"Ratepayers Face Higher Bills as Diablo Canyon Nuclear Plant Stays Open"

PG&E has been granted approval by the state Public Utilities Commission to continue operating the Diablo Canyon nuclear plant until at least 2030, instead of terminating service in 2025 as previously planned. The decision has raised concerns about potential increases in monthly electricity bills for customers. The cost to keep the plant operating through 2030 is estimated to be $8.1 billion, which could result in an additional $11.75 per month for utility bills. PG&E believes the increase in bills could be modest or even result in a bill credit, but critics argue that the state regulatory agency has been too lenient in granting PG&E the authority to raise rates.