[Bob]

How does Tom intend on lowering electric rates that are set by private companies?

Electric rates are controlled by the Public Utilities Commission, not the companies. Tom has said that he will stipulate to the conflict of interest of a Davis appointee during the negotiations for our current long-term (and grossly overpriced) contracts. Voiding those contracts and re-negotiating them will allow the PUC to reduce rates.

[kingu]

Electric rates are controlled by the Public Utilities Commission, not the companies. Tom has said that he will stipulate to the conflict of interest of a Davis appointee during the negotiations for our current long-term (and grossly overpriced) contracts. Voiding those contracts and re-negotiating them will allow the PUC to reduce rates.

Tom should file that lawsuit right now instead of waiting until he is Governor, since as a ratepaying citizen, he is a party to that contract. The PUC is unable to set rates, never has been able to. The PUC is able to approve rates proposed by electric companies and able to set temporary rebates or increases. They can not by fiat raise or lower electrical rates.