Article: PUC approves 'smart meters' plan.

Byline: Rick Jurgens

Jul. 20--SAN FRANCISCO -- The California Public Utilities Commission unanimously approved PG&E Corp.'s plan to spend up to $1.77 billion to upgrade its 9 million electricity and natural gas meters. The PUC action included authorization of a voluntary rate structure that offers reduced normal rates to customers who agree to pay up to five times normal rates on some hot afternoons. That program, aimed to spur conservation during hours when system-wide electricity demand peaks, could be available in some areas as early as next spring, the PUC said.

The upgrade will clear the way for fundamental changes in "how consumers use and ...

Related newspaper, magazine, and journal articles:

 
 
Newsweek Harper's Magazine The Washington Post Chicago Tribune Crain's Chicago Business PRNewswire Pediatric News The Nation Advertising Age The Economist (US) A FREE trial gives you access to over 80 million articles! Access over 6,500 publications with a FREE trial!