Tom Steyer Targets PG&E as Key Adversary in California Governor Campaign Race

Tom Steyer Targets PG&E in California Governor Race Over Energy Costs

Tom Steyer has launched a strong campaign move by making Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) the central target of his bid for California governor. His ads sharply criticize California’s soaring electricity prices and the monopolistic power held by PG&E and other major utilities.

Steyer’s new statewide ad campaign bluntly states, “Big energy companies really piss me off,” highlighting that California users face the nation’s second-highest electricity rates. The campaign calls for breaking up utility monopolies to bring down these costs, featuring an emphatic “BUST MONOPOLIES” graphic.

Steyer, a former hedge fund manager turned activist, previously ran for president focusing on climate change. Now, he positions himself as an anti-billionaire candidate tackling cost-of-living crises, including energy affordability. No clear front-runner has emerged in the governor’s race so far.

To back his claims, Steyer sent a letter to the California Public Utilities Commission urging stricter oversight of utilities. He demands lower financial returns for the companies, enhanced review of project cost-effectiveness, and enforcement of deadlines for adding solar and storage to the grid.

PG&E pushed back, with spokesperson Lynsey Paulo stating the utility delivers energy “at lowest possible cost” and noted a $12 average monthly residential bill decrease over the last two years. Southern California Edison echoed this, emphasizing efforts to balance clean energy goals with keeping bills manageable.

Steyer’s energy proposals have won key endorsements signaling political support: Representative Ro Khanna and State Senator Henry Stern both back his call for climate-friendly, cost-saving reforms. Stern is known for advocating policies aligned with clean energy and consumer protection.

Key elements of Steyer’s campaign strategy include:

1. Public denunciation of PG&E and major utilities as monopolies driving up costs
2. Advocacy for regulatory changes to reduce utilities’ profit margins
3. Focus on accelerating renewable energy integration to lower long-term expenses

With rising power costs impacting millions, Steyer’s focus on PG&E taps into widespread frustration. The unfolding governor’s race will likely see more scrutiny on California’s utility giants as candidates debate how to ensure affordable, sustainable energy access.