California’s electricity rates are on a steep upward curve. With the big three IOUs – Pacific Gas & Electric (PGE), Southern California Edison (SCE), and San Diego Gas & Electric (SDGE) – continually raising rates for both residential and commercial customers, the impact is palpable.
The recent approval by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) for an 11% rate increase for PGE in 2024 is a clear indicator of this trend. According to a study by the California Solar and Storage Association (CALSSA), the rate of increase in electricity costs from 2013 to 2024 far exceeded the expected 3% annual rise. On average, SDGE’s rates soared by 9% every year, followed by PGE at 7% and SCE at 6% as shown on the graph below.
Utility companies, including California’s IOUs, attribute these hikes to escalating overhead costs driven by significant investments in infrastructure projects and system modernization. These increases are not just numbers on paper – they’re directly impacting businesses and households.
Communities are starting to feel the pinch, with notable pushback, such as a petition in San Diego to replace SDG&E with a non-profit utility, gaining attention in December 2023. Anticipating the rising tide of commercial electricity rates, the Revel Energy team has seen many businesses experience higher and higher costs, while helping many reduce their reliance on rates controlled by investor-owned utilities.
In their November 2023 decision, the CPUC noted that PGE has under-delivered on their investments and cost targets in the past, and to achieve what is proposed would be unprecedented – but a key step to rebuilding public trust. Investor-owned utilities have to rely on economies of scale to keep their costs low and not pass the excess onto their customers.
As a clean-energy developer with a history of aiding California businesses in reducing their electricity costs, we recognize the urgency for affordable, sustainable solutions. Our expertise lies in designing and implementing bespoke commercial solar and energy storage systems, tailored to fit the unique needs of any facility in California.
For businesses, reducing dependence on California’s investor-owned utilities is a strategic move to control and potentially lower their electricity expenditures. Our solar and energy storage solutions provide a hedge against fluctuating energy costs, offering long-term financial and environmental benefits. For businesses that continue to pay rising rates, their competitors who adapt will benefit from reduced costs as our team has seen in electricity cost case studies for SDGE and SCE commercial customers.
An increasing number of businesses and residences are turning to Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) as a viable solution. PPAs offer a way to utilize existing budgeted operating expenses to gradually finance a more sustainable electricity source. By entering into a PPA, businesses can secure solar energy at a fixed, predictable rate, often lower than the utility’s rate. This approach not only mitigates the impact of rising electricity rates but also aligns with environmental sustainability goals.
In the face of rising electricity rates in 2024, PPAs present a financially savvy and environmentally responsible option for California businesses. By locking in lower electricity rates, reducing reliance on grid-supplied power, and embracing sustainable energy solutions – businesses can not only mitigate the impact of rising costs but also position themselves as forward-thinking leaders in environmental stewardship.
The unrelenting rate hikes in California present a challenge, but also an opportunity for businesses to rethink their energy strategy. By transitioning to solar power and innovative energy storage solutions, businesses can take control of their energy costs, contribute to a greener future, and enjoy the financial benefits of sustainable energy solutions. Contact our expert team today to learn what solutions may be available to your business
Commercial grade rooftop solar is ideal for: manufacturing, warehousing, logistics, industrial, retail, hospitality buildings and more with over 10,000 sq. ft. rooftops.
Free standing carport solar generates added solar power for properties with limited rooftop space. Added benefits include shading and protection for employees vehicles.
Crucial for reducing peak demand charges. Automated to supply electricity when your panels won’t. Energy storage is ideal for businesses that incur significant peak charges.
As the popularity of electric vehicles increase, so does the demand for on-site charging. This sustainable amenity has become a parking lot fixture for competitive employers.
Corporate Business Park in Irvine, CA has created significant electricity cost savings through commercial solar installed across the 5-building business park.
See how this CPA firm saved on electricity and gained valuable tax credits through commercial solar that they used to keep cash in the businesses.
– 30K DATAPOINT ENERGY AUDIT
– CUSTOM TAILORED SYSTEM DESIGN
– COMMERCIAL GRADE
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