Pacific Gas and Electric Co. (PG&E) says it has asked state regulators for permission to offer a new clean energy program that will give 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.
Under the program, PG&E would 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.
The Green Option would 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 an average of $6.00 extra 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.
