Stockton changes power provider to save residents money

In San Joaquin County, California, the cities of Stockton and Lathrop have recently made a significant decision regarding their energy supply. They opted to switch their power provider to Ava Energy for over 120,000 accounts in an effort to save costs for residents and businesses. This change is expected to result in approximately a five percent reduction in monthly energy bills. For many families, every savings matters, particularly for those such as single mothers facing high monthly utility expenses due to medical needs. Ava Energy has been in discussions with Stockton for nearly five years before this decision was finalized. The new power provider focuses on sourcing energy from renewable sources at lower rates than the current provider, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E). Although PG&E will continue to manage the delivery of power for Ava, customers will see a clear indicator on their bills stating that Ava Energy is the source. The decision was influenced by a broader shift towards greater local control over energy resources. Stockton's Mayor, Christina Fugazi, highlighted the significance of local governance, noting that residents will have a say in how their energy needs are met, unlike PG&E, which is governed by a board with shareholders. The move aligns with California's regulatory environment, which has increasingly focused on empowering municipalities to manage their energy supplies more effectively. The new initiative has been welcomed by many community members, particularly those who have historically experienced issues with their energy billing and services. As the city prepares for this significant transition, it is also providing options for residents to opt out if they prefer to stick with PG&E. Overall, this shift represents a notable change in how energy is supplied to tens of thousands of residents in the Stockton and Lathrop area, marking a new chapter in local energy management and sustainability efforts.