Senator Feinstein Renews Call For
Investigation Into Power Crisis
August 3, 2000

San Francisco - U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today renewed her call for an investigation into the rising cost of electricity in San Diego and blackouts in other areas of the California.

“The soaring price of electricity in San Diego and the inability of the California’s power system to meet the demand for energy demonstrate that action needs to be taken,” Senator Feinstein said. “It is clear that a full inquiry is warranted to ensure that all is being done to protect consumers and to adequately supply power to the State.”

Senator Feinstein said she supported the recommendation of the President of the California Public Utility Commission for a full-scale investigation by the California Attorney General of the energy pricing situation in San Diego.

On July 26, 2000, Senator Feinstein wrote President Clinton asking that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) probe the situation. And today, FERC’s Chairman James J. Hoecker announced that the agency has begun an investigation of electric bulk power markets to determine whether they are working efficiently.

Also, faced with the possibility of a first-ever Stage Three energy emergency, Feinstein urged all Californians to reduce their energy usage wherever possible during peak hours.

Senator Feinstein said that the state’s power crisis also demonstrates the need for California to increase energy generation through the development of additional power plants and to decrease demand through programs that promote energy efficiency.

“I applaud Governor Davis’ action today to stabilize energy prices, reduce demand and cut bureaucracy in the licensing process,” Feinstein continued. “The only way that California will avert future energy crises is to bring more capacity online. This action ensures that there is no undo delay in the review and approval of new power plants.”