nevertheless, the SDG&E may refer the matter to the state, in which it will argue with reference to environmental conservation.
From the environmental scientist’s point of view, SDG&E is arguably arguing its intentions rightly. The additional cost is essential in aligning the production with the state’s clean energy policies aimed to conserve the environment. On the other hand, it is vital to encourage customers to conserve energy to reduce pollution that emanates from high usability.
Reference
Nikolewski, R. (2020, March 17). Utilities commission rejects SDG&E proposal to nearly … The Sandiego Union Tribune. www.sandiegouniontribune.com/business/energy-green/story/2020-03-17/utilities-commission-rejects-sdg-e-proposal-to-nearly-quadruple-minimum-monthly-bills.