Beam me to Planet Gore !
Posted on 04/11/2008 9:45:57 AM PDT by NormsRevenge
Are you willing to pay 12 to 30 cents more a month on your utility bill for an institute coordinating energy and climate change technology research across the state?
Actually, you don't have a choice. The California Public Utilities Commission on Thursday unanimously approved the $600 million California Institute for Climate Solutions, which will be paid for by money from ratepayers' monthly electric bills, to the tune of $60 million a year.
The institute aims to speed up research into cutting greenhouse gas emissions, such as auto exhaust, that contribute to pollution. This work is already under way at laboratories as well as universities such as University of California, Berkeley, and Stanford. The idea is that the institute will help the various entities work together.
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger applauded the decision, saying it was another important step toward battling global warming and "will bring together the state's pre-eminent colleges, universities and laboratories to fight climate change."
Commission representatives Thursday estimated the additional charge to utility customers at 12 to 30 cents a month.
"Electric bills are becoming blank checks," said Mark Toney, executive director of San Francisco-based consumer advocacy group The Utility Reform Network. Toney decried the decision to fund the institute via utility bills, while lauding the goal of reducing global warming.
PG&E customers will see the extra charges on their bills, as well as customers of Southern California Edison and San Diego Gas & Electric. Utilities regulated by the commission will collect $60 million a year from customers for 10 years to fund the program. The institute's governing board will be co-chaired by Michael Peevey, the current president of the commission, who championed the idea.
"He's going to be the head mucky-muck of this institute on our dime — on our electric bills," said Mindy Spatt of TURN.
The institute is required to secure an equal amount in matching funds to the $600 million in ratepayer fees that initially fund it.
My electric bill here in Los Angeles is remarkably low. A sixth of what it was in Illinois. But my gas bill is appalling. Sigh. I swear, I live like a Luddite already, no TV in my house, no internet (I’m at work right now), using a fireplace when I can... cost of living is pretty extravagant here.
Call me cynical but anytime I see “12 to 30 cents more a month” it really ends up being much much more than that after fees and taxes are added.
Another case of taxation without representation - poobahs on high simply decree. Grrrr....
"Show me just what Mohammed brought that was new, and there you will find things only evil and inhuman, such as his command to spread by the sword the faith he preached." - Manuel II Palelologus
Wowsers!!! Mexifornians should feel spEEEEEEE-shul!!!!
How much does the position of “head mucky-muck” pay? And all the little “mucks”? Sounds like create a job.
The answer is always the same: turn out the lights and leave the car in the driveway.
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