Focusing On Fines For PG&E

Sonora, CA —  California regulators have begun proceedings to contemplate  fines against Pacific Gas & Electric Co. for its role in a devastating series of 2017 wildfires.

The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) made that decision on Thursday. In a statement, the agencies Commissioner Clifford Rechtschaffen claimed that the utility’s violations during the fire siege “are extensive and disturbing.”

In an effort to prevent future fire disasters, the PUC also ordered the company to create a mobile application so the public can report problems such as downed power poles.

PG&E equipment has been blamed for starting some of California’s largest and deadliest recent blazes. In January, the utility filed for bankruptcy as it faces potentially billions of dollars in liability.

PG&E says it is committed to reducing wildfire risk, helping fire-ravaged communities to recover, and committed to fully cooperating with the PUC investigation.