California Regulators Increase Fixed Monthly Charges for Utility Customers

For most households, the charge will rise to $24 from about $10. One official says the hike will ‘help propel us toward our decarbonization goals.’

A Southern California Edison crew installs a new overhead switch for circuit reliability in Ventura, Calif., on May 13, 2020. Brent Stirton/Getty Images

The California Public Utility Commission approved a proposal on May 9 to raise fixed charges for most electricity customers to $24.15 per month, with lower charges for those enrolled in programs for low-income residents.

Customers of the state’s largest investor-owned utilities—including Pacific Gas and Electric, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas and Electric—will be affected by the change starting in 2025 and 2026, depending on the utility provider.