Key Public Event to end Utility Contol of Energy Effiency

KEY PUBLIC EVENT
TO END UTILITY CONTROL OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Here\'s your chance to tell the Calif. Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) what you think:

Should utilities control energy efficiency funds? Or do they have a
fundamental conflict of interest with energy efficiency?
Should these funds be administered by an independent body that is
concerned about the public interest rather than utility profits?

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) is holding a 2-day workshop
Wed-Thurs. 3/17-18 9am-4pm at 505 Van Ness, Hearing Rm.A
(kitty-korner behind SF City Hall)
Subject: Who should be overall \"administrator\" of energy efficiency in California?
THE WORKSHOP IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Women\'s Energy Matters is encouraging a community presence in the hearing room, to let the CPUC know how you feel about utility control of energy efficiency.
Come for an hour or stay all day.
We also invite you to attend a Press Conference Wed. 3/17 at 12:30 on CPUC steps.

This workshop kicks off a three-month process that will determine whether utilities will still be in the driver\'s seat, or whether there will be genuine independent oversight that will make sure we get the most energy savings - and the most bill reductions - for the \"Public Goods\" money we pay for energy efficiency.

Statewide, there is about $250 million a year for energy efficiency. In an experimental program started by CPUC Commissioner Loretta Lynch, non-utility programs have received 20% of the funds for the last year and a half. These independent non-utility energy efficiency providers are running rings around the utilities. Nevertheless, the utilities are trying desperately to regain control of all the funds.

The CPUC is taking a serious look at the issue and we have a good chance of getting an independent administrator - but public support will be crucial. PLEASE ATTEND THE WORKSHOP AND/OR PRESS CONFERENCE IF YOU CAN. And please plan to participate by contacting Commissioners over the next few months. WEM will be sending a series of alerts, background information and sample letters. We ask you to circulate this information and help get others involved.

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For more information, please contact:

Barbara George * 415-330-9844 * bgwem@igc.org
Women\'s Energy Matters, P.O. Box 883723, San Francisco CA 94188-3723
DONATIONS TO SUPPORT WEM\'S WORK ARE NEEDED & APPRECIATED!