Beware Misleading Energy "Studies"
There's little need to repeat the adage that you must take care to verify whatever you read on the Internet. A good case in point is a report issued today by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Its blasts U.S. energy policy as being thwarted by bureaucrats. It is aptly entitled: "Project No Project. Progress Denied". But it probably should be titled "Cents. No Sense: Reality Denied". Here's why.
SDG&E's PV Project: The Promise and the Peril
It took two years, but the PUC finally adopted a utility-based solar power project in San Diego. It borders upon insanity that the one city in the United States that is so blessed with sun is not leading the solar PV revolution. We've been out hustled by San Francisco, Santa Monica, Germany, Japan and countless other countries who can only dream to have San Diego's solar bounty.
SDG&E proposal to charge electric rates for different times of the day: The devil lurks in the details
SDG&E wants to start charging you more money for the electricity you use during peak hours, and reward you with lower rates for shifting your electricity use to off-peak hours ... but the devil is in the DETAILS.
"Perverse Incentives:" Why SDG&E's Montana wind farm scheme is wrong, wrong, wrong
SDG&E's plan to meet its renewable energy requirements by generating energy in Montana and selling it to Canada is more hot wind from a utility that has established a reputation for relying too much on natural gas. MORE.
Worried about the new "Smart Meters?" Participate in UCAN's MeterWatch!
By law, SDG&E must install a smart meter in your home or business in the next 18 months. Our MeterWatch project is designed to track the accuracy of these new meters, monitor customer service from SDG&E and its outsourced installers, and also track general complaints or concerns. Our MeterWatch project is under construction and we expect to have it operational very soon. But, if you send us an e-mail, we will notify you as soon as the site is ready for registration. DETAILS HERE.
Is SDG&E cooking the books to get undeserved bonuses?
Is SDG&E Cooking the books to game the California Public Utilities Commission out of bonus money for meeting green energy goals? Probably.
Sempra stock rises on news of settlement for market gaming
Yesterday California's Attorney General announced a $400 million settlement with SDG&E's holding company, Sempra, regarding allegations that it gamed the state's energy markets. UCAN's Executive Director, Michael Shames, says the amounts paid to consumers as a result of the settlement will likely be trivial. Full story.
State to offer rebates for your clunker appliances
Does your refrigerator door nearly fall off every time you open it? Does your washing machine sound like a freight train rumbling through your home? Take heart. Relief is on the way as the State of California rolls out a new appliance rebate program. Full story.
New bill makes solar power more affordable for homeowners
Solar Energy. Free energy from the sun is arguably San Diego's best source for power because photo-voltaic solar panels put energy back into the grid at precisely the moment when we need it the most - on scorching hot summer days. Now, a new law will give homeowners and small businesses an incentive for helping San Diego become energy independent. Full Story.
What SDG&E doesn't want homeowners to know: independent auditors can help customers re-take control over runaway energy use
Getting an energy audit of your home could save on your utility costs, but when UCAN asked SDG&E to post information on home energy auditors on its own web site, it refused.
It's time to go solar
Like what you see? Go ahead and show your support! UCAN is a truly independent non-profit watchdog organization, dependent on grassroots donations like yours!
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