PG&E’s Proposed Voluntary Green Energy Program

On April 24th, 2012, PG&E submitted a proposal to state regulators for a new clean energy program that would give its electric customers an opportunity to support 100% renewable energy for an average of a few dollars a month. PG&E is proposing the “Green Option” in response to requests from customers, elected officials, and the environmental community for more ways to promote renewable energy. If approved, the Green Option would be totally voluntary, and customers could enroll and/or leave the program as they wish.

PG&E already offers some of the cleanest power in the United States. About 20% qualifies for the state’s renewable portfolio standard, while an additional 30%+ comes from sources that are free of greenhouse gas emissions.

If approved, PG&E will buy renewable energy certificates to match the portion of each participating electric customer’s energy that is not already covered by PG&E’s eligible renewable energy deliveries. These certificates represent proof that specific quantities of electricity were generated from renewable sources such as wind and solar. PG&E will take steps to certify the Green Option through Green-e Energy, a program of the non-profit Center for Resource Solutions in San Francisco. It is the leading certifier of voluntary renewable energy programs in the United States.

The Green Option will let customers support 100% renewable energy for a modest premium, similar to what other utilities charge for such voluntary programs. PG&E expects that participating residential customers will pay on average about $6.00 each month. Program costs will be borne only by customers who volunteer to participate. Customers may join or leave the program at any time.

PG&E is asking the California Public Utilities Commission to approve the Green Option by early 2013.