California utilities regulators are bringing down “return on equity” payments to power company shareholders. It’s the lowest profit margin in 20 years for Pacific Gas & Electric and Southern California Edison, but it will be hard to notice in your payments.
Malena Carollo / CalMatters
Posted inPolitics & Policy
They rely on landlines for emergencies. AT&T’s political moves in California could take those away
AT&T’s failed effort this year to retire copper landlines in parts of California seemed to have support from a diverse grassroots coalition. But many of the members had ties with the telecom giant, CalMatters found.
Posted inBusiness & Technology
California Supreme Court hands victory to rooftop solar panel owners
Justices told a lower court to revisit its decision to uphold cuts of 75% to payments for solar panel owners.
Posted inLatest News
Cal Fire rolled out an AI chatbot. Don’t ask it about evacuation orders
The bot that’s part of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s push to improve government efficiency with artificial intelligence fails at some basic questions about fires, CalMatters found. Cal Fire says it is working on fixes.
Posted inLatest News
Could utility gear set your neighborhood on fire? California risk maps are 8 years old
California’s Public Advocate has been pressing for new utility fire maps since 2023. Utilities are on board — but regulators turned them down.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Economists like Newsom’s plan to help control gas prices. Refiners don’t.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom wants new gas reserves to dampen seasonal price spikes. Refiners say the move would raise prices and require new storage tanks.