PG&E (US:PCG) Prnewswireยท2025-05-15 21:44Core Viewpoint - PG&E proposed its 2027-2030 General Rate Case (GRC) to California regulators, aiming for the smallest percentage increase in a decade while enhancing safety and reliability for customers [1][2]. Group 1: Rate Proposal and Customer Impact - PG&E's GRC proposal includes a maximum bill increase of 3.6% in 2027, but total residential combined gas and electric bills are expected to remain flat compared to 2025 [6]. - The company forecasts that residential electric rates and average combined bills will be lower in 2026 due to the expiration of cost recovery currently included in rates [4]. - If the proposal is fully approved, PG&E anticipates that total residential combined bills will be flat in 2027, with potential decreases if electric demand rises [3][6]. Group 2: Cost Management and Savings - PG&E has reduced operating and capital costs by approximately $2.5 billion over the past three years, enabling the proposed small percentage increase [2]. - The company aims to stabilize customer bills through 2030, with additional savings expected from a $15 billion Department of Energy loan guarantee, which could save customers $1 billion over the loan's life [7]. Group 3: Infrastructure Improvements and Safety Enhancements - PG&E's proposal includes modernizing the grid to accommodate growth in electricity demand from new homes, businesses, and electric vehicles, targeting 3 million EVs by 2030 [9]. - The company plans to enhance wildfire safety by replacing 760 miles of powerlines and placing 307 miles underground in high-risk areas, reducing risk by 98% [9]. - Investments will also be made in lower-cost solar and battery energy storage, microgrids, and modernizing existing hydroelectric plants to improve reliability and safety [12].