Energy

The Coming Showdown at the Ballot Box

August 21, 2001  ·  Harvey Rosenfield

<!-- excerpt --><p>The Showdown isn't inevitable: sensible lawmakers (or those merely concerned about self-preservation) will vote against any bailout that requires residential and small business ratepayers to pay one more penny to rescue the utilities' executives and shareholders from their irresponsible and reckless conduct. They will also support SB 2X 18, Senate President John Burton's bill to ensure that energy deals are open to public scrutiny and regulatory oversight, as the state constitution requires. But if worst comes to worst -- we're ready. Buckle your seat belts.</p>

Bailout Watch #68 – Aug 21, 2001

August 21, 2001  ·  Consumer Watchdog

<strong>BAILOUT WATCH: Keeping an eye on the energy industry and the politicians<br/> <br/> Bailout Watch #68 - Aug 21, 2001<br/> <br/> Back in the Sac. </strong>With three weeks left in this year's legislative session, we've entered the...

The Coming Showdown at the Ballot Box

August 21, 2001  ·  Harvey Rosenfield

<!-- excerpt --><p>One fundamental rule about Sacramento lawmaking that has not changed it's the power of the special interests. That's why we at FTCR are in the final stages of preparing for the Mother of All Ballot Wars next year.</p>

Consumer advocates vow initiative if Edison bailed out

August 21, 2001  ·  Consumer Watchdog

<p class="source">The Associated Press</p> <p>A vocal consumers rights group has teamed up with a consultant from the successful 1978 property tax revolt initiative to try to roll back any bailout of electric utilities approved by the state Legislature.</p>

Bailout Watch #67 – Aug 17, 2001

August 17, 2001  ·  Consumer Watchdog

<strong>BAILOUT WATCH: Keeping an eye on the energy industry and the politicians<br/> <br/> Bailout Watch #67 - Aug 17, 2001<br/> <br/> From Regulator to Regulated in two easy steps.</strong> First, use your high-power government job to allow...

More than ever is spent on lobbying

August 17, 2001  ·  Consumer Watchdog

<p class="source">Sacramento Bee</p> <p>A record $344 million was spent to influence California lawmakers and regulatory agencies during the two-year legislative session ending Dec. 31, according to a report issued Thursday.</p>

Bailout Watch #66 – Aug 15, 2001

August 15, 2001  ·  Consumer Watchdog

<strong>BAILOUT WATCH: Keeping an eye on the energy industry and the politicians<br/> <br/> Bailout Watch #66 - Aug 15, 2001<br/> <br/> All Quid no Quo.</strong> For months, Governor Davis has assured Californians that he is not pursuing a...

Edison Hangs Hopes on Sacramento

August 15, 2001  ·  Consumer Watchdog

<h3>Execs say debt load can't be eased without legislative help. A deadline passes without action.</h3><p class="source">Los Angeles Times</p> <p>Legislative action in the next month probably will determine whether Southern California Edison escapes filing for bankruptcy, executives at the troubled electric utility said Tuesday.</p>

Davis reveals makeup of Power Authority

August 14, 2001  ·  Consumer Watchdog

<p class="source">The San Francisco Chronicle</p> <p>Gov. Gray Davis drew yesterday from his own inner circle and the business world to create a public Power Authority that takes control this week over California's energy future.</p>

State Power Authority takes first step

August 12, 2001  ·  Consumer Watchdog

<p class="source">The San Francisco Chronicle</p> <p>California enters undiscovered territory this week with the launch of a new Power Authority that will have unprecedented control over the state's energy system.</p>

Chaos, Inexperience Hobbled Power Buyers

August 12, 2001  ·  Consumer Watchdog

<h3>State electricity purchasers often finished second against veteran industry traders.</h3><p class="source">Los Angeles Times</p> <p>It was the night before the darkest day of the winter energy crisis, when California's first wave of rolling blackouts paralyzed cities from Bakersfield to Eureka.</p>

Californians Ponder Power Officials’ Ethics During Energy Crisis

August 11, 2001  ·  Consumer Watchdog

<p class="source">San Jose Mercury News</p> <p>Californians who suspect they have been victimized by profiteering energy companies have something new to ponder.</p>