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Consumer Watchdog

Energy

Energy and utility watchdog coverage — gas prices, oil-industry profits, utility rates, and clean-energy accountability.
State sells surplus electricity at a loss

State sells surplus electricity at a loss

<h3>BUY HIGH, SELL LOW: $14 million deficit</h3><p class="source">The San Francisco Chronicle</p> <p>California has lost $14 million during the past three weeks selling surplus electricity back to power generators as mild temperatures and energy conservation slackened demand statewide.</p>
Power scramble feels like deja vu

Power scramble feels like deja vu

<h3>Many fear a special session to fix deregulation will repeat '96 disaster that created it.</h3><p class="source">The Orange County Register</p> <p>The frenzy and confusion in the Legislature surrounding a multibillion-dollar bailout for Southern California Edison reminds veteran lawmakers, staff and lobbyists of the 1996 battle over deregulation</p>
Edison May Avert Bankruptcy Filing

Edison May Avert Bankruptcy Filing

<h3>Thanks to a rate increase and natural gas price drop, the utility's improved cash flow may cover its electricity costs.</h3><p class="source">Los Angeles Times</p> <p>For the first time in months, Southern California Edison is collecting more money than it is spending on electricity, a shift that could enable the utility to avoid bankruptcy</p>
PUC May Cede Control Over Electricity Rates

PUC May Cede Control Over Electricity Rates

<h3>Chief says letting the state water agency set prices would ensure that ratepayers cover costs. Others say plan would leave public unprotected.</h3><p class="source">Los Angeles Times</p> <p>California's chief utility regulator proposed Wednesday to provide rubber-stamp approvals of any future electricity rate increases that state power buyers find necessary.</p>