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Swindled

105. The Monopoly (Pacific Gas & Electric)

Dec 25, 2023
This podcast episode discusses the negligence and systemic failures of Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E), a utility company's utility company's neglected equipment ignites the deadliest wildfire in California history, the tragic story of Joe Rugoma and the Ponzi scheme of Tom Girardi, and the aftermath of the fire, including devastation and contamination.
01:17:25

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Negligence and poor maintenance by Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) led to the tragic explosion in San Bruno, California in 2010.
  • PG&E's inadequate inspections and neglect of aging equipment contributed to the severity of the devastating Camp Fire in 2018, the deadliest wildfire in California's history.

Deep dives

Negligence and lack of inspections led to the San Bruno explosion

The podcast explores the tragic explosion that occurred in San Bruno, California in 2010, caused by a natural gas pipeline owned by Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E). The disaster resulted in the destruction of homes, the loss of lives, and injuries to many. Investigations revealed that the explosion was the result of negligence on the part of PG&E, as the company had not adequately inspected or maintained the pipeline, despite known risks. The faulty pipeline and lack of inspections contributed to the severity of the explosion and subsequent fire. PG&E was later found guilty of multiple criminal violations and fined $1.6 billion.

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