- When did retail electric direct access begin in California?
Direct access began with the implementation of Assembly Bill 1890 in spring 1998.
- When did the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) suspend direct access to electric retail customers?
Pursuant to California Public Utilities Commission Decision D.01-09-060, the right of retail end-users (customers) to acquire direct access electric service from Energy Service Providers (ESPs) is suspended, effective September 20, 2001. The execution of any new contracts, or the entering into, or the verification of any new arrangements for direct access service pursuant to Public Utilities Code Section 366 or 366.5, after September 20, 2001, is prohibited. Accordingly, Pacific Gas and Electric Company shall not accept any direct access service requests from ESPs for any contracts executed or agreements entered into after September 20, 2001.
- Why was direct access suspended?
According to the CPUC: "The Legislature has directed this Commission to suspend the right of retail end-use customers to acquire direct access service until DWR [Department of Water Resources] no longer procures power for the retail end-users.
"Currently, the State of California through the DWR is purchasing electric energy on behalf of the utilities' existing ratepayers (except those purchasing electric energy from ESPs) with funds from the State's General Fund and an interim loan. To repay the General Fund and continue the power purchase program, state agencies are preparing to issue DWR Power Supply Revenue Bonds.
"Suspending the right to acquire direct access service will assist in issuing these bonds at investment grade, by providing DWR with a stable customer base from which to recover its costs. Furthermore, we note that the suspension of the ability to acquire direct access service will provide DWR with a stable customer base from which to recover the cost of the power it has purchased and continues to purchase."
- Which of California's utilities will be affected by the suspension?
All utilities required to offer direct access service, including Southern California Edison Company, San Diego Gas and Electric Company and Pacific Gas and Electric Company will be affected by the suspension.
- How does a customer find out if it is still eligible for direct access service?
Customers should contact their Energy Service Provider.
- If I'm currently a direct access customer, and I move to a different location, may I transfer my direct access status to my new account?
Customers should contact their Energy Service Provider.
- Are gas contracts affected by this order?
No. D.01-09-060 pertains only to electric direct access accounts.
