https://www.yourcentralvalley.com/digital-enterprise/fresno-exploring-alternatives-pg-e
Two years ago, city leaders unveiled an initiative to consider becoming Fresno’s own energy provider, citing high rates and poor service from PG&E. Mayor Jerry Dyer said at the time, “PG&E customers, including the city of Fresno, have completely lost confidence in our only gas and electricity supplier.”
About a year later, both Dyer and then-City Councilmember Garry Bredefeld reiterated their stance. Dyer expressed a desire to pursue new energy options, while Bredefeld emphasized, “we’ve got to do something.”
But what came of those plans?
This week, city officials confirmed to YourCentralValley.com that despite the bold announcement more than two years ago, no formal action has been taken to move Fresno toward forming a public utility — something several other California cities have done.
In 2022, a push to hire a consultant to explore energy alternatives fizzled out. Bredefeld, now a Fresno County Supervisor, explained, “Unfortunately, we couldn’t secure enough support to move forward. As a result, no action has been taken, leaving Fresno residents — like many across California — grappling with increasing energy bills.”
Bredefeld also criticized PG&E, accusing the utility of having undue political influence.
“PG&E wields significant political influence, particularly in Sacramento, because they buy off and own politicians. That’s why they continue to get away with these unjustifiable and outrageous increases.”
— Fresno County Supervisor Garry Bredefeld
PG&E responded by defending its service and commitment to local customers.
“We continue to work with the City of Fresno to address concerns about affordability,” a company spokesperson said. “In fact, residential electric bills are lower today than they were a year ago.”
PG&E also noted that it provided nearly $10 million in financial assistance to more than 13,700 Fresno households in 2024 through its REACH program.
For now, city officials say there are no new developments regarding the creation of an alternative utility provider.
