"California Regulators Consider Overhauling Utility Billing to Ease Summer Spikes"

California regulators have proposed a new billing structure for electricity, aiming to relieve summer spikes in power bills. The plan includes a fixed charge of $24.15 per month for most customers, with lower rates for low-income assistance programs and deed-restricted affordable housing. Peak hour electricity rates for the state's big three utilities would decrease by 8% to 9.8%, potentially saving customers money during hot summer months. However, some lawmakers and consumer advocates are concerned about the potential impact on overall bills and energy conservation, while others see it as a step towards making utility bills more affordable.