Government Energy Policy, Business and Technology

California PUC proposes guidelines for 'last resort' de-energizations as wildfire season looms

Utility Dive: The proposed decision clarifies that utilities must exhaust other options before de-energizing power lines, because the impacts can be extreme, widespread and dangerous. Pacific Gas & Electric last week revealed that its PSPS plan could mean millions in San Francisco lose power in the event it is forced to de-energize certain transmission lines — despite little wildfire danger to the city.

In addition to the general inconvenience of a power outage, the regulators' order notes critical concerns with potential shut-offs including: public safety issues related to lighting and street signals, wells for pumping water, power to police and fire facilities, telecommunications and home medical devices.

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