#United States #California #AB 942 #Fix the Cost Shift

Fix the Cost Shift Coalition Launches Campaign

In a vital effort to address the escalating electricity bills faced by Californians, the Fix the Cost Shift coalition has officially kicked off a campaign aimed at reforming the state's outdated Net Energy Metering (NEM) program. This coalition comprises almost two million workers and businesses throughout California, uniting labor unions, business groups, and community advocates in a push for equitable energy cost reforms.

The existing NEM system, implemented in 1995, has come under fire for shifting an astounding $8.5 billion in additional costs to non-solar customers just last year. While 1.6 million rooftop solar customers benefit from these subsidies, over 10 million non-solar customers bear the financial burden. Many of these individuals belong to lower-income households, live in rented accommodations, or are part of disadvantaged communities, making the cost shift particularly unjust.

Proposed legislation, known as AB 942, seeks to modernize this outdated billing system, which would lead to considerable savings for Californians. If enacted, it is estimated that AB 942 could save up to $1.3 billion on electricity bills statewide within the next year. Over the period from 2026 to 2043, the total savings could exceed $58 billion. The coalition emphasizes that this legislation promises the largest savings of any proposed changes in this year's legislative agenda.

In conjunction with the campaign launch, advertisements have been rolled out to raise awareness about the existing cost disparity and educate Californians on how AB 942 can directly impact their utility bills. The coalition's outreach efforts aim to inform the public about the need for urgent reform and how this bill seeks to create a fairer energy market.

The Fix the Cost Shift coalition urges residents to visit Fix the Cost Shift for additional information on their mission and the implications of AB 942. By advocating for a more just system, the coalition strives to alleviate financial pressures on California households and promote sustainable energy solutions that benefit all citizens, not just a privileged few.

As California continues to grapple with diverse socio-economic challenges, this coalition's campaign represents a crucial step toward more equitable energy practices. The fight for energy reform is not just about policy; it is about ensuring that every Californian has access to affordable and fair utility pricing, regardless of their income or living situation.

While the journey toward comprehensive reform may be long, the Fix the Cost Shift coalition remains steadfast in its commitment to build a better energy framework for California's future. Community members are encouraged to engage and support these efforts as they tackle a pressing issue that affects millions.