The Southern California Gas Company has announced its plans to increase its rates next year!
SoCalGas is asking the Public Utilities Commission for permission to collect another $4.7 billion in revenue for 2024 through 2027. The request comes as many have seen their January natural gas bill increase double to quadruple from the same time last year.
This is unacceptable and unsustainable for families already suffering from record inflation.
WHAT ARE THE NEXT STEPS TOWARD A PRICE INCREASE?
– In May, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) will hold a proceeding to determine if SoCalGas’ application for a price hike is warranted.
– This proceeding, which will also include public input, will determine the total amount SoCalGas is authorized to collect from customers in 2024-27.
– Rates are ultimately determined by the CPUC.
– If approved, the typical residential SoCalGas bill would rise by 13.2% a month, or $8.28, compared to 2023.
– However, these increases aim to cover fixed costs — the infrastructure that gets gas to your home — and not the cost of natural gas itself, which this winter has proven, can increase exponentially.
– The application also asks for additional increases through 2027.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
– The CPUC will hold two virtual forums at which SoCalGas customers can offer input and feedback on March 6 and 15.
– The CPUC is also taking virtual public comments on its website. Click here to submit your comment.
I encourage you to BOTH attend the virtual forms and submit your testimony to the CPUC.
WHAT IS OUR OFFICE DOING TO FIGHT HIGH PRICES?
Earlier this month, our office demanded the State Legislature audit the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) over soaring natural gas prices.
At the hearing the CPUC must answer the following questions:
- What are the causes of the winter natural gas price spike?
- What additional actions could the CPUC take to lower prices this winter?
- What steps could the CPUC take to avoid future spikes?
Once a date for the audit hearing has been set, my office will share it with you.