San Francisco is debating a purchase of Pacific Gas and Electric assets to tackle soaring electricity bills.
The mayor’s office and a coalition of local officials have drafted a plan to acquire key portions of PG&E’s service territory within the city. The proposal emerged after years of failed attempts to exit the utility’s monopoly and follows a recent spike in residential rates that pushed average monthly bills past $200. Officials say the city would need to secure financing and regulatory approval before any transaction could close.
If the city succeeds, it could gain direct control over pricing, infrastructure upgrades, and renewable‑energy integration, potentially easing the cost burden on low‑income households. Critics warn that managing a utility requires expertise the city lacks and that the financial risk could outweigh the benefits.
The plan will be presented to the Board of Supervisors in the coming weeks, where it will face a vote and a request for a detailed feasibility study before any further steps are taken.