California CPUC extends utility disconnection moratorium amid ongoing COVID-19 debt relief efforts

The San Francisco City Council meeting on July 4, 2025, spotlighted the Community Choice Aggregation Activities Report, with a focus on the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on utility services. Executive Director Mike Himes of the Clean Power SF program presented key updates, emphasizing the stability of customer enrollment despite economic challenges.

Himes acknowledged the significant hardships faced by residents, noting an increase in bill payment delinquencies. He highlighted the proactive measures taken by the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) to protect customers from utility shutoffs, including the suspension of disconnections for nonpayment, a policy that has been in place since March 2020 and recently extended through March 2022.

The meeting also addressed the California Public Utilities Commission's (CPUC) efforts to manage COVID-19 related utility debt, which has reached approximately $1 billion statewide. Himes reported that the CPUC has extended the disconnection moratorium through September 30, 2021, and introduced a new payment plan for residential customers with overdue bills. This plan will automatically enroll customers in a 24-month repayment program, ensuring continued protection from disconnections as long as they maintain their payment schedule.

Himes expressed optimism about future developments, anticipating further discussions on debt forgiveness for low-income customers as the CPUC continues to address the ongoing financial fallout from the pandemic. The meeting underscored the city's commitment to supporting its residents during these challenging times, with a clear focus on maintaining essential utility services.