PG&E to Ramp Up Spending Post-Dixie Fire

Pacific Gas & Electric Co., also known as PG&E, plans to increase its spending budget in 2022 for its wildfire prevention fund. This comes after causing the second-largest fire in the history of California. Their 2022 Wildfire Mitigation Plan (WMP) will expand spending from $4.9 billion to almost $6 billion in hopes of reducing risk while combating climate change and drought.

Wildfire Mitigation Plan Breakdown

Stated within their WMP, PG&E plans to burry over 10,000 miles worth of distribution lines in areas that are at higher risk of fires. They also plan to expand Enhanced Powerline Safety Settings (EPSS) to all areas at high risk of fire. These safety settings are designed to shut off power if an object comes into contact with any distribution lines.

PG&E also plans to apply these new practices in the upcoming months:

Deploy equipment to mitigate wildlife impacts and reduce wildfire ignitions.
Practice up-to-date and aggressive vegetation management practices.
Perform more detailed & enhanced inspections.
Utilize Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) protocols.

What This Means For Californians

According to a report done by the Sacramento Bee, as proposed in the rate case, customers can expect a 5% increase in their bills throughout 2026. Outside of price, California has been battling an ongoing 22-year drought, in which Californians should brace for another potentially dangerous wildfire season.

To help prepare for wildfires this upcoming dry season, Ready, a national public service campaign, has put together a few resources to help residents prepare and deal with the aftermath of a wildfire.

We Want to Help

PG&E has been responsible for over 1,500 fires, and they deserve to be held liable for their negligence. If you have been affected by the Dixie Fire, we ask you to reach out to our Sacramento firm today. With having recovered over $1 billion for our clients through legal services, we have the experience, resources, and compassion to take on the largest utility in the state on your behalf. You shouldn’t have to do this on your own—we’re here to help you.

Call us at (916) 520-6639 or visit our website to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.