During the recent storm-caused power outages, I got several recorded phone calls from Pathetic Gas & Electric Company. The PG&E robot would say my power was out, which I already knew because I was standing in the dark. The recordings never said specifically what was wrong or when it would be over. Then it would call again after the power came back on to inform me that power had been restored, which I already knew because my lights were back on. Duh. Perhaps PG&E should call with actual useful information, or not call at all.
It's time for public ownership of public utilities like PG&E.
JOHN MAYBURY
Editor and Publisher, Riptide
Why are the costs of gas and electric 25%-35% cheaper from Sacramento MUD than from PGE???
Posted by: Big Banker | January 28, 2023 at 09:30 AM
Frankly, I agree, Carl. I've seen very little evidence that government institutions operate any better than private entities. Corruption and ineptitude are rampant in both. Laws, regulations, policies, etc. are set with no plan for implementation, operation, and enforcement. No oversight. Pretty sad state of affairs.
Posted by: Sharon | January 23, 2023 at 07:19 PM
John,
As long as big money can "buy" government, how do you see the situation becoming any better than the current one under which PG&E is supposed to be regulated by the PUC? Yes, the phone calls we got from PG&E in Moss Beach were little more than robotized, tone deaf, and annoying PR, but let's not forget the failure of government to implement such common-sense requirements as no trees tall enough to shed branches or fall on power and communication lines in our naturally treeless area.
Carl May
Posted by: Carl May | January 23, 2023 at 12:31 PM
"It's time for public ownership of public utilities like PG&E."
Great idea. Let's do it.
Posted by: Jay Bird | January 22, 2023 at 06:59 PM