Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) and the State of California find themselves in a standoff over a proposal to bury powerlines in high-fire-risk areas throughout the state.

PG&E's plan involves burying 2,100 miles of powerlines underground by 2026, a move intended to reduce the risk of wildfires. This proposal garnered support from entities like the Sonora City Council, especially in light of recent Enhanced Powerline Safety Setting shutoffs, which have been used when objects like falling branches pose a threat to power lines.

However, the California Public Utilities Commission, whose members are appointed by the Governor, has yet to give the plan the green light. Their hesitation primarily stems from the anticipated cost of $5.9 billion, which would eventually be borne by customers. Notably, PG&E rates in California are already among the highest in the country.

The state has suggested an alternative approach, calling for the installation of protective covers over powerlines, which would be quicker to implement. PG&E opposes this option, citing that burying the lines underground would reduce fire risk by a substantial 99%, while the protective covers would only yield a 62% reduction.

The decision is further complicated by factors such as rising fire insurance costs and potential effects on the marketplace. PG&E will make their case for underground lines at an upcoming California Public Utilities Commission meeting, with the regulators set to make a final decision next month. If approved, the plan to bury 2,100 miles of powerlines will pave the way for further underground expansion in the coming decade.

Source: mymotherlode.com