California has some of the highest electricity rates in the nation. Compare the major utilities to understand your options and what drives your bill.
Lowest Rates
Sacramento
~14¢/kWh
Highest Rates
San
~36¢/kWh
Total Customers
40M+
across 5 utilities
Why Are California Rates So High?
California's rates include wildfire mitigation costs, renewable energy mandates, grid modernization, and undergrounding power lines. The state's aggressive climate goals add costs but also drive solar adoption.
12–18¢/kWh
Sacramento County (municipal)
18–28¢/kWh
City of Los Angeles (municipal)
Investor-owned utilities (PG&E, SCE, SDG&E) have higher rates but more programs. Municipal utilities (LADWP, SMUD) offer lower rates but less flexibility.
Most California utilities require time-of-use rates. Peak hours (4-9 PM) cost significantly more. Shifting usage to off-peak can save 20-40%.
California's NEM 3.0 reduced solar export credits significantly. Battery storage is now essential for maximizing solar savings.
California uses "baseline" allocations based on climate zone. Coastal areas get less baseline than inland areas with extreme temperatures.
Compare electricity rates and utility providers across popular California cities. Each city guide includes rate plans, bill breakdowns, and local assistance programs.